Super C breaks surface

The locally built C-Class model range will initially consist of the C 180 the C 200, the C 220 BlueTEC and the C 250.

“The order process has now commenced at all Mercedes-Benz dealerships throughout Southern Africa, and we will see the local launch of our all new and exciting model in June 2014. Model variants with the higher capacity engines will be introduced at a later stage,” says Selvin Govender, Divisional Manager, Product and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The C-Class has grown –with an 80-millimetre increase in the wheelbase (2840 millimetres) compared with the previous model. The vehicle is 95 millimetres longer (4686 millimetres) and 40 millimetres wider (1810 millimetres). The resultant additional space benefits first and foremost the rear passengers, while the new C-Class also outstrips its predecessor in terms of boot capacity, at 480 litres.

Outside there is a choice of two different faces: sporty with centrally positioned star or – for the Exclusive line only – the classic saloon radiator grille featuring the Mercedes-Benz star on the bonnet.

The new C-Class comes with H7 halogen headlamps as standard. In addition to the standard-fit headlamps, two energy-saving LED variants are available: a static system and a dynamic version with “LED Intelligent Light System”.

The innovative touchpad in the hand-rest over the Controller on the centre tunnel marks a further evolutionary step developed in-house. As on a smartphone, this provides for very simple and intuitive operation of all the head-unit functions using finger gestures. The touchpad also permits letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting – in any language. The user receives clear haptic feedback when operating the touchpad’s control surface, which is highly conducive to genuine intuitive use.

A head-up display is also new to the C-Class. It displays important information directly in the driver’s field of vision on the front windscreen, thus providing for clear legibility and keeping the driver’s focus closer to the road ahead. The system provides information on vehicle speed and navigation instructions and displays messages from Distronic Plus.

The C180 produces 115kW and 250Nm, the C220 125kW and 400Nm, the C200 135 and 300Nm and the C250 155 and 350Nm. All the diesel engines of the new C-Class are equipped with the established SCR technology (selective catalytic reduction) for particularly environment-friendly driving.

The BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines of the C-Class benefit from the technology transferred from the V6 and V8 engines to the four-cylinder engine. The direct injection system with spray-guided combustion, employs a multiple injection process which is precision-controlled by means of an electronic system. The third-generation direct injection technology is complemented by “fast multiple ignition”.

Depending on the installed output ratings, Mercedes-Benz offers the new 6-speed manual transmissions for the four-cylinder engines in the new C-Class or automatic gear by way of the 7G-tronic Plus automatic transmission.

The suspension on the new C-Class is a totally new development. A newly designed 4-link front axle means the independent suspension is fully decoupled from the spring strut. The resultant favourable axle kinematics allow more grip and higher lateral stability. As a result, the suspension responds more sensitively to steering movements. The rear has an optimised multi-link independent rear suspension with 5-link concept.

The new C-Class sedan is fitted as standard with a steel suspension. Three Direct Control suspensions with selective damping system are available in conjunction with this suspension, dependent on exterior package selection: a comfort suspension; a comfortable Avantgarde suspension with a sportier character and; a sports suspension lowered by 15mm.

Alternatively, the new C-Class can be fitted with an air suspension (Airmatic) on the front and rear axles. Thanks to electronically controlled, continuous variable damping at the front and rear, the driver can use the Agility Select switch to choose between the various characteristics: “Comfort”, “ECO”, “Sport” and “Sport+”. The additional “Individual” option enables drivers to configure their vehicle according to their own wishes. Airmatic also features all-round self-levelling for optimum ride comfort even when the vehicle is loaded.

The new C-Class also comes with an electric parking brake. This s released automatically when the driver ends parking mode with the aim of moving off.

In addition to Adaptive Brake Assist, which offers protection from collisions from speeds as low as 7 km/h, standard-fit Collision Prevention Assist Plus also features an additional function: when a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200km/h, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 50km/h, and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 40km/h.

Other options are Active Parking Assist, which enables automated parking with active steering and brake intervention in both parallel and end-on parking spaces,

A 360° camera, which is able to show the vehicle and its surroundings from various perspectives, including a virtual bird’s eye view.

A Bluetooth-capable mobile phone with data option is all it takes to make the Audio 20 system internet-capable. This enables the internet to be surfed without restrictions when the vehicle is stationary. While on the move, Mercedes-Benz Apps such as Weather, GoogleTM Local Search with StreetView and Panoramio, Destination/Route Download and Facebook can be used.

The new C-Class Saloon can be ordered with immediate effect from all authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships throughout Southern Africa.

As with all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, the new C-Class comes standard with the class-leading PremiumDrive maintenance plan – 6-year/100 000km – with no customer contribution.

– Own Correspondent