Mercedes Launches Lighter, More Efficient C-Class

MercedesMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
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has unveiled the fifth-generation C-ClassMercedes-Benz C-Class 5Germany, 2014 > present95 versions
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, and it will be on sale in the first half of 2014 in Europe. The car gets an all-new platform with better aerodynamics, new engines and 220lb (100kg) of weight savings.

"The new C-Class embodies Mercedes-Benz's claim 'The best or nothing' in uncompromising style. This is immediately apparent when encountering our new saloon for the first time, as it creates the impression that one is sitting in a higher class of automobile. I am sure that our customers will be delighted by the high-class appeal and agility of the new C-Class,” said Ola Källenius, head of sales and marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars.

It is launching with three engine options but more on are the way

© photo courtesy of: Mercedes-Benz

The styling of the latest C-Class is only a slight evolution of the previous generation. The latest car has a 80mm longer wheelbase at 2840mm (111.8in). It is also 95mm (3.74in) longer and 40mm (1.575in) wider than the previous generation. The increase in size translates to more cargo capacity at 480 liters (16.95 cubic feet).

The styling changes are slight, but Mercedes says that the car is supposed to be minimalist. The front is available with two grills. The standard grill has a central Mercedes star, and the Exclusive trim level gets a changed grill with the Mercedes star on the hood. Both versions feature an active radiator grill that closes at high speed to improve aerodynamics. LED running lights and LED taillights are standard, and full LED headlights are optional. In profile, the new C-Class features a long hood with short overhangs and passenger compartment set back.

The C-Class uses a new chassis made predominantly of aluminum that is 70kg (154lb) lighter that the previous generation. The suspension is also completely new. The front has a new four-link setup, which Mercedes claims is more stable. The rear gets an updated five-link layout. It is offered in four setups as well – comfort, a mix of comfort and sport, sports suspension lowered by 15mm and a full air suspension.

The look of the new C-Class is not significantly different from the previous generation

© photo courtesy of: Mercedes-Benz

The new C-Class launches with three, four-cylinder engines. The C220 BlueTECMercedes-Benz C 220 BlueT...Germany, 2014 > present is a 2.1-liter diesel with 168hp (170ps) and 295lb-ft (400Nm). It takes 8.1 seconds to reach 100km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.0l/100km, and it is rated at 103g/km of CO2 emissions. The basic petrol engine comes in the C180 with a 1.6-liter engine with 154hp (156ps) and 184lb-ft (250Nm). It takes 8.2 seconds to get to 100km/h. It is rated at 5.0l/100km fuel consumption and 116g/km of CO2 emissions. The C200 uses a 2.0-liter engine with 181hp (184ps) and 221lb-ft (300Nm). It takes 7.5 seconds to reach 100km/h, and it is rated at 5.3l/100km fuel economy with 123g/km of CO2 emissions.

All engines are available with either a six-speed transmission or a seven-speed automatic. All of them come standard with start/stop.

More engines, including a hybrid, will be added later.

Mercedes says that its sports car models inspired the interior of the new C-Class. It features a one-piece center console that sweeps down from the dashboard to the armrests between the seats. The infotainment display is available in 7in on standard cars or 8.4in if the COMAND Online system is specified, and it appears to be floating in the center console. It is controlled through a touchpad on the center tunnel. The interior is now available with a new head-up display that displays vehicle speed, speed limits and navigation instructions.

The C180 will start at €33,558; the C200 will start at €36,414 and the C220 BlueTEC will start at €38,675 – all prices include 19% German VAT. Orders are open now. It is offered in Avantgarde, Exclusive and AMG trim levels.