Marseille, France – The launch of an all-new C-Class is a significant event on any motoring calendar. For Mercedes-Benz it represents the next iteration of its most important sales model (8,5 million units have been sold worldwide since the W202 was introduced in 1993). For traditional marketplace rivals BMW and Audi, however, the arrival of a new C-Class offers a renewed opportunity for comparison against one of the most respected nameplates in the industry.
Walking through Marseille Airport towards a fleet of brand-new C-Class test units I couldn’t help but wonder which of my most recent Mercedes-Benz test drives – the new S-Class or CLA sedan – this all-important new Mercedes-Benz would most closely compare too.
While the S-Class exuded class, refinement, comfort, and sophistication, my experiences with non-AMG-tuned CLA models makes me wonder whether Mercedes hasn’t wondered a little too far out of its comfort zone with this particular model. Given its generally poor ride quality, questionable use of materials and heavily spec-dependent, quirky styling, I simply find the divide between the CLA and the rest of the ‘Benz range a distance uncomfortably far.
“The most attractive C-Class ever built” is how vice-president for the E- and C-Class ranges, Michael Krumer, describes the new W205 model; and I’m inclined to agree. While it’s obvious many of the lines on the new C mimic those of the larger S-Class, viewed in the metal there is certainly enough bespoke detailing within the design to give the smaller car a character of its own.
What I like most about the new C’s shape is that it strikes a near perfect balance, regardless of grille treatment (traditional or modern), between elegant sleekness and purposeful sportiness.
The new C is around 100 mm longer and 40 mm wider than the model it replaces. The result of an 80 mm gain in wheelbase is an increase in usable interior space. That said, while the front seats offer exceptional comfort with all the adjustment you could want for, rear legroom behind my (186 cm tall) driving position was acceptable rather than extraordinary.
Though lightweight in their make-up, there’s a solid, positive feel to the doors as they seal you within one of the finest cabins this segment has seen to date. Where some switches, including electric seat and window functions have the same look and (welcome) feel as those in the S-Class, the rest of the new C-Class’ interior is a welcome mix of traditional Mercedes sophistication and modern technological convenience.
While I’m disappointed Mercedes-Benz didn’t present an all-new key fob to complement the new C package, there’s no denying the use of materials and perceived build quality within the new C-Class sets a new standard for this segment.
Apparently not ready in time to make it into the S-Class, a new touchpad infotainment control has, nevertheless, been included within the C-Class cabin. An interesting innovation, bound to find its way into future Mercedes models, I personally found myself instinctively seeking out the more familiar dial control neatly housed below the sleek-looking touchpad. My hesitation in learning the clever workings of this new system was mostly a combination of having to concentrate on driving a left-hand drive car and the somewhat unnatural disconnect between the pad and infotainment display. I would have preferred a full touchscreen display instead.
Built on an all-new MRA platform, the new C-Class is up to 100 kilograms lighter than the previous model. With up to 50% aluminium incorporated in its construction the new C-Class is not only stiffer than ever with improved handling and ride quality, but is also more slippery than before (with some models boasting a 0,24 drag coefficient). Managing airflow as it does, the new car is not only more efficient than ever, but also boasts one of the quietest cabins I’ve experienced in this class of vehicle.
Indeed the only interruption to otherwise S-Class-mimicking levels of comfort and refinement was the occasional drone of the C250s turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injection petrol engine under load. Mated with a seven-speed 7G-Tronic transmission this unit offers 155 kW and 350 N.m of torque. An otherwise refined, efficient (5,6 L/100 km) and suitably powerful engine it struggles to hide its displeasure at being hurried along via sharp throttle inputs.
While an impressive optional Airmatic air suspension system (with four setting Agility select function) is a first for this segment I was able to sample the more than competent default steel suspension (available in comfort, Avantgarde, and sport), with its four-link front axle, in a C200 earlier in the day.
On first impressions, the BMW 3 Series is likely to remain the first choice for driver involvement, but Mercedes-Benz should be commended for affording the new C-Class a light-on-its-feet agility, complemented by an impressively well-weighted electromechanical steering system that certainly bodes well for future AMG versions.
Expect the East London-built Mercedes-Benz C-Class to appear on South African roads in May this year. Expect it to highlight the shortcomings of the CLA; and look for it to win the Compact Executive Sedan award in our next Top 12 Best Buys issue.
*Specifications
Model: Mercedes-Benz C250
Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
Power: 155 kW at 5 500 r/min
Torque: 350 N.m between 1 200 and 4 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 6,6 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (limited)
Fuel consumption: 5,6 L/100 km
CO2: 123 g/km
Price: R502 600
ETA: May 2014
*According to Mercedes-Benz