By now, we have all come to realize that not all hybrids are created equal. Some hybrid drivetrains are designed to maximize fuel mileage, while some cater to the performance crowd. Hybrids are available or are being designed for everything from basic transportation to Sport Utility Vehicles and Luxury cars and even sports cars. So, I was not all that surprised to read that Mercedes has plans for a hybrid version of their range-topper, the S Class sedan. But, I found it a bit odd that the car was to use a small 2.2 liter four-cylinder engine. Now, this engine is a twin turbo Bluetec diesel, but still, the idea of a four cylinder extra large, extra heavy luxury sedan must be met with some surprise, right? Anyway, the drivetrain is apparently capable of hitting 35 miles per gallon, which is very good for a vehicle this size, and it should be capable of even better figures in the smaller E Class and C Class vehicles that will inherit the engine later as well. No word yet on whether these vehicles will make it over to the U.S. or what they will cost.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Just -Auto reports that based information it has gleaned from one of its European sources, it appears that Mercedes-Benz could have a Bluetec hybrid version of its M-Class SUV on sale in the UK within two years. The system would likely combine a 3.2L six-cylinder Bluetec diesel with the 2-Mode hybrid system developed jointly with BMW and General Motors, with fuel economy in the neighborhood of 40 mpg and C02 emissions under 200g/km. This would help inoculate the Mercedes SUV from the ill will generally shown toward vehicles of its type in recent years. The added cost of the system, according to Just-Auto, would be easier to pass through to customers, as well, since the M-Class is already a premium-priced vehicle to begin with. For its part, Mercedes would not confirm that any plans for a green powertrain like this are in place.

[Source: Just-Auto (sub req'd)]