New Mercedes-Benz C-Class: W206-gen sedan officially unwrapped…

By: CAR magazine

Mercedes-Benz has finally pulled the covers from its new C-Class sedan, a few days after images of the W206-generation saloon leaked online.

As the Stuttgart-based brand has already revealed, the new C-Class becomes the first Mercedes-Benz model series to feature a fully electrified line-up, with all variants employing an integrated starter-generator and 48 V technology.

So, only four-cylinder units will be offered, in both petrol and diesel flavours and available exclusively with the brand’s 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. The turbocharged 1,5-litre petrol unit generates 125 kW in the C180 and 150 kW in the C200, each with an additional 15 kW “boost” from the electrified gubbins.

The C300’s turbocharged 2,0-litre petrol engine, meanwhile, offers 190 kW (plus 15 kW of electric boost), while the 2,0-litre turbodiesel unit in the C220d and C300d makes 147 kW and 195 kW (again, each with an extra 15 kW of electric boost), respectively. Fourth-generation plug-in hybrids are set to follow “soon after the launch”.

The German firm says the “dynamically configured” suspension system comprises a new four-link axle fore and a multi-link axle at the rear, mounted to a subframe. Rear-axle steering will also be available.

With a length of 4 751 mm (up 65 mm) and a width of 1 820 mm (up 10 mm), the sedan is described as being “considerably larger” than its predecessors. The wheelbase has grown by 25 mm to 2 865 mm, with both the front and rear passengers benefiting from the extra space. Claimed luggage capacity matches that of the outgoing model at 455 litres.

Mercedes-Benz’s trademark grille characterises the fresh front end, with all models featuring a central star. Standard models employ decorative elements in the louvres, while the grille and front bumper feature chrome surrounds. Specified with the AMG Line package, the grille takes on a diamond pattern. For the first time, the taillamps have a two-piece design on the C-Class.

Inside, the redesigned facia has been divided into upper and lower sections. The driver area, meanwhile, features a free-standing, high-resolution LCD screen. Customers will have a choice between a 10,25-inch and a 12,3-inch version.

Various vehicle functions can be controlled using the centrally positioned touchscreen, which is portrait in orientation. This display has a screen diagonal of 9,5 inches as standard, with a larger version measuring 11,9 inches set to be optionally available. Like the new S-Class, the W206-generation C-Class is equipped with the second generation MBUX system, complete with a “more interactive and capable” voice assistant (“Hey Mercedes”, anyone?).

As a reminder, Mercedes-Benz South Africa will again produce the sedan at its factory in East London.

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