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When off the rack just won't do

Some people view AMG as the "crème de la crème" of Mercedes-Benz. Others prefer a more individualized approach. For them, Mercedes-Benz has the combination of the AMG Performance Studio and designo.

In an effort to appeal to customers with very special wishes, Mercedes-Benz started the AMG Performance Studio. AMG high performance vehicles are available worldwide through the normal Mercedes-Benz sales channels. The Performance Studio develops and produces "special" AMG vehicles in exclusive, limited quantities. These vehicles are offered as the Signature Series, Black Series and Editions. These unique special models stand out by virtue of their outstanding handling, motorsport performance, technical and visual distinctiveness and exclusive equipment features, depending on the vehicle type.

The AMG Performance Studio and designo are bywords for exclusive style, superb individuality and uncompromising sportiness. This offering allows Mercedes-Benz customers to choose from a wide range of exclusive equipment and appointments. Customers can use these non-traditional options to create a true one of a kind vehicle.

From the time the AMG Performance Studio opened its doors in Affalterbach in 2006, the goal has always been the same - to meet the needs of the most discerning customer's requirements. The newly developed AMG S-Class trim elements in black piano lacquer/carbon fiber are a good example. In this case, the dashboard and the door trim are adorned with dazzling black wood trim, while both the front center console and the folding rear armrest are trimmed in genuine carbon fiber. Using this high-grade material mix in the S63 or S65 creates a touch that you may not see in another S-Class.

But wait, there's more. That was just one trim option. With designo, the customer can choose from six different exclusive trim options: natural maple grain and matt natural oak grain as well as two high-sheen piano lacquer trim options in black or champagne white. There are also unique designo stone trim elements made from genuine granite. These are available in two versions for the S-Class: Labrador blue pearl and black Star Galaxy. To highlight the exclusivity of the designo trim elements, customers can adorn the rear air conditioning unit cover with handmade designo lettering in 925 sterling silver. If so inclined, designo lettering in solid 18-carat gold is also available for that same rear air conditioning unit cover. There are ten different designo paint finishes that can be combined with ten different designo aniline leather appointments. Those colors can be used on any of four natural leather variants. For wheels, the Performance Studio can offer mirror finished AMG forged wheels with made to order colors.

In addition to paint finishes, leather colors, leather textures, and trim options, designo has other components. The designo package also includes a black roof liner in nappa leather with special fluting, and a matching designo wood/leather steering wheel. The AMG Performance Studio: When off the rack just won't do.

© 2009 Marcus Blair Fitzhugh

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