Well it looks like the Mercedes GLA is bringing a new tyre type (judging by the trailer) but I wonder if it's going to be usable on other karts or bikes. I originally had a feeling that the Mercs wouldn't be able to use other tyre types either, but 2 of them in the trailer are using the current off-Road type, so I guess not. A Mercedes with button or cushion tyres would be pretty funny.
Definitely up for some races tonight, yeah. Be nice to get some more MK8 in before it becomes forever tarnished with Mercs!
You can tell when it happens as the character will be doing its hit animation/the kart will be spinning, but their forward momentum is completely unaffected. It looks ridiculous. I've literally green shelled someone that was just ahead of me, right before the finish line, and watched on as they still cross the line before me, all while their character is spazzing out.