Mercedes-Benz has today unveiled its brand new C-Class Saloon.
Growing 95 millimetres in length and 80 mm in width to 4686 mm and 1810 mm respectively, and with an 80 mm increase in the wheelbase to 2840 mm compared with its predecessor, the 2014 C-Class also enjoys a larger boot capacity of 480 litres. The utilization of an aluminium hybrid body means an impressive 100 kg is cut from the C-Class’ weight resulting in fuel consumption reductions of up to 20 percent.
Looking like a shrunken E-Class, it features a more streamlined look than the outgoing model – and a slippery drag coefficient as low as 0.24 – gaining a sportier fascia with large intakes and more sculpted flanks, while the rear is extremely clean with integrated tailpipes and LED-infused tail-lights. H7 halogen headlamps as standard, with LED units available as an option.
Moving inside, the cabin gets new seats and trim materials from aluminium or wood, five circular air vents within the dashboard and a new head-up display, while the touchpad in the handrest provides all the head-unit functions using finger gestures. The centrally positioned display is the main feature across the centre console – with a screen diagonal of 17.78 cm, or 21.33 cm if COMAND Online is specified. A first for vehicles in this segment is the option of air suspension. The AIRMATIC system features continuous variable damping, which allows the driver to choose between “Comfort”, “ECO”, “Sport” and “Sport+” modes depending on conditions.
Notable options include DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, while the Enhanced Active Lane Keeping Assist can now also prevent the vehicle from unintentionally drifting out of lane when broken lane markings apply.
Three engines will be offered at launch, starting with the C 220 BlueTEC, which uses a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder diesel producing 125 kW (170 hp) and 400 Nm of torque. With a 0-100 km/h time of in 8.1 seconds fuel consumption is just 4l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 103 g/km. The C 180 model follows, with a 1.6-litre petrol engine developing 115 kW (156 hp) and 250 Nm allowing 100 km/h to arrive in 8.2 seconds and fuel consumption of 5l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 116 g/km.
finally, the C 200 is propelled by a 2.0-litre delivering 135 kW (184 hp) and 300 Nm of torque with a 0-100 km/h time of 7.5 seconds and consumption of 5.3l/100 km, CO2 emission work out at 123 g/km. Further engine options will be added later next year, including the C 300 BlueTEC HYBRID with a four-cylinder diesel engine and electric motor returning 3.9/100 km.
With the order books already open, pricing in Germany starts at €33,558 for the C 180 model, €36,414 for the C 200 and €38,675 for the C 220 BlueTEC.
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