MERCEDES has announced the new fourth-generation C-Class, and the big news is improved efficiency thanks to reduced weight, better aerodynamics and improved engines and gearboxes – all of which should help to cement the strong market position of this firm company car favourite.
One other important change – Mercedes will offer its diesel hybrid drivetrain in the C-Class for the first time, with a plug-in hybrid to follow later on.
The new Mercedes C-Class is about 100kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks mainly to increased use of aluminium, which accounts for almost half of the latest model’s structure compared with ten per cent previously.
This so-called hybrid aluminium body alone produces a saving of about 70kg, despite the new C-Class being a little larger than before. Aerodynamic work means a very low drag coefficient of as little as 0.24 on some models.
Mercedes has also tried to lift the interior by using better quality materials, and likens the experience of entering the new cabin to “the uplifting feeling of being upgraded from economy to business class on an aeroplane.” A head-up display will be available for the first time as well.
The initial engine line-up has a familiar look to it, though.
There’s a 2.15-litre 103g/km C 220 CDI diesel offering a combined 70.6mpg, and a pair of petrols that incorporate the fuel-saving BlueDIRECT measures already seen on Mercedes’ larger V6s and V8s. The 1.6-litre C 180 delivers a combined 56.5mpg and 116g/km of CO2, while the two-litre C 200 offers 53.3mpg and 123g/km. All are Euro 6 compliant. A new smaller 1.6 diesel turning out 115 or 136PS will arrive later on.