Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-new fourth-generation C-Class sedan which is a huge leap from the previous generation models. The sedan has increased dimensions and weighs lesser in comparison to the outgoing car. This car bears the codename W205 and will officially debut at the 2013 Detroit Motor Show. The W205 is heavily influenced by the design language incorporated in the latest Mercedes S-Class. The C-Class also displays a hint of the smaller CLA on the side profile. This car is no more sold as the entry-level offering from the German automaker. It has the A-Class, B-Class and the CLA models positioned below and the E-Class positioned above. Mercedes-Benz has increased the dimensions of the car in-line with its rivals, the BMW 3-series and Audi A4.
The Mercedes C-Class based on the MRA (Mercedes Rearwheel Architecture) has grown by 95 mm in length measuring 4686 mm overall and 40 mm in width measuring 1810 mm overall. The wheelbase has also been increased by 80 mm to measure 2840 mm. This increase in dimensions of the car has resulted in increased cabin space at the front and rear of the car. The boot capacity has also been marginally increased by 5 litres to 480 litres. The new C-Class has shed nearly 100 kgs of weight owing to the optimum usage of aluminium hybrid body which is lighter than the conventional steel body. The fuel efficiency of the car as a result is slated to increase by 20 percent.
The interiors of the fourth generation Mercedes C-Class is similar to the CLA while being extremely stylish and of high quality. The steering gets a flat bottom making it appear more premium while a touchpad interface is also on offer. The touchpad interface can be used for the infotainment system and a BMW-like heads-up display that displays speed and navigation related information is also offered. However, this feature will be optional. The exteriors of the vehicle is in line with its bigger siblings. The headlamps look similar to the new E-Class while the wide front grille is derived from the S-Class. Also, the front bumper with big dams is AMG styled. The C-Class also gets optional Airmatic suspension in this new-generation model.
The 2015 Mercedes C-Class will be offered with 3 engine options including one diesel and two petrols. The range starts with the C180 which gets a 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 156 BHP of power and 250 Nm of torque. The C200 will be a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 184 BHP of power and 300 Nm of torque. The diesel option is the C220 BlueTec that comes with a 2.1-litre diesel engine producing 170 BHP of and 400 Nm of torque. The gearbox options include a 6-speed manual and 7G-Tronic Plus Automatic. However, the engine choices offered will be increased with more 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines including a hybrid motor. Also, a new 9-speed automatic transmission vehicle will be on offer.
The safety features on the new C-Class is expected to blow away rivals. The company offers Stereo Multi Purpose Camera (SMPC), Sensor Fusion technology, Attention Assist feature, Advanced Active Lane Keeping Assist, Brake Assist BAS PLUS, Active Park Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus amongst a host of safety features. The W205 Mercedes C-Class will make its India debut at the 2014 Auto Expo. The price tag is expected to be a tad premium in comparison to its predecessor.
