New chapter in successful design story

THE all-new C-Class heralds a new chapter in the Mercedes-Benz success story and sets new standards in the premium mid-luxury segment.

Thanks to an intelligent lightweight design concept boasting weight savings of up to 100kg, excellent aerodynamics and new, economical engines, the C-Class establishes new benchmarks in its segment.

A host of new assistance systems offers safety of the highest standard, while a new suspension, optionally air-sprung, provides for exemplary ride and driving comfort, as well as nimble and agile handling.

In terms of appearance, the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its superior interior. Many other innovations and interior touches underscore the sedan’s energising comfort and refined sportiness.

The C-Class model range will initially comprise of the C 180 from R415 900 and the C 200 from R436 600, the C 220 BlueTEC from R459 000 and the C 250 from R502 600, (prices included 14% VAT excluding CO² emission tax).

“The order process has now commenced at all Mercedes-Benz dealerships throughout Southern Africa, and we will see the local launch of our all new and exciting model in June 2014. Model variants with the higher capacity engines will be introduced at a later stage,” says Selvin Govender, divisional manager, product and marketing, Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

There is a choice of two different faces, sporty with centrally positioned star or for the Exclusive line only the classic saloon radiator grille featuring the Mercedes-Benz star on the bonnet.

The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled the interior on a level which is rarely encountered even in higher vehicle segments. The driver and front passenger enjoy plenty of space and luxury in a discreet and modern guise. This gives rise to a feel-good atmosphere which is new to this class of vehicle.

Three different design and equipment lines for the exterior and interior respectively offer further scope for individualisation in addition to the standard equipment and appointments.

In keeping with Mercedes-Benz traditions, the body is designed for exemplary crash safety. As a result, the sedan complies not only with all current national laws but also with all rating requirements, as well as meeting the more stringent internal Mercedes-Benz safety standards based on what actually happens during accidents.

Powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines, all equipped with the ECO start/stop function and complying with the Euro 6 emissions standard, provide for lively performance and great driving enjoyment. They also cut fuel consumption by up to 20% compared with the preceding model.

Four engine variants are available at the market launch, a diesel in the guise of the C 220 BlueTEC and the three petrol models, C 180, C 200 and C 250.

• C 220 BlueTEC – 125kW, 400Nm, 0-100km/h in 8,1 sec, 4,0 l/100 km, 113g/km CO².

• C 180 – 115kW, 250Nm, 0-100km/h in 8,2 sec, 5,0 l/100km, 113g/km CO².

• C 200 – 135kW, 300Nm, 0-100km/h in 7,5 sec, 5,3 l/100km, 127g/km CO².

• C 250 – 155kW, 350Nm, 0-100km/h in 6,6 sec, 5,3 l100km, 139 g/km CO².

In addition to three-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioning and belt force limitation for the driver, the front passenger and those in the outer rear seats, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle’s occupants in an accident.

The front passenger seat can additionally be fitted with automatic child seat recognition. This enables any child seat to be used. The airbag is automatically deactivated when a child seat is fitted and reactivated once it has been removed.

The initial range of models available at the market launch in June 2014 comprises: (inclusive of VAT and exclusive of CO² emission tax).

• C 220 BlueTEC – R459 000.

• C 180 – R415 900.

• C 200 – R436 6000.

• C 250 – R502 600.

The new C-Class comes standard with the class-leading PremiumDrive maintenance plan – six-year/100 000km – with no customer contribution.