Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been a symbol of comfort and luxury for years. Recently, the German automaker launched the updated flagship S-Class in India, and now the brand has taken the wraps off the new C-Class with some design ideas that remind us of its larger sibling. The updated model is offered in both Saloon and Estate body styles and gets fresh styling, more technology and revised petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines.
New look for the C-Class
The biggest visual change is at the front. Mercedes-Benz has given the C-Class a new grille with illuminated detailing and star-shaped elements. The headlights also get a twin-star daytime running light design.
- New illuminated grille
- Star-shaped light signatures
- Revised front bumper
- New 17-inch to 19-inch alloy wheels
- Two new exterior colours
- AMG Line Plus trim now available
The rear gets new star-pattern lighting on the Saloon. The Estate gets its own practical body shape while also carrying the updated design details.
The car can also project the Mercedes-Benz pattern onto the ground when the doors are opened.
More tech inside
The cabin retains its familiar layout, which is not a bad thing at all, but gets several useful upgrades. There is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch central touchscreen. The fourth-generation MBUX system runs on Mercedes-Benz’s MB.OS software. It uses AI services from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini.
The voice assistant can answer questions, help with navigation and even identify songs. Over-the-air updates will also allow Mercedes-Benz to add new functions later. Other cabin highlights include:
- Multi-contour seats with massage
- 64-colour ambient lighting
- Burmester 3D sound system
- Dolby Atmos
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Head-up display with augmented reality navigation
- New interior colours and trim options
Petrol and diesel engines
Mercedes-Benz has revised the four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. All combustion engines now use a 48V mild-hybrid system with a second-generation starter-generator (ISG 2.0).
| Variant | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| C 200 | 2.0-litre petrol | 177hp | 270Nm |
| C 250 | 2.0-litre petrol | 218hp | 320Nm |
| C 300 | 2.0-litre petrol | 258hp | 400Nm |
| C 200d | 2.0-litre diesel | 163hp | 380Nm |
| C 250d | 2.0-litre diesel | 200hp | 440Nm |
The petrol engine gets an electric auxiliary compressor to improve response at low engine speeds. The diesel engine can also run on HVO100, B10 and B20 biofuels.
Plug-in hybrid option
The C 400 e 4MATIC combines the 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. It makes 395hp and 650Nm. Its 19.53kWh battery offers up to 100km of electric range under the WLTP cycle. Charging is supported at up to 11kW AC and 55kW DC.
Better driving manners
Mercedes-Benz has also worked on the chassis. The suspension has been retuned for better control and sharper responses. Rear-axle steering can turn the rear wheels by up to 2.5 degrees.
The system can reduce the turning circle to 10.64 metres, which should make parking and tight streets easier.
Safety and assistance
The new C-Class can be equipped with several driver assistance systems. These include automatic lane changes, assisted parking, braking support and improved navigation. The car also use cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors to monitor traffic around it.
India launch
Mercedes-Benz has not confirmed an India launch date yet. In Germany, prices start at €48,844 including VAT.
The new C-Class brings a good mix of fresh styling, stronger technology and updated engines. For buyers who want a luxury sedan without moving up to the S-Class, there is now plenty more to look at.