BusinessWeek Logo
Mercedes-Benz F 700

The new concept treads lightly, despite its grand dimensions

Mercedes-Benz F 700

By Stuart Schwartzapfel

Among the production and concept vehicles making a debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show was one from Mercedes-Benz (DAI), dubbed the F 700. Meant to showcase a future Mercedes luxury-touring sedan, the F 700 Concept is significant for a number of reasons.

First, its size: At roughly 203 inches, the F 700 is only about 1.5 feet shorter than Chevy's gargantuan Suburban sport-utility vehicle. This tall drink of water from Stuttgart, with its innovative and spacious interior design, provides an extremely comfortable mode of travel. Aiding in this ride quality is the innovative Pre-Scan suspension system—a world first, according to Mercedes—which anticipates uneven road conditions and adjusts suspension damping accordingly.

The 1.8-liter, four-cylinder DieSotto motor combines the high power of the spark-ignition engine with the torque and great fuel economy of a diesel. According to Mercedes, this engine attains the performance level of the current S-Class' base V6 engine despite its four-cylinder dimensions. But its CO2 emissions—127 g/km—result in a fuel economy of 44.3 mpg, extremely low for a vehicle of this class—and way better than the S-Class.

Up front, the concept shares pedigree with the squat, wide stance seen in the R-Class GST. From the side, it looks like a more sculpted interpretation of the CLS-Class' low-profile silhouette. The biggest departure in side profile is in the unique intersection of the A-pillar (a structural support that hugs a portion of the windshield) and the pronounced side character line. Just below the side-view mirror, a zigzag-shaped kink in the side character line transitions into the front fender. This is a surface transition that you want to run your fingers along. Unique design details like this contribute to the F 700's decidedly forward-thinking aesthetic.

The Verdict: A bright future.

Schwartzapfel, a certified car freak, has studied the automotive marketplace and worked as an advertising/marketing strategist for major manufacturers. He does not write about any car brands for which he currently works.