The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Superior safety, comfort and agility

[Guest angela]

Decided to post this back-dated press release about the much-anticipated New W204 C-Class Saloon here as it seems to be the most appropriate section?! ???

Will post the pictures in the media section for easier reference but please let me know if you'd rather that I do not post these stuff on the forum... :-\

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Superior safety, comfort and agility

Stuttgart, Jan 18, 2007

Safety, comfort, agility: these are the outstanding attributes of the new C-Class. The Saloon excels with a many-faceted product concept which meets the expectations of various customer target groups. With the AVANTGARDE, ELEGANCE and CLASSIC lines, Mercedes-Benz offers three individual models whose emphasis is on either comfort or agility. All model variants share the latest, state-of-the-art technology. This includes the newly developed AGILITY CONTROL package with situation-responsive shock absorber control, the Intelligent Light System with five different lighting functions and the PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system. There is a choice of four and six-cylinder engines with up to 13 percent more output than the preceding model, accompanied by up an to six percent lower fuel consumption.

With a length of 4581 millimetres, the Saloon is 55 millimetres longer than its predecessor. The body width has increased by 42 mm to 1770 millimetres, and the wheelbase by 45 mm to 2760 millimetres. These dimensions create the conditions for a generously sized interior, and therefore more comfort. The front shoulder room has increased by 40 millimetres, for example.

The design of the new C-Class is based on the modern Mercedes idiom, which reflects the technical superiority of automobiles bearing the star with taut lines and large, tranquil surfaces. The pronounced wedge-shape of the front end serves to emphasise attributes such as agility and performance. For the first time in a Mercedes salon, the radiator grille is used as a distinguishing feature to position the model variants more clearly. Three extended, horizontal louvres and a big centrally positioned Mercedes star characterise the AVANTGARDE model as a traditional design feature of sporty Mercedes models. Together with the sporty, high-quality appointments, this feature emphasises the youthful, agile appearance of this C-Class. This sporty presence can be enhanced even further with the AMG sports package, which includes striking front and rear aprons plus side skirts.

In the ELEGANCE model Mercedes-Benz employs a three-dimensional, louvred radiator grille with a high-gloss paint finish to accentuate other brand-typical attributes such as comfort and luxury. The CLASSIC model in the new C-Class is intentionally more restrained and traditional, but offers the same technical innovations as the other two model variants.

This "product-in-product" concept enables Mercedes customers to accentuate individual choices, and configure the C-Class to suit their personal taste and lifestyle even more emphatically than before. All the models offer the same, extraordinary driving experience that the Saloon provides by virtue of further technical improvements. Both by its outstanding long-distance comfort and its dynamic handling, the C-Class sets new standards in this market segment.

Shock absorbers automatically adapt to the driving situation

AGILITY CONTROL – this is the term used by Mercedes-Benz for all new and further developments that improve both comfort and agility in equal measure. This standard package includes the AGILITY CONTROL suspension, which controls the shock absorber forces according to the driving situation: when driving normally with low shock absorber impulses, the damping forces are automatically reduced for a noticeable improvement in ride comfort – but without any compromise in handling safety. When driving more dynamically, the maximum damping forces are set and the car is effectively stabilised. The AGILITY CONTROL steering of the new C-Class has a ratio of 14.5, and is therefore six percent more direct than the steering of the preceding model. The likewise included AGILITY CONTROL gearshift reflects the sporty character of the C-Class with a short travel and precise shifts.

Mercedes-Benz has also developed the ADVANCED AGILITY package with a sporty driving mode, which will become optionally available from autumn 2007. This offers the driver a choice of two gearshift programmes: Sport and Comfort. Within these programmes the shock absorber for each wheel has infinitely variable electronic control. A newly developed speed-sensitive steering with a more direct ratio, variable centring and adaptation of the accelerator characteristics and automatic transmission shift points is also included in the package.

ADAPTIVE BRAKE is another new development in the area of running gear technology. This is based on the technology of the S-Class and provides additional support functions for even more safety and comfort. Examples include Start-Off Assist for uphill gradients, priming the braking system in critical situations and light contact to dry the brake discs in wet conditions.

Output of the supercharged four-cylinder engines increased by up to 13 percent

With a remarkable boost in output by up to 13 percent and an increase of around 18 percent in torque, the engines also do more than their bit to create the lively nature of the new C-Class. The four and six-cylinder units not only excel with powerful responsiveness, but also contribute to the excellent ride comfort of the Saloon with their improved smoothness.

Mercedes-Benz has paid particular attention to further development of the four-cylinder engines. In the petrol range, the output of the entry-level C 180 KOMPRESSOR has increased from the previous 105 kW/143 hp to 115 kW/156 hp, with maximum torque improved by 4.5 percent from 220 to 230 newton metres, while the C 200 KOMPRESSOR develops 15 kW/20 hp more than before. It has an output of 135 kW/184 hp and generates its maximum torque of 250 newton metres from 2800 rpm. These modified engines considerably improve the performance and fuel consumption of the four-cylinder models. When accelerating from standstill to 100 km/h, the C 200 KOMPRESSOR is 0.5 seconds faster than its predecessor. Improvements in fuel consumption are equally impressive: the C 180 KOMPRESSOR consumes 0.3 litres per 100 kilometres less than before, while the combined fuel consumption of the C 200 KOMPRESSOR has been reduced by 0.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

Fuel consumption of the four-cylinder CDI engines reduced by 0.3 litres

Further development of the four-cylinder units was also the main focus for the diesel engines. The engineers in Stuttgart have made further improvements to the engine, turbocharger and common-rail direct injection, modifying more than 90 components. As a result of these measures the new C 200 CDI has eleven percent more output than the preceding model, with 100 kW/136 hp versus the previous 90 kW/122 hp. The C 220 CDI develops a peak output of 125 kW/170 hp (previously 110 kW/150 hp), and generates a torque of 400 newton metres from 2000 rpm - around 18 percent more than before. Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 0.3 litres per 100 kilometres: in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the C 200 CDI and C 220 CDI are able to travel 100 kilometres on just 6.1 litres of fuel.

The modern V6-engines in the C-Class range remain unchanged, with a choice of three petrol units developing 150 kW/204 hp, 170 kW/231 hp and 200 kW/272 hp. The six-cylinder of the new C 320 CDI has an output of 165 kW/224 hp. With the exception of the C 350, all models in the new C-Class are equipped with a six-speed transmission featuring AGILITY CONTROL gearshift as standard. The top-of-the-range C 350 has 7G-TRONIC, the world’s only seven-speed automatic transmission, as standard equipment. This is also available for the other six-cylinder C-Class models on request.

The latest Mercedes inventions ensure maximum safety

During the course of its development, the new C-Class successfully passed more than 100 crash tests, including the particularly demanding, in-house impact tests of which some go well beyond the legal requirements. Passing these is a precondition for the highest accolade in automobile safety: the Mercedes star. Occupant protection is based on an intelligently designed bodyshell, 70 percent of which consists of high-strength and ultra high-strength steel. Compared to the previous series, Mercedes-Benz has enlarged the deformation zones even further and improved energy flows. The front-end structure of the new C-Class has four independently acting impact levels, which enable forces to be distributed over a wide area while bypassing the passenger cell.

The safety technology in the interior has been complemented with the very latest protection systems. Seven airbags are included as standard equipment: two adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag for the driver, two sidebags in the front seat backrests and two large windowbags which extend from the A to the C-pillar during a side impact. The driver, front passenger and the passengers on the outer rear seats also benefit from belt tensioners and belt force limiters as standard. The standard head restraints operate on the NECK PRO principle: during a rear-end collision the padded surfaces are pushed forward within milliseconds to support the heads of the driver and front passenger at an early stage. This significantly reduces the risk of a whiplash injury.

Mercedes-Benz has developed flashing brake lights as a major help in reducing rear-end collisions, and these are also standard equipment in the new C-Class. If the driver needs to brake hard at speeds in excess of 50 km/h, the brake lights flash rapidly to warn drivers following behind.

PRE-SAFE® is another special feature of the new Mercedes Saloon. This preventive occupant protection system (optional) is linked to active safety systems such as ESP® and Brake Assist, and is able to recognise critical driving manoeuvres at a very early stage. If the C-Class is in danger of crashing as a result of heavy under or oversteering, or if the driver needs to brake very heavily in a dangerous situation, PRE-SAFE® activates certain systems as a precaution to prepare the vehicle and its occupants for an impending accident. Accordingly the passive safety phase does not begin when the impact has already occurred, but before an impending collision.

The Intelligent Light System developed by Mercedes-Benz is also available in this vehicle class for the first time. Powerful bi-xenon headlamps provide five different lighting functions suited to typical driving and weather conditions: country mode, motorway mode, enhanced foglamps, the Active Light System and cornering lights. Yet another important contribution by Mercedes-Benz to safer driving in poor visibility.

Interior design "cast from a single mould"

When developing the cockpit, Mercedes designers took their lead from the sporty sector and included clearly laid-out dial instruments such as may be found in roadsters or coupés. Silver-coloured bezels, black dial faces, white markings and glowing orange needles perfectly combine form with function for a high value impression and easy legibility.

Equally clearly laid out and well-arranged, the two-tone dashboard and centre console of the new C-Class form a harmonious unit in line with the "design cast from a single mould" principle. The same applies to the integration of the colour display at the upper centre of the dashboard. This is perfectly positioned within the driver’s line of vision, but can also be covered or folded away as required, without switching off the radio, navigation system or other units linked to the display. If the pivoting cover of the display aperture is closed, the infotainment units continue to operate.

New control concept for clarity and comfort

The central colour display is part of the new control and display concept which the new C-Class has adopted from the luxury-class Mercedes models. Its major advantage is rapid access to frequently used functions, which means that the driver does not need to relearn, is able to maintain familiar habits and feels at home immediately. All the control and display elements necessary and important during a journey are located in the cockpit, i.e. in immediate proximity to the driver.

In the same way, linking the standard multifunction steering wheel with the instrument cluster is an important precondition for rapid access to a wide range of information and functions in the driver’s direct line of vision. Other functions such as infotainment are shown by the display at the centre of the dashboard. The driver and front passenger are able to control the radio, navigation system or telephone by using a controller on the centre console, or access the main menus using direct selection keys.

COMAND provides voice operation, a music server and DVD navigation

The Audio 20, Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS systems are a range of newly developed, optional infotainment units for C-Class passengers. They all feature a keypad for entering telephone numbers and radio frequencies, as well as a Bluetooth interface which wirelessly connects the mobile phone to the hands-free system. In the Audio 50 APS, the route guidance information – some of it as a visually attractive automatic junction zoom display - is shown by means of arrows on the fixed colour display (4.9-inch) in the dashboard. An integral 6-CD changer and the LINGUATRONIC voice control system are available on request.

The multimedia system COMAND APS offers even more functions than before in the new C-Class. One new feature is a Europe-wide navigation system whose data are stored on a hard disc (30 gigabytes). The high-resolution maps are shown on a colour display (7-inch) which pivots away and disappears beneath a cover at the touch of a button. Other functions of COMAND APS include a music server with a four-gigabyte memory, a DVD-player for video and audio, and the LINGUATRONIC voice control system, which Mercedes-Benz has likewise improved further: the driver no longer needs to spell out the names of countries, towns or roads, but is able to speak them as whole words. The voice control system is just as convenient when selecting radio stations or entries in the telephone directory.

The C-Class is the bestseller in the Mercedes lineup

The new C-Class Salon replaces a model series of which more than 1.4 million units have been sold since spring 2000. All in all, Mercedes-Benz has delivered more than two million of the Saloon, Estate and Sports Coupé models in the previous C-Class to customers all over the world. This makes the C-Class the bestseller in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range. Germany is the largest market for the C-Class, accounting for around 30 percent of worldwide sales.

Source: DaimlerChrysler AG

[Guest angela]

AVANTGARDE

ELEGANCE

In White!

[Guest angela]

Anyone knows when will it be arriving here ?

Can't wait to see the actual car!

[Guest CBlack]

Anyone knows when will it be arriving here ?

Can't wait to see the actual car!

i was told by my c&c sales rep that it will come in jul. anyone know if the four cyclinder engine is the same as the current w203 ie M271?

[Guest jenvid]

I thought they scrapped the M271 ? No ? Read somewhere before...

[Guest angela]

The new engine will be an uprated M271 engine for the W204 C180 Kompressor and the C200 Kompressor models.

The output of the New C180 KOMPRESSOR has increased by 9% from the previous 143hp to 156hp @ 5200rpm, with maximum torque improved by 4.5% from 220Nm to 230Nm @ 2500-4200rpm.

The New C200 KOMPRESSOR develops 184hp @ 5500rpm and generates its maximum torque of 250Nm from 2800-5000 rpm compared to 163bhp @ 5500rpm / 240Nm @ 3000-4000rpm currently.

[Guest angela]

Two Mercedes patents that bring significant aerodynamic advantages are being used in the new C-Class for the very first time. Mercedes engineers have invented innovative "ventilated tail lights" which replace conventional spoiler lips. To keep the rear window clean even in heavy rain, and ensure that the driver has a clear view to the rear, the specialists in Sindelfingen have a developed a twin rubber drainage channel in which the rainwater is collected and conducted away to the sides by the slipstream.

With a Cd value of 0.27, the new C-Class is the most aerodynamically efficient notchback saloon in its market segment. This is made possible by a number of intelligent details which measurably reduce the air resistance, and therefore fuel consumption. The innovative tail lights with ventilating slits are a good example. These replace conventional spoiler lips and therefore do not compromise the attractive rear-end design of the saloon. This technology was newly developed by Mercedes engineers and has been patented.

When the C-Class is on the move, air is sucked in from the underbody and is conducted behind the tail lights to flow out of the small ventilating slits in the lenses. As the tail lights are hermetically sealed against the vehicle body, the air is only able to escape to the side via the ventilating slits. In this way the aerodynamic specialists are able to influence the air flow along the side walls by abruptly redirecting it at the tail lights.

Without this sophisticated aerodynamic feature, the slipstream would be conducted behind the rear end of the saloon at the tail lights, causing unfavourable turbulences which negatively affect the air resistance, rear axle lift and yaw characteristics. This is prevented by the "ventilated tail lights" of the new C-Class.

Rubber drainage lip on the rear window: rainwater is sucked away

In addition to reducing the coefficient of drag during their wind tunnel tests, the aerodynamics experts at Mercedes-Benz take care to ensure that the exterior mirrors, side windows and rear window remain clear in rainy conditions, giving the driver unimpeded all-round visibility. Owing to the special air pressure distribution in the rear roof area of the C-Class, a new Mercedes patent is used here for the first time: a two-piece rubber lip as a transition between the roof and the rear window. This features an open channel and a partly enclosed channel. Owing to the pressure conditions at the rear edge of the vehicle roof, rainwater first runs towards the middle in the open channel, where suction draws it outwards. Via the enclosed channels in the rubber lip, it then flows away downwards along the window edging, keeping the window clean even at high speeds.

[Guest angela]

75,000 orders received for the C-Class sedan

Stuttgart, Apr 03, 2007

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class got off to a great sales start throughout Western Europe last weekend. 75,000 orders have been received for the new C-Class sedan at the time of its market launch.

“We are extremely delighted with the successful launch and the very positive response from our customers,” said Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Mercedes Car Group, responsible for Sales and Marketing.

Test drives are also very much in demand, and about 7,000 test drives have already been conducted with the new C-Class since last weekend. An additional 10,000 customers have made appointments for test drives within the next few days.

The new C-Class will be introduced to the remaining markets in the coming months.

[Guest angela]

25 years ago, Mercedes-Benz introduced the Model 190 and laid the foundations for what has become the bestselling model series in the history of the brand: the C-Class. To date around six million C-Class Saloons, Estates and Sports Coupés have been delivered to customers.

At the beginning of the 1980s, the news that Mercedes-Benz was working on a new model series below the E-Class was a sensation, and gave rise to a great deal of speculation. Seldom before had the press reported so often and so exhaustively about a secret prototype as about the "compact" Mercedes-Benz, which soon became world-famous as the "Baby Benz" even before its launch.

The new car was the culmination of many years of deliberation for the Stuttgart brand. The compact Saloon met the wishes of car buyers, while offering Mercedes-Benz the opportunity to establish itself in a new market segment and gain additional customers. Moreover, there were increasing calls for more economical cars, and with the Model 190 Mercedes-Benz was able to demonstrate that its typically high standards of safety and comfort could also be realised in a more compact and economical model.

Accordingly the requirements confronting the development engineers were very stringent, as they needed to reconcile fuel consumption related criteria such as a low weight and good aerodynamics with Mercedes standards of occupant safety, handling stability, comfort and quality. The aim was to develop a true Mercedes-Benz which was 30 centimetres shorter, ten centimetres narrower and 280 kilograms lighter than the Mercedes medium range at the time (W 123), and which would consume an average of only 8.5 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. The engineers were able to achieve their goal with the help of the latest development and calculation tools, as well as the use of newly developed lightweight materials. Accordingly the Mercedes-Benz 190 also became a technological trendsetter in automobile engineering.

The Saloon was well ahead of its time, with a safety concept that reflected the results of accident research and already took offset frontal collisions into account. Neither was any other car in this class able to offer an anti-lock braking system, bent tensioners and an airbag, which were available as optional equipment, in the early 1980s. The still unrivalled multi-link independent rear suspension celebrated its world debut in the Mercedes-Benz 190, as did the first high-strength steel alloys which combine minimal weight with maximum strength.

Mercedes-Benz also broke new ground with the Model 190 where design was concerned. The angular, trapezoid form of the bodyshell and unusually high rear end ensured plenty of attention. Mercedes-Benz later transferred these basic lines to other model series – making the "Baby Benz" the pioneer of a new design idiom which characterised saloons bearing the Mercedes star until the early 1990s.

The design concept also reflected the latest technical findings, for the high, tucked-in rear end enabled the engineers to lower the air resistance of the bodyshell considerably. The resulting drag coefficient of 0.33 was 25 percent below the average for all passenger cars at the time.

In this way intelligent lightweight construction and exemplary aerodynamics provided two important prerequisites for a favourable fuel consumption. The Mercedes-Benz 190 with the 66 kW/90 hp four-cylinder carburettor engine had a Euromix petrol consumption of 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres, while the 190 E (90 kW/122 hp) with the first mechanically/electronically controlled fuel injection system was able to cover 100m kilometres on just 8.3 litres of petrol. In autumn 1983 Mercedes-Benz rounded off the engine range with a newly developed diesel unit. The 190 D (53 kW/72 hp) was happy with 6.6 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

Like the Mercedes-Benz 190 introduced 25 years ago, the new C-Class sets new trends in design and technology. No other car in this vehicle class is able to offer Mercedes safety innovations such as the preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and the Intelligent Light System. The new C-Class also asserts its leading position in this market segment with the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system and the situation-related shock absorber control system of the AGILITY CONTROL package. There is a choice of four and six-cylinder engines generating up to 13 percent more output than before, while consuming up to six percent less fuel. Apart from the S-Class, the new C-Class is the only car worldwide to possess an official environmental certificate which confirms the environmentally compatible development of this Mercedes model.

A look back at 25 years of the C-Class also reveals parallels between the two Saloons in styling terms. Both represent something new for their time, and both have set design trends. Just as the trapezoid, "cut diamond" design of the Mercedes-Benz 190 paved the way for a future Mercedes design idiom in its time, the new C-Class is also an ambassador for a new design style. The emphasis here is on purity of form, with the designers following the rules of modern purism and reinterpreting them in a modern context. Owing to an interplay between tightly drawn lines and large, tranquil surfaces, the design expresses unruffled calm and power, and symbolises the technical superiority of cars bearing the Mercedes star.

Mercedes-Benz first realised this new design idiom in the S-Class in 2005. The C-Class is yet another representative of these design lines, and therefore follows in the footsteps of the luxury models in the S and CL-Class – not as a copy, but as an individual and autonomous interpretation.

25 years ago, the Model 190 also marked a new styling departure with a redesign of the tradition-laden Mercedes radiator grille, which was no longer mounted but rather flush-fitted into the front end. In the new C-Class the radiator grille is likewise an important design feature with a high symbolic effect. This is because for the first time in a Saloon, Mercedes-Benz has used the radiator grille to position certain attributes even more unmistakably. With their three-dimensionally contoured radiator grille, the CLASSIC and ELEGANCE lines intentionally echo certain striking features of the S-Class to symbolise attributes such as solidity, power and luxury. In the AVANTGARDE line, the designers have opted for a visually even more striking radiator grille with wide louvres and a large, centrally located Mercedes star. This typical feature of the sporty Mercedes models underlines the dynamic, agile character of this model.

[Guest angela]

Hope it'll be launched here soon.

[Guest jenvid]

hehe... W203 0.26 Cd means.. if u are cruising at >90km/h... No rain drops will be on any of your windows except the windscreen when it rains. If it pours drive faster to achieve the same... :o

[Guest angela]

C to shining C: Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 280

Mar 17, 2007, Nick Syn

Can Mercedes’ brilliant new C-Class trump BMW’s all-conquering 3 Series?

THE FACT THAT the current C-Class plays second fiddle to the BMW 3 Series in nearly all respects must’ve sat like a large, oblong cactus in the stomachs of Mercedes-Benz execs. And it probably explains why this new, fourth-generation model has been so determinedly engineered to exorcise all of its predecessor’s shortcomings.

As an aside, during the press presentation, a howling Valencian coastal wind threatened to peel the roof off the theatre we were in, as if the car gods were admonishing the assembled throng of car journos to be kind to the fourth-generation C-Class.

In actual fact, Mercedes could’ve launched the car in a shed in the back of the Alexandra Road showroom and it wouldn’t have made much difference. This new one is a definite gem.

As before, there are three trim levels available globally, Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde, although whether all will be made available here is not yet known. The big difference with this new C-Class is that choosing between Avantgarde and Elegance spec means quite radically altering the car’s appearance.

Elegance cars get a more traditional multiple-slat front grille, and gunsight bonnet emblem. Avantgarde cars get a triple-slat grille with a centrally mounted three-pointed star, like the ones on Mercedes’ coupe models.

The car looks like a baby S-Class, and this visual link can’t help but make you consider the E-Class somewhat incongruous, and consequently obsolete.

Mercedes has also devoted much effort to making sure that the C-Class’ aggressive shape is aerodynamically optimal. Engineers have even gone to the extent of incorporating the function of a bootlid spoiler into the design of the tail lamps.

The tail lamps actually channel air from vents under the rear bumper out through special slits in their leading edges. This helps to cleanly separate the airflow from the car’s body, preventing turbulence that would otherwise cause rear axle lift.

The car tested here is an Elegance spec C 280. A larger engined C 350 variant will also be available when the car is officially launched in Europe.

C 180 and C 200 variants will follow later, featuring tweaked versions of Mercedes’ existing supercharged four-cylinder engines, as will a C 230 entry-level V6 model. A high-performance AMG version, the C 63, will feature a 400bhp plus V8, and is set to make its debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Driving it

The new C-Class comes with what Mercedes calls ‘Agility Control’ as standard (the recently facelifted E-Class also features this system). The highlight of this package is a set of amplitude dependent dampers, which passively react to varying suspension loadings.

How a car behaves when it is driven on twisty roads with scant care for the concept of socially responsible motoring depends very much on how suspension and tyre grip conspire to manage weight transfer. Turning a car into any corner is essentially a fight to stop the thing from wanting to go straight on.

In the best drivers cars, you remain essentially unaware of this process, it’s all lovely lightness and fluidity. In the worst, there’s lurching, pitching, constant steering corrections, and much gnashing of teeth.

Happily, the new C-Class happens to rank amongst the very best, and in this regard quite comprehensively addresses criticism over the old model’s dynamic inferiority to the BMW 3 Series.

Turn-in is impressively sharp, but the C-Class seems to eschew the bloodhound urgency with which a 3 Series will pivot about its driver. This isn’t a criticism per se, in fact the way the C-Class layers on a veneer of dignity over frenzy is quite er, classy.

The steering is feather light, which will please existing owners, but devoid of feel. Luckily, the chassis more than makes up for this.

It offers both compliance and tautness in delightfully well-judged measures, serving up proper limo-like refinement and cushiness, and discipline master-type authoritativeness with regards to body control, almost magically whenever you ask.

The C 280 is a quick car, but such is the general refinement that you barely notice the speed. Stomp on the gas and the 0 to 100km/h sprint takes just 7.3 seconds.

As good as the standard setup is, you can also specify an Advanced Agility Control package that comprises a set of electronically controlled adaptive dampers, stiffer anti-roll bars, quicker steering as well as lower springs. With the dampers set to sport mode, you also get sharper throttle response.

The C 280’s 231bhp V6 is a familiar unit, already pulling duty in cars like the SLK and S-Class. That said, Mercedes must’ve tweaked it in its application in the new C-Class as the engine now seems smoother and quieter than before.

It still doesn’t quite rev with the preternatural eagerness of a BMW straight-six, but it’s a decent performer, and quite well suited to Mercedes’ seven-speed automatic.

Inside it

The new C-Class’ interior architecture isn’t exactly what you’d call particularly exciting-looking, quite the opposite in fact.

It is a nice and roomy place to be in, though. Mercedes has made the new car a lot wider and longer than the old one, and this is immediately apparent in the cabin. The front in particular, is positively cavernous.

More importantly, though, build quality marks a big improvement over the current car.

Everything actually feels properly expensive, from the simple but elegant instruments to the Comand control system borrowed from the S-Class.

The C-Class’ Command system uses a baby version of the S-Class’ rotary controller, but boasts just as impressively crisp a display screen, the latter motors into view from a hidden panel on the top of the dashboard when activated. The system can also play movies and music via a built-in 4GB hard drive.

If you’re generous with the options list, the sky’s the limit. Aside from niceties like a panoramic glass roof and keyless entry, you can also boss the car about, quite literally, by barking instructions to it via an enhanced Linguatronic interface. Dollars and Sense

The good news is that Mercedes intends to keep prices for the new car the same as they are for current models, adjusting for inflation.

Still, it’s hard to say how much the cars will cost here as that very much depends on equipment levels.

Conclusion

Mercedes didn’t just need the C-Class to be good, it needed it to be outstanding. And the new car is exactly that.

If you’re the sort who privileges the drive above all else, the 3 Series still has the ultimate edge, but for everyone else, the C-Class should do nicely.

NEED TO KNOW

ENGINE 2,996cc 24V V6

MAX POWER 231bhp @ 6,000rpm

MAX TORQUE 300Nm @ 2,500rpm

GEARBOX Seven-speed automatic

TOP SPEED 250km/h (ELECTRONICALLY LIMITED)

0-100km/h 7.3 seconds

PRICE TBA

WARRANTY 3 YEARS/100,000 KM

[Guest Cklasse]

Spoke to the C&C person, the W204 will not come with the pop-up LCD screen as standard for Singapore. It's optional.

[g8crasher]

RHD C made in East London, SA ?

[Guest angela]

Good news! The New W204 C-Class sedan for the Singapore market will be fully assembled in Germany!

One-up over the current South Africa-assembled 3-series sedan! ;D

[g8crasher]

Good news! The New W204 C-Class sedan for the Singapore market will be fully assembled in Germany!

One-up over the current South Africa-assembled 3-series sedan!

:slayer: :slayer: wunderbar

[Guest angela]

Good news! The New W204 C-Class sedan for the Singapore market will be fully assembled in Germany!

One-up over the current South Africa-assembled 3-series sedan! ;D

Does that equate pricey?

[Guest angela]

As a guide, the previous W203 C200 Kompressor saloon (Elegance) clearance price was $148,888 when the COE was only around $16k in April compared to almost $19k now.

Pls sms/call me at 9781-9141 after this Fri (8th Jun) for the pricing/specs of the New C200 Kompressor saloon which I personally expect to be above $150k. If you are interested in having a sneak preview of the New C-Class before it is officially launched in July, let me know as well as it is strictly by appointment only.

[Guest angela]

Taken from mycarforum: "The C200 is $156k, with free upgrade to the avantgarde version."

Wonder when will it be available for a test drive?

[Guest angela]

The W204 New C-Class saloon which will set new standards in the luxury sports sedan segment is now officially OPEN FOR BOOKING! See www.c-for-yourself.com.sg

The price for the C200 Kompressor Elegance saloon will be $156,888 inclusive of guaranteed COE, 1 year road tax and GST (expected delivery from August to October). Those who book now before the actual car is launched in July will get a FREE UPGRADE TO THE AVANTGARDE MODEL!!!

A sneak preview of the New C-Class's design, features, technology, colours etc (w/o actual car) is now available for viewing strictly by registration on an appointment basis only. Those interested, please call/sms me.

Thanks,

Eddie Tan

9781-9141

[Guest angela]

Testdrive will be available once the car is launched, probably sometime next month!

Btw, first batch is almost fully booked! Call now for a viewing & booking if you don't want to wait till the end of the year to enjoy the revolutionary sexy W204 C-Class!

Cheers,

Darren

9751-3057