The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been launched here with an entry level price of €37,950 ex-works for the petrol versions, and just €200 more for the starting price in the diesel engined line-up.
And what a super job Mercedes-Benz has done in creating a car that in my opinion successfully bridges the appeal of traditionally older buyers with that of affluent younger motorists, that have been paying close attention to the likes of their popular CLA. A half hour drive in an AMG version convinced me that it has also made great strides in drivability. After styling and good specification/features, performance and handling are what capture the buyers in this segment.
From a great driving position, you feel that you’re actually driving a bigger car. It handles much better than the out-going model which lagged behind the 3-Series in that department. That has been addressed in the new C-Class and combined with a choice of ride comfort levels depending on your version choice, there is a version to suit most buyer’s palates.
When fully available here, the new C-Class line-up will consist of four petrol engines and five diesel engine versions. Petrol versions will include the C180, C200, C250 and C300 models. Meanwhile, the diesel versions will include the C180, C200, C220, C250 BlueTEC models and a C300 Diesel Hybrid. It will be a comprehensive offering from a model range that accounts for one in every five Mercedes-Benz cars sold in Ireland.
First to arrive is a C220 CDI diesel-powered 2.2-litre, 170 bhp version at €43,300. It features impressive figures that feed in to owner’s pockets and minimise the environmental impact, thanks to a 100kg reduction in weight. And thanks also to a drag coefficient of 0.24 Cd value (basically a lower aerodynamic or hydrodynamic drag), this C-Class emits 103 g/km CO2 (Carbon Dioxide emissions), which helps with a promised fuel consumption return of 4 litres/100km (or 71 mpg) for ideal driving conditions. This is on average an impressive 20 per cent lower than the previous similar version. Annual road tax is just €190 per annum.
With it come two petrol-powered versions – a C180 1.6-litre, 156 bhp model at €37,750 with 116g/km C02 and 5.0 litres/100km (56 mpg) and annual road tax of €200 and a C200 2.0-litre, 184 bhp version at €39,500 whose equivalent features are 123g/km CO2, 5.3-litres/100km (53 mpg) fuel consumption and annual road tax of €270. All of the remaining models, including a C300 Hybrid, will arrive in September.
In appearance, the C-Class has well-balanced proportions and smooth, contoured bodylines that give it a gracefulness in keeping with the character of a Mercedes-Benz. It carries a very nice mix of the gracefulness of the new S-Class, the presence of the E-Class, combined with the dynamism of the CLA.
On the outside, and within its luxurious, ultra modern interior, Its long bonnet, short overhangs and set back passenger compartment reveals a vehicle one step up in size from its predecessor. This manifest itself in extra roominess that comes from a 80mm longer wheelbase, 95mm longer body and 40mm wider frame to make rear seat travel more comfortable. Boot capacity is 480 litres.
Three design and equipment lines are offered. There is an ‘Avantgarde’ version with grille-inset star aimed at younger buyers; an ‘Exclusive’ version with a distinctive bonnet-mounted standing star aimed at the more conventional buyer; and an ‘AMG’ line targeting the sportier buyer.
The C-Class is well endowed with high-tech items, which it says should satisfy the needs of a younger, internet-active generation. Features include a 7-inch infotainment display, interactive touchpad and apps that give the driver online access to all forms of route planning, guidance, weather and traffic information. And watch out for the introduction of Apple’s new CarPlay system in C-Class by this year-end.
Another new feature is a ‘head-up’ display system that can project data directly on to the windscreen. For situations like driving in tunnels etc, it has an air panel mechanism that closes the air flap to prevent pollutants entering the passenger compartment.
Reaping the benefits of technology introduced in the new S-Class, its many optionally-available features include new ambient lighting with 3 colours and 5 dimming levels, an ‘air balance’ package that can ‘perfume’ the interior to one’s liking, a Burmester ‘feel-good’ surround sound system comprising 13 high-performance speakers configured specifically for the vehicle and fully automatic ‘hand-free’ access that opens and closes the boot lid with a gentle toe tap.
Transmission is 6-speed manual or 7G automatic. Permanent all-wheel drive is also available. A new suspension system can be adjusted electronically with air suspension on front and rear axles is also available as an option.
Safety elements include the acclaimed ‘Attention Assist’ drowsiness detection system and ‘Collision Prevention Assist’, an adaptive braking system that activates automatically if the driver fails to respond to danger ahead. Additional offerings include systems to control distance from the vehicle in front, lane keeping assist, active parking, adaptive head beam, traffic sign and wrong way alert systems and a 360-degree camera. Pelvis bags, a newly developed window bag, side bags and a driver’s knee bag also form part of the passive safety features.
Speaking to us at its launch, Mercedes-Benz sales manager Ciaran Allen said: ‘With its new looks, keen pricing and well-appointed features, we expect the C-Class to be a very competitive model offering in the mid-range luxury segment. It will be marketed on the three platforms of design & appointments, technical innovation & performance and arrives with a highly-competitive specifications-to-value offering.’
