cookstar

Been reading around the net since 2010 that MB is working on a 9 speed that will debut in 2014 or 2015 on the S class and C class, another article posted this week seems to sort of confirm this as well, looks like MB is catching up.

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...lass-spy-shots

blittle

8 or 9 speeds ...... at that point I would think you are approaching the concept of the CVT ( constantly variable transmission ) used in some vehicles.

Billy22Bob

Yes - I've just been reading about the CVT's used in the B200's and some later model A Class. Although they are still refered to as 7-speed.

Were they the guinea pig for the 8-9 speeds?

KCaudell

I had conversation with a recently retired Chrysler Power/Drive engineer and he said 9 speed is being released.

I'd look for 9.

K

cookstar

MB already has the 9 speed in Germany on the E-class, it will debut on the 2015 CLS in USA.

ogre.

Not a guinea pig for the 8-9 speeds. Current B-Class and A-Class no longer use a CVT, but instead a 7 speed dual clutch automated manual. Older A and B class used a CVT but this technology is no longer in production with Mercedes.

The 7G-DCT gearbox is targeted to front drive, transverse engine platforms.

The new 9G-Tronic 9 speed automatic gearbox is designed for longitudinal engine mount models like the GL and can be used in rear and four wheel drive models.

Mercedes has already announced that the 9G-Tronic will be adopted generally across the range and with up to 1,000Nm of torque and already in use with the 3 litre diesel as used in the GL there is nothing to stop it being introduced at any time. The 9G-Tronic was introduced into the current e-class outside of a model refresh so it could happen with other models.