Mercedes is preparing the generation change for the C-Class. The new edition promises more sportiness and still wants to be more economical. But a status symbol falls by the wayside.
The S-Class may be important for prestige and profit. But when it comes to quantities, no sedan is more important for Mercedes than the C-Class. That is why the Swabians turn a particularly large wheel with every generation change. And now it will soon be that time again. In a few weeks, after seven years and 2,5 million units, the 205 series will be retired and the successor is warming up.
According to chief engineer Christian, it becomes sportier and more economical at an early age. The new dynamism is represented by a more agile chassis with the first rear-axle steering for the series and a design with more muscles - right through to the standard power domes on the bonnet.
Under the hood, however, common sense reigns: There are only four-cylinder engines left, and they are all electrified with a 48-volt generator. It starts with a 170 PS strong C180, the C200 with 204 PS or the C300 (258 PS) for the petrol engines and two diesels: the C220d with 200 PS and the C300d with 265 PS - mostly with rear-end and for an extra charge at least for the more powerful versions also with all-wheel drive.
Even before AMG perhaps brings at least a six-cylinder, there will first be the plug-in hybrids. Mercedes is not only the only one to use petrol or diesel, but also installs the largest battery: 25 kWh should provide more than 100 kilometers of electric range. This means that the C-Class not only outstrips the competition, but also catches up with the S-Class.
And that's not the only parallel to the flagship. The cockpit with the free-standing screen behind the steering wheel and the large touchscreen between the center console and the center tunnel should also seem familiar to Mercedes connoisseurs. Just like the expanded MBUX system, the energizing comfort functions and the new airbag between the driver and front passenger.
The backbenchers will also have at least a bit of S-Class feeling. Because grown to 4,75 meters, the wheelbase 2,5 centimeters longer, with a little more interior width and a rearward apex in the roof, the C-Class now offers noticeably more space in the second row than before, says Früh .
If that's not enough, this time there is also a T-model right from the start. And while the coupé and convertible are still very questionable, a further variant has already been decided: as in the E-Class, the C-Class station wagon will also come this year as an all-terrain with SUV borrowings.
The design more athletic, the chassis more agile and the engines equally sporty and economical - this is how the C-Class is hoping for the second spring after the mid-life crisis. The Swabians are even giving up a traditional status symbol for young people: For the first time, the C-Class will only be available with the big star in the grill instead of the small star on the hood.
