ANDt is the main novelty of the Stuttgart firm for this year and only a few months after its global presentation, Mercedes-Benz has just launched in Argentina the fifth generation of the C-Class, its best-selling sedan.
With a notable evolution in design, but especially in technology, the new C-Class is currently marketed in a single version -C300- which also stands out for having a mild- hybrid mechanics that reduces emissions and achieves greater efficiency.
“In the alphabet of our vehicle models, the letters “C” and “S” occupy almost opposite ends. In our product portfolio they are now closer. I am convinced that the new C-Class, with its high technology, will captivate more and new customers. With its latest generation MBUX, more intuitive handling and greater personalization are achieved, to which is added as a novelty that the dashboard and the central display are slightly oriented towards the driver, which accentuates its sporty character. With the new edition we continue on the path to a digital and sustainable future with numerous innovations, such as the new digital elements in the passenger compartment. The new C-Class redefines its segment as it offers details of comfort and equipment from the higher categories. With this vehicle, our customers will have everything they need to relax on board and enjoy the drive.” Roberto Gasparetti, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Autos, highlighted in this regard.
These are its main features:
The new:
It is the fifth generation of the C-Class: in addition to its evolved design, the main novelty lies in its complete technological equipment and its total commitment to electrification. Known internally under the code W206, this generation is developed on the MRA modular platform, shared by all rear-wheel drive or full-wheel drive saloons from the Stuttgart firm. It grew slightly in dimensions – it is now 4.75 m long (+6 cm), 1.82 m wide (+1 cm), 1.44 m high (same) and has a wheelbase of 2, 86 m (2 cm), which promises greater roominess, especially in the rear seats.
Aesthetically, as has been happening in the latest products presented by the brand, it maintains the same style as its older brother. At a glance it is somewhat difficult to differentiate a Class C, from a Class S or a Class A, except for its difference in size. Its lines are more fluid and elegant, without as many straight or marked lines as in its predecessors. The novelty is that for the first time it does not offer the classic grille with horizontal bars and the logo on the hood of the Elegance finish, but rather the entire range has the huge star in the center and you can choose different finishes for the frame, among them one that replicates the emblem in each honeycomb opening. The headlights -with full Led technology- are somewhat thinner and longer, while its silhouette is a clean sweep of that of its predecessor. Alloy wheels of 17, 18 and 19 inches of different design can be chosen to personalize each unit, while the rear adopted more elongated headlights with a design very similar to that of the Class A, which extend over the trunk lid.
Inside doors is where its kinship with the S-Class stands out the most, incorporating the second generation of the MBUX multimedia system. In the case of the C300 version that arrives in our country, it has a screen of up to 12.3 inches for the instruments -configurable by the driver-, plus a second 11.9-inch display for the infotainment system. Unlike the previous MBUX, instead of both displays being linked together, the second screen is now integrated into the center console again, in a lower position and within reach of the driver. In the most equipped versions, it completely dispenses with physical controls, being completely tactile or operable through voice commands thanks to its advanced Artificial Intelligence technology, capable of recognizing each occupant.
Mechanically, goodbye to V8 or 6-cylinder engines, the entire range globally -even future AMG versions- use turbocharged four-cylinder engines with a 48V mild-hybrid system.
Dimensions:
4,751mm long, 1,820mm wide, 1,438mm high and 2,865mm wheelbase.
Versions:
At the moment it is marketed in a single version, C300 Mild-Hybrid with AMG Line package.
Comfort equipment:
Thermatic dual-zone automatic climate control, electrically adjustable front seats with memory kit, MBUX multimedia system with extended functions and 11.9″ touch screen, digital instruments with 12.3″ display, configurable ambient lighting, door opening and ignition without key, cameras with 360º vision, Dynamic Select driving mode selector, Start&Stop, Agility Control suspension with selective damping system, panoramic sunroof, nappa leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, Hi-Performance Led lights, arctic leather upholstery /alcantara and 18” AMG alloy wheels.
Safety equipment:
7 airbags (front, side, curtain and knee for the driver), four-wheel disc brakes with ABS/EBD/BA, traction control, stability control, Isofix anchorages, tire pressure monitoring system tires, mirrors with anti-glare system, adaptive brake light and adaptive cruise control with autonomous emergency braking function (Distronic).
Mechanics:
The C300 is powered by a 2.0 turbo in-line four-cylinder gasoline engine associated with a 48V mild-hybrid system. It develops a power of 258 hp at 5,800 rpm and a torque of 400 Nm between 2,000/3,200 rpm and is coupled to the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission with 9-speed torque converter.
Performance:
- Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: 6 seconds
- Top speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited)
- Mixed consumption 6.6/7.0 l/100 km
*factory data
Data sheet:
Technical characteristics and new equipment Mercedes benz C-Class
Price and guarantee:
- Mercedes-Benz C300 MHEV AMG-Line: $104,000
- 3-year unlimited mileage warranty.