Published : 24 February 2021
Read Time : 5 min
Author: Saransh Goyal
Mercedes Benz has taken wraps off the new C-Class and it looks like a miniature version of the flagship S-Class. Upfront, it gets swept-back angular headlamps with L-shaped DRLs flanking the trapezoidal single-slat grille. The side profile looks clean with short overhangs and a character line running across the length just below the window line. Coming to the back, it features teardrop-shaped tail lamps and huge bumper housing reflectors, air vents and faux exhaust tips.
Similarly, on the inside, the new C-Class replicates the flagship sedan. The landscape infotainment screen has been replaced by a 9.5-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen (11.9-inch unit optional). The digital instrument cluster is also redesigned and is now a free-standing unit instead of a conventional-looking unit. It is now available in two sizes: 10.25-inch and 12.3-inch. The new C-Class also gets a new steering wheel like the S-Class and the AC vents are also redesigned and look inspired by a jet turbine. Mercedes is offering the second-gen version of the MBUX system on the new C-Class.
Mercedes has also introduced some segment-first features on the C-Class including air suspensions at the back as standard and a rear wheel steering. The steering angle at the rear axle is 2.5 degrees which reduces the turning circle by 43 centimetres to 10.64 metres.
At speeds below 60 kmph, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels – and by up to 2.5 degrees opposite to the front-axle angle during parking. While at the speeds above 60kmph, the rear wheels steer up to 2.5 degrees in the same direction as the front wheels.
The new C-Class is offered with a new series of petrol and diesel engines which get a 48V mild-hybrid as standard across the range. Here the engine options to choose from.
Petrol
Diesel
In India, the new C-Class is expected to be offered with three engine options: C 200, C 220d and the C 300d, like the current model.
In terms of dimensions, the new C-Class is longer and wider and longer than the current model. It also has a longer wheelbase. Here is a comparison:
Mercedes Benz has not said anything about launching the C-Class in India but we expect it to happen by the end of this year. It will continue to take on likes of the BMW 3 Series, Jaguar XE, Audi A4 and the upcoming Volvo S60.