All new C-Class loses weight and gains upmarket treatment from Mercedes-Benz

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

In terms of appearance the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its elegant interior. The biggest-selling model series from Mercedes-Benz will initially comprise the C180, the C200 and the C220 BlueTEC.

Modern aesthetics was a source of inspiration for the new saloon's sensuous lines and surfaces. The designers have created minimalist, purist forms for the C-Class, which emphasises its intelligent technology and engineering.

In profile view, a long bonnet, a passenger compartment set well back and short overhangs define the C-Class's classic, well-balanced Mercedes-Benz sedan proportions. Large wheels emphasise the rear and communicate a stylishly sporty character.

The new C-Class comes with H7 halogen headlamps as standard while two energy-saving LED variants are available - a static system and a dynamic version with 'LED Intelligent Light System'. The characteristic night design lends the new C-Class its very own distinctive look.

The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled the interior on a level with the carefully chosen high-class materials and their pleasant touch and feel as well as the precision of the finely crafted details. The driver and front passenger enjoy plenty of space and luxury while Mercedes claims settling into one's seat in the C-Class is akin to the uplifting feeling of being upgraded from economy to business class on a commercial jetliner.

Thanks to intelligent and innovative lightweight construction, the aluminium hybrid body is around 70kg lighter and aids in reducing the vehicle's overall weight by around 100kg.

Powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines are equipped with the ECO start/stop function and comply with the Euro 6 emissions standard. Five four-cylinder petrol engines rated from 156bhp to 238bhp will be available, including the special C180 ECO Edition. A six-cylinder petrol engine rated at 333bhp will follow in due course.

The diesel engines will cover an output range from 115bhp to 204bhp. The C220 BlueTEC will also be optionally available with an output of 170bhp as the BlueEFFICIENCY Edition. A new small diesel engine with a displacement of 1.6-litre will also be added to the range. Depending on its configuration, the supercharged four-cylinder engine generates 115bhp or 136bhp of power and delivers 280Nm or 320Nm of torque.

Mercedes-Benz will additionally be offering the C300 BlueTEC HYBRID with four-cylinder diesel engine and a compact electric motor with an output of 204bhp and 27bhp respectively. It returns 25.6km/L on the NEDC combined cycle. A further economical plug-in hybrid model will follow at a later juncture.

Alternatively, the new C-Class is the first vehicle in its segment that can be fitted with an air suspension (AIRMATIC) as the driver can use the AGILITY SELECT to choose between the various characteristics - 'Comfort', 'ECO', 'Sport' and 'Sport+', while the additional 'Individual' option enables drivers to configure their vehicle according to own preferences.