Initially slated for a January 2015 release, the new, 2015 Mercedes-Benz C Class is rumored for an Indian launch as early as next month. Replacing the w204 C Class, the new W205 C is going to be fresher than before, and for now only two variants will be sold in India- the C200 petrol and the C220 CDI diesel. Also, expect a limited Launch Edition model as well.
Almost 100 Kgs lighter due to intense aluminum usage, the new C features S Class mimicking styling to get into the whole family look scheme of things. Straightaway, it paints a bolder picture than its predecessor. Though progressive in its approach, the new C-class adds dynamism and tension on its exterior surfaces, and in the process, ends up looking like a beautifully scaled down S Class.
The C 200 will get 1991 cc four-cylinder petrol motor that produces 181 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 30.5 kgm of torque from 1200-4000 rpm. With a thrifty 1465 kg kerb weight, it does the 0 to 100 kph dash in just 7.3 seconds and has a top speed of 235 kph. The C 220 CDI features a 2143 cc in-line four-cylinder diesel motor and produces 167.6 bhp from 3000 to 4200 rpm and 40.7 kgm from 1400 to 2800 rpm. Both motors will be paired to a 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic gearbox.
The interior of the new Mercedes C-Class is a clear departure from its traditional design theme. Bristling with freshness, and boasting the use of high quality materials, the interior of the new C-Class is really exciting. In terms of novelty value, it has to be the most exciting of all the new three pointed stars which have emerged on the horizon of late. The interior embodies a new design idiom, which according to Mercedes “is akin to the uplifting feeling of being upgraded from economy to business class on an aeroplane.”
A centrally positioned 7 inch free-standing central display is the main eye-catching feature across the center console. The screen grows in size to 8.4 inches if you order the COMAND online system with the car.Talking of the COMAND Online system – it enables digital TV / radio reception, for example, and offers a host of other features including fast hard-disc navigation, Live Traffic Information integrated WLAN hotspot functionality and the LINGUATRONIC voice control system.
Prices for the C-Class are expected to begin at roughly Rs 30 lakh for the base C 200 petrol going up to Rs 39 lakh for the C 220 CDI (ex-showroom, Delhi). After that, one can expect other variants to follow, including the hotted up C 63 AMG!