With the introduction of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Mercedes has logically sought to further differentiate its entry-level model from its upscale cousin, the E-Class. What might seem a bit surprising, however, is that Mercedes has also chosen to differentiate the C-Class from itself.
There is no question that with 1.4 million C-Class sedans having been sold worldwide since 2000 (more than two million total when you combine the sedan, wagon and sports coupe models) the vehicle is Mercedes-Benz's best-seller. With such a large and inevitably diverse clientele, it can be difficult to please everyone, yet this is what Mercedes is clearly trying to do.
For this reason, after heading down to your local Mercedes-Benz dealership to fill out an order form for your new C-Class, the first decision you will likely make will be between the Luxury or the Sport version. Mercedes has identified two distinct customers for its top-seller: those who prefer to be coddled in comfort and elegance, and those who want prefer a little more bite to their sedan.
The two versions can be easily distinguished by a look at the front grille. The Sport version will feature a three-louver grille with a prominently positioned star emblem, while the luxury version will receive a painted, three dimensional version. Interior trim will also vary depending on upon which model is chosen.
The overall styling of the new C-Class features taut bodywork, similar in style to the S-Class. Slightly flared fenders and a crease that runs up the side of the sedan make for a sportier appearance and distinguishes it from its Benz bretheren.
For the U.S., expect the engine range to be the C280 V-6 (228 horsepower), C350 V-6 (268 horsepower) and the C550 V-8 (380 horsepower), all with the automaker's seven-speed automatic. After a year a C55 AMG is expected. If the current German horsepower war continues, there's room under the hood for a C63 AMG, ready to out-gun even the upcoming V-8-engined BMW M3.
The new C-Class uses front strut suspension with two lower-arms, and a multi-link rear axle - familiar Benz principles. The main chassis innovation is a new type of amplitude-dependent damper, able to provide extra compliance over small bumps for ride comfort but stiffening up during bigger movements caused by sharp steering maneuvers. The system is entirely hydraulic - there's no electronic intervention.
The bodyshell is a claimed 13 percent more torsionally rigid than before, enhancing comfort by reducing vibration, as well as giving the potential for more precise handling. Around 70 percent of the new body is high-strength steel, which improves the strength-to-weight ratio. There is no significant aluminum in the body, and less in the suspension than competitors use.
Technologically, the new C-Class receives a host of improvements. New for 2008 is the Agility Control suspension that automatically adjusts damping settings depending on driving conditions. Another highlight is the Adaptive Brake system gleamed from the S-Class, which provides settings for a number of special circumstances including drying wet brakes.
Other optional features include the Command APS multimedia system, containing a 4-gigabyte music storage server, DVD player, voice activation, and navigation unit.
The redesigned C-Class is scheduled to hit showrooms in late summer 2007. The company did not give out final pricing, but said an entry-level version would cost less than $39,000 (30,000 euros) in Germany to start.