With the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz is setting off into a more efficient and even more digital world, creating an all-round future-proof comfort zone – a refuge that combines apparent opposites, such as sportiness and comfort with efficiency, emotion, and intelligence, thus defining modern luxury. The new model generation is the manufacturer’s first series to be electrified throughout. As an additional highlight, the new C-Class, following the new S-Class, is also equipped with the second generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). This makes the passenger compartment even more digital and intelligent.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather

While the photos do a fantastic job of hiding the C’s new lines, we see just enough of the sedan (which is called W206 internally) to tell that stylists took its front end in a sharper direction. It’s taller and more upright than the current model’s. The overall proportions and dimensions don’t seem to have drastically changed, and spy shots taken in Germany in late 2020 confirm that the new C-Class carries on with distinctive rear-wheel-drive proportions.

Mercedes-Benz will no longer offer the C-Class with a hood ornament, at least not in the United States. American-spec models will exclusively be available with a three-pointed star integrated into the grille, according to a recent report. China is the exception to this rule: Buyers there will be able to order some variants with a hood-mounted star.

Pay no attention to the wagon lurking in the background. It will certainly be a looker, but the odds of seeing it on our side of the pond are low at best. Elsewhere, it might spawn an outdoorsy All-Terrain-branded model aimed at the Audi A4 Allroad and outfitted with rugged-looking exterior accents, skid plates, and more ground clearance.

Inside, the W206 will learn several tech tricks from the latest generation of the S-Class. It will notably be available with Mercedes-Benz’s second-generation MBUX infotainment software, which is one of the most advanced systems on the market. Spy shots reveal a fully digital instrument cluster, and a sizeable touchscreen on the center stack.

As we previously reported, the next C-Class will downsize to a four-cylinder-only range. Displacement will be replaced by electrification across the board; even AMG’s fire-breathing C63 will lose half of its cylinders. Buyers in Europe will have access to fuel-sipping turbodiesel engines, but the American range will be gasoline-only. Rear-wheel-drive will come standard, while 4Matic all-wheel-drive will be offered at an extra cost on some versions.

Mercedes-Benz will introduce the fifth-generation C-Class online on February 23, 2021.

Spied at Lapland Proving Ground, a testing area designed for vehicle cold climate testing and located 120 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the most Northern area of Finland, an early prototype of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is hard at work.

Based on the lines, the new C-Class will take a large portion of its design cues from the prior models.  But that will be where the similarities will likely end as the new C-Class will be redone from the base up, starting with the modified MRA2 rear-wheel-drive platform that is shared with its big brother, the E-Class.

Plan on four and six cylinder options under the hood and of course our favorite AMG offerings that make the car one of our favorites on the track.

Our thanks to Motor1 for bringing us these fine photos.

Additional engines for the new C-Class can now be ordered at the dealers. This makes a total of more than 50 models of the new C-Class family available worldwide – 30 saloons and estates as well as 21 coupés and cabriolets. Regarding engines, the varied line-up currently ranges from the entry-level diesel C 180 d rated at 90 kW/122 hp (combined fuel consumption: 4.7-4.5 l/100 km, combined CO₂ emissions: 124-119 g/km)¹ to the sporty C 43 4MATIC models from Mercedes-AMG rated at 287 kW/390 hp. (combined fuel consumption: 9.8-9.3 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 223-213 g/km).

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class family

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class familyThe new Mercedes-Benz C-Class family
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class family

Entry to the world of the C-Class in Germany starts at 34,914.60 euro incl. 19% VAT for the C 180 d Saloon (combined fuel consumption: 4.5-4.2 l/100 km, combined CO₂ emissions: 119-110 g/km)¹. The Estate model with the same engine (combined fuel consumption: 4.6-4.2 l/100 km, combined CO₂ emissions: 122-112 g/km)¹starts at 36,580.60 euro. The Coupé and Cabriolet start at 40,066.95 and 46,130.35 euro, respectively.

Be it as a classic saloon, a practical estate, a sporty coupé or an elegant cabriolet – the new C-Class is as varied as never before. With currently 13 engines, it offers 51 models and thus represents the largest family in the passenger car range of Mercedes-Benz. Now in its fifth year of production, the C-Class is the most successful model series from Mercedes-Benz and boasts a wealth of enhancements. In terms of looks, the focus of the redesign work was on the front of the vehicle as well as the design of the headlamps and tail lamps. There are also new petrol and diesel engines, partly with an additional 48-volt system with belt-driven starter alternator. The electronic architecture is completely new. The customer benefits from a user experience with an optionally fully digital instrument display and multimedia systems with tailor-made display and information options.

The C-Class also uses map and navigation data for assistance functions. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driving Assistance package is able to support the driver in numerous route-specific situations, and predictively adjust the speed e.g. when approaching bends, junctions or roundabouts. Other new developments include intuitively understandable Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist as new functions of Active Steering Assist.

The new C-Class comes with extended Active Brake Assist as standard. Depending on the situation, this can help to mitigate the consequences of rear-end collisions with slow-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles ahead, and even with crossing pedestrians and cyclists, or prevent them altogether.

Here are the most important new and improved functions at a glance:

• The DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL suspension (1071 euros incl. VAT), is equipped with continuous adjustable damping for the front and rear axle. The continuously variable system controls the damping characteristics individually for each wheel as it interacts with the engine, transmission and steering properties – to suit the driving situation, speed and condition of the road surface. The individual suspension set-up can be determined in the three stages “Sport”, “Sport+” and “Comfort” via the DYNAMIC SELECT switch.

• There are 84 individually controlled LEDs in each headlamp of the MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with ULTRA-RANGE Highbeam (934.15 euro (coupé and cabriolet) or 1963.50 euro (saloon and estate) incl. 19% VAT respectively). They allow extremely quick and precise, electronically controlled adjustment of the headlamps to suit the current traffic situation. New functions in comparison to the LED Intelligent Light System (19 LEDs per headlamp) are the junction light, roundabout light, city light and adverse weather light. When no other road user is detected, the road ahead is straight and the vehicle speed is above 40 km/h, ULTRA-RANGE Highbeam is switched on automatically. This produces the maximum light intensity permitted by law, which results in the brightness of the main beam headlamps only falling below the reference value of 1 lux after a distance of more than 650 metres.
• The fully-digital instrument display (892.50 euros incl. VAT) comprises a 12.3-inch, high-resolution instrument cluster. The cutting-edge screen design offers the three very different display styles “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive”. The styles can be switched easily according to personal preference or to suit the selected interior.
• ENERGIZING comfort control (238 euros incl. VAT) links various comfort systems in the vehicle. It systematically uses the functions of the air conditioning system (including fragrancing) and the seats (heating, ventilation), as well as lighting and musical moods, to create a specific wellness set-up tailored to the customer’s preferences.
• The latest-generation COMAND Online (2915.50 euros incl. VAT) offers fast 3D hard-disc navigation with topographical map display, photo-realistic 3D buildings and 3D map rotations, among other things. Comprehensive information is displayed on the navigation map: in addition to virtually real-time traffic density information, it can for example show Car-to-X warning messages, the weather, filling stations including current fuel prices and available parking spaces.
• New to the range of optional extras is an additional sound system (416.50 euros incl. VAT). With nine speakers and an output of 225 W (2 x Frontbass with 50 W, remaining five channels each with 25 W), it is positioned between the standard sound system and the Burmester^® surround sound system.

As with the four-door sedan on which they are based, the Mercedes-Benz C-class coupe and cabriolet offer style that mimics that of the larger E- and S-class models. The svelte junior Benz two-doors serve as an entry point to the motoring high life, where sleek lines and luxurious cabins mean more than practical considerations such as interior space or luggage capacity. Driving either the rear wheels or all four is a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides adequate, if not exactly thrilling, power. Some rivals offer sportier handling, zippier acceleration, and smoother rides, but the C-class coupe and cabriolet are prettier and coddle occupants in one of the nicest interiors in the segment. Tech features pioneered on the brand’s more expensive offerings have trickled down as well, including available automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The C-class coupe and cabriolet are lovely, impressive pieces that are well suited for drivers who prefer relaxing in style.

2018 Mercedes-Benz C-class Coupe and Cabriolet

HIGHS
Achingly pretty exterior design, high-style interior, smooth-shifting transmission.

LOWS
Expensive add-on features, relaxed driving dynamics, overly stiff ride with optional sport suspension.

VERDICT
In either form, this baby Benz is a style-over-function affair.

What’s New for 2018?
For 2018, the coupe model ditches its seven-speed automatic transmission for the nine-speed unit from the convertible. Coupe models now come standard with blind-spot monitoring, push-button start, and a new 18-inch wheel design. The droptop gains a semi-automatic trunk separator, new wood trim for the interior, and an analog clock on the dashboard. Both models now offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a heated steering wheel as options. A new color—Designo Selenite Grey Magno—freshens up the palette.

Trims and Options We’d Choose
We can’t decide between the coupe or the convertible, so we’ll leave that $8000 decision up to you. We would suggest a few upgrades to each of them, though, starting with the $1090 Advanced Lighting package, which provides LED headlamps with automatic high-beams, illuminated doorsills, and interior ambient lighting. Next, we’d add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for $350, and finally, we’d select the Premium package ($1900 on the coupe, $1650 on the convertible), which, among other things, adds:

• Power-folding side-view mirrors
• SiriusXM satellite radio
• Premium Burmester audio system
• Pop-up wind deflector (convertible only)

As equipped, our chosen rear-wheel-drive coupe carries a list price of $47,185, while a similarly equipped convertible retails for $54,935.

Via: Car and Driver

The updated C-Class combines emotionality with intelligence. The vehicle’s new appearance is defined in particular by its front end and the design of the headlamps and tail lights. On the new version, the AMG Line features the diamond radiator grille as standard. The front bumpers have been redesigned for all lines. They feature either a silver trim strip (standard), a chrome-plated trim strip (in combination with AVANTGARDE exterior) or a three-part chrome trim strip (EXCLUSIVE exterior).

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Exclusive, exterior: mojave silver, interior: leather magma/espresso

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan AMG line, exterior: designo selenite grey magno, interior: platinium white pearl/black

Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse Limousine AMG-Line, Exterieur: designo selenitgrau magno, Interieur: Leder platinweiß pearl/schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan AMG line, exterior: designo selenite grey magno, interior: platinium white pearl/black

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan AMG line, exterior: designo selenite grey magno, interior: platinium white pea

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan AMG line, exterior: designo selenite grey magno, interior: platinium white pea

The design of the front and rear lamps is defined by clear-lined contours. High-quality, sculpted details underline the sophisticated look and feel. MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with ULTRA RANGE high beam are available for this model series for the first time.

The sporty interior displays a premium look and feel as well as flowing forms. The centre console is characterised by an elegant flowing trim. This is available in open-pore brown walnut or open-pore anthracite oak. The 3D real wood veneer in the centre console combines a hand-crafted character with a modern feel. New interior colours include magma grey/black, plus saddle brown for the AMG Line interior.

The C-Class adopts the control and display concept from the current S‑Class and comes with the option of a fully digital instrument display with three individually selectable display styles. The C‑Class has touch-sensitive controls in the steering wheel. The operation of DISTRONIC and cruise control with controls directly on the steering wheel is another new feature. The infotainment system can additionally be operated via the touchpad with controller (new: haptic feedback) in the centre console or by means of LINGUATRONIC voice control.

The new C-Class features the latest driving assistance systems, offering the driver cooperative support and providing for a higher standard of active safety than its predecessor. The C‑Class is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations. The C‑Class also uses map and navigation data for assistance functions. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driving Assistance package is able to support the driver in numerous situations on the basis of map information and predictively adjust the speed e.g. when approaching bends, junctions or roundabouts. Other new developments include intuitively understandable Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist as new functions of Active Steering Assist.

The optionally available MULTIBEAM LED headlamps are new to the C‑Class. Each headlamp incorporates 84 individually controllable LEDs. These allow extremely quick and precise, electronically controlled adjustment of the headlamps to suit the current traffic situation.

ENERGIZING comfort control (optional) links various comfort systems in the vehicle. It systematically uses the functions of the climate control system (including fragrancing) and the seats (heater, ventilation, massage) as well as lighting and musical moods, and enables a specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of the customer. This has positive effects on wellbeing and driver performance.

Since its market launch in 1982, Mercedes-Benz has supplied customers with over 10 million cars of the C-Class family. The brand has sold more than 2.3 million sedans, estates and coupes of the current model series alone since it was unveiled in 2007.

Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a global success story. Sales of over 10 million C-Class cars speak for themselves. Launched as the ‘Baby Benz’, it is now one of the most popular cars in the premium segment. The innovative engineering and impressive efficiency of the C-Class have been inspiring our customers for more than 30 years.”

C-Class sedans sell extremely well in the US, South Africa and the BRIC countries, while there is particular demand for the estate among customers in Europe. The C-Class coupe tops the registration lists in virtually all markets, including those in the US, Germany and China. The C-Class is also one of the most popular models among business customers. The C-Class estate – which already accounts for nearly a milion sales – was voted 2011 company car of the year in Germany. Most business customers choose the Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI Estate for its excellent fuel economy figures.

Outstanding efficiency

Customers who buy a C-Class are particularly impressed by its outstanding efficiency. The C 220 CDI is the most popular engine and the BlueEFFICIENCY edition scores highly for being particularly environmentally friendly. The sedan and coupe models consume just 4.1 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres – equivalent to CO ₂ emissions of 109 grams per kilometre. The C-Class has always been regarded as a pioneer in its segment in terms of its innovative safety systems which include numerous driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control. Together, these provide a comprehensive level of support and protection for driver and passengers.

Expanding the global production network

The C-Class model series are not only in demand throughout the world – from 2014 they will also be the only Mercedes-Benz vehicles to be produced on four continents, being made at plants in Bremen (Germany), East London (South Africa), Beijing (China) and Tuscaloosa (USA). The Mercedes-Benz plant Bremen is also the centre of excellence for the new C-Class generation and it controls the global ramp-up. Well over a million C-Class cars in the current model series alone have already rolled off the production line in Bremen.

Global success story for over 30 years

The C-Class success story began in 1982 when the Mercedes-Benz 190 was launched as a mid-range car. Because it was the smallest car in the Mercedes-Benz range at the time, it soon earned the nickname ‘Baby Benz’. The first car under the C-Class designation was introduced in May 1993 and it marked new ground for Mercedes-Benz, not only in terms of engineering but also because of the wider range of body shapes. The estate introduced by the company in 1996 was the first sporty, mid-range estate car. When Mercedes-Benz launched the next C-Class model series in 2000, it included the sports coupe, a completely new body variant. The entry of the fourth C-Class generation to the market in 2007 also saw the launch of a new design feature. For the first time, the front-end design of a Mercedes-Benz sedan varied according to the equipment line. While the ELEGANCE equipment line features the three-pointed star in its traditional position on the bonnet, it is built into the centre of the radiator grill for the more sporty AVANTGARDE equipment line.

Edition C and Grand Edition – best sellers at the top of their game

Customers in Germany can look forward to a special offer in the summer when the Edition C option package for sedans, estates and coupes comes onto the market. It includes a wide range of optional extras, high-quality materials in the interior and AMG styling for a dynamic look. Mercedes-Benz has also enhanced the telematics and multimedia centre of this special C-Class model, with features such as an 11.4cm multifunctional colour display in the instrument cluster. The C-Class Edition C package for coupes, sedans and estates is available from €1,785.00 incl. VAT, while the extra cost for a saloon or estate with the AVANTGARDE equipment line is €1,011.50, incl. VAT.

The latest AMG version of the C-Class will appeal to those looking for sports performance. Exclusive, Edition 507 sedans, estates and coupes are fitted with an uprated 6.3-litre, V8 AMG engine with 373 kW (507 bhp) output and 610 Nm of torque. The Edition 507 models are available with the AMG Driver’s Package as standard, which means they have a top speed of 280 km/h. The C 63 AMG Edition 507 was launched in Europe in June and it will be introduced in all major markets in stages.

Mercedes-Benz is also offering its Chinese customers a special version of the C-Class. The special Grand Edition model with sporty AMG styling and particular market-specific colour combinations comes onto the Chinese market in late August.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, due our toward the end of the year possibly at the Frankfurt motor show in September, was spied once again.

While the next-generation C-Class, W205, will maintain its overall shape carried over from the W204, it will likely feature a new set of wider wrap-around headlights and taillights that take design cues from the CLA. The front grille appears to be more oval shaped, while the overall look of the car will be sportier than current C-Class, W204.

The upcoming C-Class will ride on the MRA platform and will weigh in around 3,042 lbs curb weight.  Even with its minor weight loss, the 2014 Mercedes C-Class will likely measure about 100mm longer, with 80mm of the added length for the wheelbase.

We also expect major updates to the safety technology on board the C-Class, taking cues from the current E-Class and adding additional cameras and self steering to its safety mix.

The 4-cylinder and V6 engines will offer up outputs that vary between 184 hp (137 kW) to 330 hp (246 kW). A 2014 C-Class gasoline-electric hybrid model with a 27 hp (20 kW) electric motor is also in the works with a launch date that could be as early as 2015.  Not to be left out is the range-topping AMG variant that will receive a V8 4.0 or 5.5-liter engine.

Via: WCF

According to a report by Autocar, the next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-class will offer hybrid technology on nearly every model variant in an attempt to lower the average fuel consumption down to supermini levels.  This is according to sources within the company.

The new Mercedes C-Class family is being developed to meet demanding CO2 targets and is expected to launch in late 2013. According to a Mercedes insider, the most frugal diesel-engined model in the range is targeting average emissions of just 100g/km, while the most economic petrol version will come in between 110g/km and 120g/km.

Early prototypes are now being tested, but according to Autocar there is still some debate as to whether three-cylinder engines will be fitted. Another possibility is that the new cars will use four-pot engines equipped with cylinder deactivation technology, allowing the motors to occasionally run on just two cylinders.

In addition to these downsized engines and electrical assistance from hybrid transmissions, the new C-Class models will benefit from reduced friction within the engine, gearbox and wheel bearings. The cars’ overall weight, even with the addition of a small battery pack, electric motor and power electronics, will be reduced by around 10 percent.