Mercedes-Benz has set a new record for the diesels in the legendary Pikes Peak hill-climb race with a near-production C 300 d 4MATIC: Test driver Uwe Nittel completed the 19.99 km long route which includes more than150 bends at a range in altitude of nearly 1400 metres in just 11.37 minutes.

“With extensive simulation measures, gruelling durability road tests and exhaustive trial driving at test sites all over the world, Mercedes-Benz’s testing programme is undoubtedly one of the most rigorous in the automotive branch,” says Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, member of the board of management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “Pikes Peak raised the crossbar still further. And the virtually series-productionC 300 d 4MATIC demonstrated in this test that sporty performance and clean exhaust technology go together perfectly.”

The test drive at Pikes Peak also demonstrated how well Mercedes-Benz diesel powertrains are adapted to the special requirements of the US market, which include extreme climatic conditions.
The course’s numerous switchbacks put the suspension and the 4MATIC powertrain through their paces when accelerating out of the bends. Another challenge for the diesel engine was the thin mountain air – the finishing point is an impressive 4301 metres above sea level. Test driver Uwe Nittel, 46, reports: “Shoving a series diesel saloon with automatic transmission up Pikes Peak sounds like a crazy idea, put it was a lot of fun. And it showed that all the prejudices regarding diesel vehicles are well out of time.”

Nittel comes from rallying: numerous victories in national championships and the rally world championship culminated in the vice world champion’s title in group N (1996). In 2011 he belonged to the team that won the FIA truck racing European championship.

The 150 kW (204 hp) C 300 d 4MATIC (in Europe known as 250 d) fitted with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission competed in the hill-climb race in largely series-production configuration. As is customary for a racing car, the interior was cleared out. The modifications included the safety measures required by the regulations, such as a roll-over cage, racing tank, fire extinguishing system, enhanced brakes and ultra-high-performance tyres (UHP).

The environment-friendly engine technology remained completely unchanged. Thanks to the highly effective emission control system, the C 300 d is the first diesel model to undercut the American ULEV 70 emissions limits, which are among the strictest in the world.

The engine technology: clean and economical

The C 300 d is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine with fourth-generation common rail direct injection featuring piezo injectors, two-stage turbocharging and exhaust gas recirculation. A highly sensitive engine control system responds precisely to the most diverse operating conditions, thereby optimising the combustion processes. The emission control system incorporates a close-coupled electrically heated oxidation catalytic converter and a diesel particulate filter which is located in the area of the bulkhead. This shortens the regeneration times.
The core of the emission control system takes the form of an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) catalytic converter, with an “AdBlue®” injector connected upstream. “AdBlue®” is a synthetic aqueous urea solution which causes the nitrogen oxides (NOx) to be reduced to harmless nitrogen in the SCR catalytic converters. Monitoring and diagnosis of the complex exhaust gas aftertreatment processes are performed by various sensors, including a differential pressure sensor, a lambda sensor, NOx and temperature sensors.

The hill-climb race: legendary and gruelling

156 bends and a difference in altitude of 1439 metres over a distance of just under 20 kilometres – the “Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb” (PPIHC) in the US state of Colorado is arguably the most spectacular and demanding hill-climb race in the world. The uphill gradient averages seven percent. The epithet “Race to the clouds” derives from the alpine topography: The race begins at an ample altitude of 2862 metres, and the finishing point at the summit of Pikes Peak in the Rocky Mountains is no less than 4301 metres above sea level. The entire route has been asphalted since 2011.

PPIHC is one of the very oldest motorsport events:Races for automobiles and motorcycles have been held here since 1916, and this year’s event was the 93rd in the course’s history. The best-known winners include the American Bobby Unser, who won the hill-climb race 13 times in all, Indycar drivers Mario Andretti (1969) and Rick Mears (1976) and rally drivers Michèle Mouton (1984, 1985), Walter Röhrl (1987), Ari Vatanen (1988) and Sebastien Loeb (2013).

During the Mercedes-Benz family’s most recent growth spurt, the entry-luxe CLA and the top dog Mercedes-AMG GT S have grabbed inordinate attention. More significant is how the new C-class fares against rising hostility in the premium compact-sedan class. Traditionally, Audi has been the style and luxury leader and BMW has defined exemplary performance, while Cadillac’s ATS, Acura’s TLX, and the latest Lexus IS are fresh party crashers. But, as we’ve determined by driving and testing the new Benz Cs, the silver star aspires to topple that order. As the brand’s top seller, the C-class has a mission to stand tall against come what may from East, West, and the U.S. of A.

The new Cs are larger inside and out yet lighter thanks to shrewd engineering and more aluminum in their unibodies; they’re also fully endowed with safety and infotainment technology. Prices are higher to give the CLA breathing room; when the base rear-drive C300 arrives early next year, it will start at $39,325. For the time being, the C300 4MATIC tested here with a base sticker of $41,325 is the closest thing to a C-class bargain.

A $2175 Sport package (18-inch AMG wheels, sport seats, drilled front brake rotors, sporty cosmetic touches), $2800 Driver Assistance package (automatic cruise control and braking intervention, lane keeping with steering assist, blind-spot warning, and other safety helpers), $2690 Multimedia package (COMAND navigation with 8.4-inch LCD screen and voice control, backup camera), $1680 Premium package (Burmester sound system with satellite reception), a $720 silver paint job, and $580 heated front seats jacked up the bottom line to $51,970. That sum includes what Mercedes calls MB-Tex upholstery, an appealing vinyl material that is difficult to tell from genuine leather.

The C300’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine pumps out a maximum of 241 horsepower with a turbocharger, although it has its work cut out even with a seven-speed automatic on hand to help. The dynamometer says that 273 lb-ft of torque is available from 1300 to 4000 rpm, but throttle response is somewhat sluggish. Complicating matters is a transmission slow to kick down from a cruising to a passing gear. Acceleration bottom line: To 60 mph, the C300 beats the Cadillac ATS 2.0T but not the BMW 328i. The Merc’s 6.1-second 0-to-60-mph sprint and 14.6-second-at-96-mph quarter-mile are competitive, but the car doesn’t feel as vivacious as many turbo and non-turbo rivals. Both the BMW and Cadillac sedans were RWD and equipped with manual transmissions; we’ve tested an all-wheel-drive 328i xDrive wagon, which weighed 155 pounds more than this C. It hit 60 in 5.8 seconds and tripped the quarter-mile lights in 14.3 seconds.

In cornering grip, this C300 tied the rear-wheel-drive 328i sedan’s 0.88 g, bested the xDrive wagon’s 0.86 g, and trailed the rear-drive ATS 2.0T’s 0.90 g. Riding on run-flat Pirelli Cinturato radials, this Benz’s 177-foot stopping distance from 70 mph was substantially longer than the class average, and we noted hints of fade in our testing. Pedal feel is reassuring after the slightly excessive initial travel is taken up.

The C300’s electrically assisted power steering trumps BMW’s best attempts with this technology, providing firm off-center effort and straight-line confidence that’s superior to the new Mercedes S-class. Alas, little road feel is communicated from the tire contact patches to the driver’s fingertips.

A sound body structure does provide a superb foundation for excellent suspension tuning and nicely controlled ride motions. Bumps in the middle of tight bends don’t faze the C’s combination of coil springs and multilink wheel locators. There’s an Agility Select switch to adjust the dampers on Airmatic cars (ours didn’t have that option), as well as transmission and throttle actions on all models, but jumping from Comfort to Sport+ extremes invokes only subtle character changes. There’s a separate switch for disabling the environmentally friendly engine stop-start mode; luckily, the attendant shudder on restart is modest enough to live with.

Dynamic traits are, overall, competent but not sufficiently compelling to sway BMW fans from their hero worship. The C-class does, however, score major aesthetic points. Two forward-shining points of light signal the uninitiated to clear a path. This sedan’s profile mimics the curved upper surfaces defining modern Mercedes-Benz four-doors. The interior rivals Audi’s best efforts while surpassing what other premium-compact makers bring to bear.

The MB-Tex feels as rich as other brands’ leather thanks in part to elegant stitching. The matte-chrome and brushed-metal trim looks like a silversmith’s work. The highly adjustable front buckets are comfortable and supportive of your most ambitious driving antics. While the rear compartment is a bit tight on entry, the split-and-fold seats are roomy enough for two adults or three compliant kids. With no spare or jack in the trunk, there’s 12.8 cubic feet of luggage space plus a large subfloor cubby for your secret stash.

There is also weirdness to report. In keeping with Benz tradition, the headlamp switch has no ‘off’ position (an ‘auto’ setting handles that). Transmission operation is by paddles and a column stalk, which some deem unpalatable. The Braille method must be used to engage cruise control because the left-side stalk in charge of that is totally blocked by a steering-wheel spoke. (At least the optional sport steering wheel is perfectly notched for a determined driver’s thumbs.) The 8.4-inch LCD screen’s black border is only slightly smaller than the useful image area, and the 300-page owner’s manual will be dog-eared before some owners will feel comfortable with the screen and its attendant COMAND controller and magic touchpad. Some among our ranks find the system perfectly intuitive, however.

None of these are mortal sins. The newest Mercedes-Benz is sized right, beautifully furnished, and enjoyable in the hands of demanding drivers. It’s a satisfying piece that will make life tougher for its many foes.

Via: Car and Driver

By popular demand, we have compiled our favorite photos of the current Mercedes-Benz C-Class for your viewing pleasure.  The photo gallery includes the 2012 Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series, 2012 Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe, 2012 C63 AMG Sedan, 2012 C350 Sedan, 2012 C350 Coupe, 2012 C300 Luxury Sedan, 2012 C250 Coupe, 2012 C350 Coupe and lastly the 2012 C350 Coupe 4MATIC.

Head below to view all photos in the gallery or click the one of the linked models above to go directly to their corresponding photos.

All photos enlarge to full screen in order for you to save as your favorite background.

Tell us here.  Which is your favorite C-Class?

The newly redesigned 2012 C-Class sedan is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. in August of 2011. The front and rear end of the popular Mercedes-Benz sedan have been enhanced with a more distinctive design. The luxurious interior is now emphasized by the stylish new dashboard, which features a premium, fine-grain finish and stylish trim elements, as well as a high-resolution color display in the instrument cluster. Fuel economy has been improved by as much as 15 percent, thanks to new direct-injection engines and the redesigned 7-speed automatic transmission. Five new driver assistance systems ranging from the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system through to the Blind Spot Assist are now available in the C-Class lineup. New-generation telematics offer new infotainment and navigation features.  Scroll down to view a complete options list for the C250, C300 and C350.

The U.S. model line-up consists the:

• C250 RWD : 1.8L Turbo I4 , 201 hp / 229 lb-ft
• C300 4MATIC: 3.0L V6, 228 hp / 221 lb-ft
• C350 RWD: 3.5L V6, 302 hp / 273 lb-ft

The Mercedes-Benz management team on the C-Class:

“The C-Class Sedan has been the global market leader in its segment since 2008, so it is highly topical. But the comprehensive updating of our high-volume model also shows that even in the global economic crisis we have had the strength to invest in our product portfolio without making any compromises. For us the new-generation C-Class with more than 2000 new parts is a facelift – others would speak of a new car.” Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars

“We are currently making greater leaps forward than ever before in the history of the car where efficiency is concerned. This becomes clear if you compare our compact top model from 1989, the 190E 2.5-16 Evo I, with the current C220 CDI. The performance is virtually identical, and in the space of just 20 years consumption has been halved, whilst comfort, safety and emission characteristics have drastically improved at the same time. And we are certainly keeping up this speed: we are inventing the car for the second time.” Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Development, Mercedes-Benz Cars

“In order to keep delivery times as short as possible for our customers, we have production of the C-Class running at full steam in three plants. We introduce the extensive changes for the new generation, such as the hood made of aluminum, on the production line in a flying changeover. This is a challenge for logistics and processes, and it is only thanks to the motivation and flexibility of our employees that we can do this with confidence. Some of our competitors envy us for this ‘Daimler spirit’.” Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Production and Purchasing, Mercedes-Benz Cars Daimler Communications

“The drive system and safety systems in the new-generation C-Class offer the comfort, efficiency and safety of our luxury vehicles. The new telematics generation connects the C-Class with the internet. Plus, with many significant details in the interior, the vehicle calls to mind the new CLS and sets totally new standards in its segment where the quality impression is concerned.” Dr Joachim Schmidt, Member of Mercedes-Benz Cars Management responsible for Sales and Marketing

“The new-generation C-Class also sets the pace in its segment when it comes to design. This is especially apparent in the interior: fine materials displaying painstaking attention to detail and the generous use of trim parts add an exclamation mark: the C-Class is dressed up to the nines.” Prof. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, Mercedes-Benz Cars

Design

Expressive, resolute, self-assured

• Striking: restyled bumpers, hood and headlamps
• Eye-catching: tail lights with an impression of depth thanks to LED indicators
• High-grade redesigned dashboard emphasizes premium standard

The C-Class has undergone a comprehensive makeover. The bumper now has a more distinctive and dynamic design, with the front end adopting the brand’s new design language. The center air intake opens upward in a v-shape and forms the core element of the grille design, while istinctive lines emerge from the base of the aggressive arrow design in the center. Running beneath the headlamps, these character lines transition into the side profile. The outboard air intakes in the bumper are positioned very low down to give the car a more muscular stance.

The C-Class features a new aluminum hood, which helps reduce weight to improve fuel efficiency. Contours around the headlamps and grille bring additional emphasis to the front-end arrow form. Working together with the redesigned headlamps, the overall front-end look is far more distinctive.

Modified clear glass headlamps create a more dynamic and determined look and, together with the hood, grille and bumper, enhance the arrow visual at the front end. This precise, contemporary look is reinforced by the design of both the exterior and interior of the headlamp units, which feature a finely balanced interplay between matte and gloss surfaces. The halogen headlamps follow the classic format with low beam located on the outside and high beam in the inside, while the indicator lamps are discreetly positioned in the outer corners toward the fenders.

The available bi-xenon headlamps come with active functions and bring added depth to the appearance with a series of LED modules. A C-shaped positioning light defines the nighttime design, with cornering lights located behind it and stretching outward to the main lamp module. At the base of the headlamps are broad horizontal LED indicator units. Also horizontal are the LED daytime running lights located in the bumper, which make the C-Class unmistakable from a distance.

On the rear bumper, the character lines and shutlines have been modified to add emphasis to the vehicle’s stance. This is especially evident in the steep rise of the character line running outward toward the rear lights. A continuous character line on the upper edge of the rear bumper runs into the fenders of the C-Class to provide a connection to the sides and emphasizes the sporty character of the rear view. A new one-piece jewel case on the tail lights provides further integration into the rear of the vehicle. The characteristic sinuous surface line is now reflected on the inside of the lights and is reminiscent of earlier models.

The distinctive depth of the lights is achieved by LED indicators located in the center that appear to float in front of the more deeply set red LED bands above and below. The rear light pattern is particularly distinctive at night.

The redesigned tail lights are even more neatly integrated into the tail end by a continuous covering lens. The characteristic surface meander is now on the inside of the light, and reminiscent of preceding model series. The impression of depth is achieved by a centrally located LED indicator, which appears to float in front of the red upper and lower light bands.

In all its finery: restyled dashboard and high-grade surfaces

One focal point of the work done in the interior was the redesign of the dashboard with the aim of creating a powerful, sporty and premium look-and-feel that includes extensive enhancement to the trim. The surfaces of the controls are more finely detailed and feature a metallic finish. The stepped hood of the instrument binnacle now extends to incorporate the central display and runs onward into the passenger side enhanced by a subtle character line. The central, trapezoidal air vents and the outer circular vents are accentuated with metallic trim elements.

Central to the design of the new dashboard is a prominent trim panel which stretches from the central air vents along the passenger side to the outer air vent, adding visual width to the interior. The surface grain on the top portion of the dashboard continues along the upper edges of the door panels.

The new-generation center console is distinguished by its rectangular silver keys and emphasizes the premium feel of the interior in combination with matte keys, high-gloss surfaces and a new knurled control knob. Together with the new-generation telematics, the restyled C-Class also receives a new instrument binnacle with integrated display. Oriented toward the driver are three tubular gauge surrounds with metallic surfaces that further enhance the character of the C-Class.

The luxury feel is emphasized by the new-generation leather steering wheel introduced with the all-new CLS and now available as standard in the C-Class. The steering wheel features a chrome-plated central spoke and further accentuates the car’s stylish and sporty ambience.

2012 C250 Sedan Equipment List

Standard Equipment

Comfort/Convenience

• Power sunroof with express open and close
• Dual-zone automatic climate control with dust filter
• 8-way power front seats with lumbar support
• Single disc CD/ MP3 /AM/ FM/ Weatherband radio
• HD Radio*
• Bluetooth Audio Streaming*
• 8-speaker sound system with auxiliary input and USB port
• Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
• Central controller with 5.8″ display*
• Multifunction leather steering wheel
• 4.5″ color instrument cluster display*
• Front and rear cupholders
• Rain sensing intermittent wipers*
• Integrated rear view mirror compass*
• Auto dimming mirrors*
• Integrated garage door opener*
• Tilt & telescoping steering column
• Cruise control
• Power windows with express up and down
• Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & locator lighting
• Trip computer

Performance/Handling

• 201 Horsepower @ 5,500 RPM
• 229 lb-ft of Torque @ 2,200 – 4,300 RPM
• 7-speed automatic transmission
• Front suspension: 3-link independent strut-type with stabilizer bar
• Rear suspension: Multi-link independent with stabilizer bar
• Dual exhaust with chrome outlets

Safety/Security

• ATTENTION ASSIST*
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function*
• New vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty
• 24 hr. roadside assistance program
• Owner information kit
• Mercedes-Benz maintenance system
• LED Daytime Running Lamps
• LED Tail Lamps*
• Steel-reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones
• Front & rear outboard seatbelts with pre-tensioners & force limiters
• Dual two stage front airbags
• Side airbags mounted in front seat backrests
• Head protection curtains
• Dual front pelvic airbags
• Driver’s side knee airbag
• Active front head restraints
• 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP¨)
• Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
• LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children
• Antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer
• SmartKey with panic button
• Tire pressure monitoring system

Option Packages

Sport Package

• 17″ Split 5-spoke alloy wheels*
• Sport suspension
• Sport bodystyling
• Aluminum Trim
• Tires: 225/45 R17 front / 245/40 R17 rear all-season

Luxury Sedan Package

• 17″ Split 5-spoke alloy wheels
• Comfort suspension
• Comfort headrests
• Burl Walnut Wood Trim
• Tires: 225/45 R17 all-season

Premium 1 Package

• Power front seats with driver memory
• Split-folding rear seats
• SIRIUS¨ satellite radio
• 4-way power lumbar support (driver only)
• iPod/MP3 Media Interface (in center console)
• Harman/kardon LOGIC7¨ surround-sound system
• Heated Front Seats

Lighting Package

• Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination
• Headlamp cleaning system
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist*

Lane Tracking Packaging

• Blind Spot Assist
• Lane Keeping Assist

Multimedia Package

• COMAND system with hard-drive navigation (80GB)
• Enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation
• SIRIUS¨ real-time traffic service
• In-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer and SD card slot
• Gracenote¨ media database
• 10GB hard-drive with Music Register
• Rearview Camera

Stand Alone Options

• Mercedes-Benz mbrace™
• Panorama sunroof
• SIRIUS¨ satellite radio (included in Premium 1)
• iPod¨/MP3 Media Interface (included in Premium 1)
• Heated front seats (included in Premium 1)
• Burl Walnut wood trim
• 18″ AMG Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels
• 18″ AMG 7-spoke alloy wheels
• PARKTRONIC w/Advanced Parking Guidance
• KEYLESS-GO
• Rear side airbags

Special Order Options

• In-Dash 6-Disc CD Changer
• Obsidian Black Paint
• Dynamic Handling Package (Sport)
• Power rear window sunshade

Paint

Black, Magnetite Black, Arctic White, Cuprite Brown*, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Pearl Beige, Lunar Blue*, Diamond White, Mars Red (Sport), Sapphire Grey

Upholstery

Black MB Tex, Almond Beige MB Tex, Ash MB Tex, Black Leather*, Ash Leather*, Almond Beige Leather* (Luxury), Sahara Beige Leather* (Sport), Cappuccino Leather* (Sport)

2012 C300 4Matic Sedan Equipment List

Standard Equipment

Comfort/Convenience

• Power sunroof with express open and close
• Dual-zone automatic climate control with dust filter
• 8-way power front seats with lumbar support
• Single disc CD/ MP3 /AM/ FM/ Weatherband radio
• HD Radio*
• Bluetooth Audio Streaming*
• 8-speaker sound system with auxiliary input and USB port
• Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
• Central controller with 5.8″ display*
• Multifunction leather steering wheel
• 4.5″ color instrument cluster display*
• Front and rear cupholders
• Rain sensing intermittent wipers*
• Integrated rear view mirror compass*
• Auto dimming mirrors*
• Integrated garage door opener*
• Tilt & telescoping steering column
• Cruise control
• Heated Windshield Washer Reservoir
• Power windows with express up and down
• Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & locator lighting
• Trip computer
• Performance/Handling
• 228 Horsepower @ 6,000 RPM
• 221 lb-ft of Torque @ 2,700 – 5,000 RPM
• 7-Speed automatic transmission*
• Front suspension: 3-link independent strut-type with stabilizer bar
• Rear suspension: Multi-link independent with stabilizer bar
• Dual exhaust with chrome outlets

Safety/Security

• ATTENTION ASSIST*
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function*
• New vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty
• 24 hr. roadside assistance program
• Owner information kit
• Mercedes-Benz maintenance system
• LED Daytime Running Lamps
• LED Tail Lamps*
• Steel-reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones
• Front & rear outboard seatbelts with pre-tensioners & force limiters
• Dual two stage front airbags
• Side airbags mounted in front seat backrests
• Head protection curtains
• Dual front pelvic airbags
• Drivers side knee airbag
• Active front head restraints
• 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP¨)
• Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
• LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children
• Antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer
• SmartKey with panic button
• Tire pressure monitoring system

Option Packages

Sport Package

• 17″ 5-spoke wheels*
• Sport suspension
• Sport bodystyling
• Aluminum Trim
• Tires: 225/45 R17 front / 245/40 R17 rear all-season

Luxury Sedan Package

• 17″ Split 5-spoke alloy wheels
• Comfort suspension
• Comfort headrests
• Burl Walnut Wood Trim
• Tires: 225/45 R17 all-season

Premium 1 Package

• Power front seats with driver memory
• Split-folding rear seats
• SIRIUS¨ satellite radio
• 4-way power lumbar support (driver only)
• iPod/MP3 Media Interface (in center console)
• Harman/kardon LOGIC7¨ surround-sound system
• Heated Front Seats

Lighting Package

• Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination
• Headlamp cleaning system
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist*

Lane Tracking Packaging

• Blind Spot Assist
• Lane Keeping Assist

Multimedia Package

• COMAND system with hard-drive navigation (80GB)
• Enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation
• SIRIUS¨ real-time traffic service
• In-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer and SD card slot
• Gracenote¨ media database
• 10GB hard-drive with Music Register
• Rearview Camera

Stand Alone Options

• Mercedes-Benz mbrace™
• Panorama sunroof
• SIRIUS¨ satellite radio (included in Premium 1)
• iPod¨/MP3 Media Interface (included in Premium 1)
• Heated front seats (included in Premium 1)
• Burl Walnut wood trim
• 18″ AMG Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels
• 18″ AMG 7-spoke alloy wheels
• PARKTRONIC w/Advanced Parking Guidance
• KEYLESS-GO
• Rear side airbags

Special Order Options

• In-Dash 6-Disc CD Changer
• Obsidian Black Paint
• Power rear window sunshade

Paint

Black, Magnetite Black, Arctic White, Cuprite Brown, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Pearl Beige, Lunar Blue*, Diamond White, Mars Red (Sport), Sapphire Grey

Upholstery

Black MB Tex, Almond Beige MB Tex, Ash MB Tex, Black Leather*, Ash Leather, Almond Beige Leather* (Luxury), Sahara Beige Leather* (Sport), Cappuccino Leather* (Sport)

2012 C350 Sedan Equipment List

Standard Equipment

Comfort/Convenience

• Power sunroof with express open and close
• Dual-zone automatic climate control with dust filter
• 14-way power front seats with driver memory and power lumbar support
• Single disc CD/ MP3 /AM/ FM/ Weatherband radio
• HD Radio*
• Bluetooth Audio Streaming*
• SIRIUS¨ satellite radio
• iPod/MP3 Media Interface (in center console)
• 12-speaker Harman/kardon LOGIC7¨ surround-sound system with
• auxiliary input and USB port
• Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling
• Central controller with 5.8″ display*
• Multifunction leather steering wheel
• 4.5″ color instrument cluster display*
• Front and rear cupholders
• Rain sensing intermittent wipers*
• Integrated rear view mirror compass*
• Auto dimming mirrors*
• Integrated garage door opener*
• Tilt & telescoping steering column
• Cruise control
• Power windows with express up and down
• Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & locator lighting
• Trip computer
• Heated Front Seats
• Split-folding rear seats
• Sport bodystyling
• Black Ash Wood Trim

Performance/Handling

• 302 Horsepower @ 6,500 RPM
• 273 lb-ft of Torque @ 3,500 – 5,250 RPM
• 7-Speed automatic transmission*
• Sport suspension
• Front suspension: 3-link independent strut-type with stabilizer bar
• Rear suspension: Multi-link independent with stabilizer bar
• 17” AMG Twin 5-Spoke Alloy Wheel
• Tires: 225/45 R17 front / 245/40 R17 rear all-season
• Dual exhaust with chrome outlets

Safety/Security

• ATTENTION ASSIST*
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function*
• New vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty
• 24 hr. roadside assistance program
• Owner information kit
• Mercedes-Benz maintenance system
• LED Daytime Running Lamps
• LED Tail Lamps*
• Steel-reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones
• Front & rear outboard seatbelts with pre-tensioners & force limiters
• Dual two stage front airbags
• Side airbags mounted in front seat backrests
• Head protection curtains
• Dual front pelvic airbags
• Drivers side knee airbag
• Active front head restraints
• 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP¨)
• Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
• LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children
• Antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer
• SmartKey with panic button
• Tire pressure monitoring system

Option Packages

Lighting Package

• Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination
• Headlamp cleaning system
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist*

Lane Tracking Packaging

• Blind Spot Assist
• Lane Keeping Assist

Multimedia Package

• COMAND system with hard-drive navigation (80GB)
• Enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation
• SIRIUS¨ real-time traffic service
• In-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer and SD card slot
• Gracenote¨ media database
• 10GB hard-drive with Music Register
• Rearview Camera

Stand Alone Options

• Mercedes-Benz mbrace™
• Panorama sunroof
• Burl Walnut wood trim
• 18″ AMG Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels
• 18″ AMG 7-spoke alloy wheels
• PARKTRONIC w/Advanced Parking Guidance
• KEYLESS-GO
• Power rear window sunshade
• Rear side airbags

Special Order Options

• In-Dash 6-Disc CD Changer
• Obsidian Black Paint
• Dynamic Handling Package (Sport)

Paint

Black, Magnetite Black, Arctic White, Cuprite Brown, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Pearl Beige, Lunar Blue*, Diamond White, Mars Red, Sapphire Grey

Upholstery

Black MB Tex, Almond Beige MB Tex, Ash MB Tex, Black Leather*, Ash Leather, Sahara Beige Leather*, Cappuccino Leather*