Mercedes-Benz C-Class Facelift

Mercedes-Benz will launch its ravishing and upgraded C-Class Facelift in India on September 20, 2018. It is code named the W205. The C- Class facelift may seem identical to the older version but there have been some significant upgrades especially in the engine. The front of the car has been significantly redesigned with the cosmetic updates in the headlamps, tail lamps and the bumpers. The new engine complies with the upcoming BSVI emission norms. The C-Class will be offered in a C 200 avatar with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine also with mild-hybrid tech. On the other hand C-300 will feature a 2.0-litre petrol engine. This will also be a petrol version while the 2.0 diesel engine will be available in C 220 d and C 300 d.

Design and Style-

• Exterior-

At 4686mm x 1810mm x 1442mm (LxWxH), the C-Class facelift is identical to its forerunner in size. The wheelbase also remains unchanged at 2840mm.

The multi-slat honeycomb detailing grille has been substituted by a new single-slat chrome-studded grille that is bordered by the new, slightly twisted headlamps. The front bumper has also been given a new design that makes it look stunning.

Talking about the back of the car there isn't any major change in the new model. Just that the tail lamps are a little more detailed now.

• Interior-

Although there are not many noticeable changes on the inside but yes there are some. The basic cabin layout remains unaltered and has the same 7-inch infotainment screen with Audio 20 multimedia system.

However, the display gets better with more options to choose from.  It has a 10.25-inch screen for the central infotainment and the 12.3-inch digital display for the driver that offers three display styles: Classic, Sport and Progressive.

The drivers will enjoy the comfort of the new steering. The steering now has touch-sensitive controls instead of physical buttons and this makes it easier for the drivers to control the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. Cruise control buttons are on the steering unlike like in the pre-facelift model.

The C-Class gets even better with the ‘energizing comfort control’ as optional. It links various comfort systems in the vehicle like the air conditioning system (including fragrance), seats (heater, ventilation and massage) and music system to provide a tailored ambience.

Now you can talk to your car because the new C- Class also has the new voice control system which allows the user to choose from more than 450 commands to control and monitor features like air conditioning, ambient lighting etc. The updated C-Class will also have wireless charging for smartphones.  It has a 225W nine-speaker sound system for you to enjoy your music on the go.

The updated C-Class is equipped with various safety and autonomous driving technology derived from the S-Class. While we will have to wait to see what features will be available in India. The other features that we would expect to be carried forward are a panoramic sunroof, LED headlamps, multiple driving modes, agility control and a two-zone climate control.

Engine-

This is what will provide the new Mercedes-Benz C- Class its unique identity. The C-Class facelift will get BSVI petrol and diesel engines in India. Mercedes-Benz has worked on providing a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol motor with EQ Boost (mild hybrid) for the C 200. While a 1950cc diesel engine for the C 220 d and C 300 d.

The C-Class facelift will also be available in C 300 avatar. This will be motorized by a 2.0-litre petrol engine that makes 258PS of maximum power and 370Nm of peak torque.

In comparison with the present C200 that has a 2.0- liter petrol engine makes 184PS/300Nm, the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine makes 184PS of maximum power and 280Nm of peak torque.

On the other hand the 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine (220 d) generates 194PS of maximum power and 400Nm of peak torque which is 24PS more than the current C 220 d engine.

In the 300 d, the 2.0-litre diesel engine generates 245PS of maximum power and 500Nm of peak torque.

Price-

• The expected price of updated Mercedes-Benz C-Class is likely to be from Rs 39.9 lakh to Rs 45.40 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) almost the same as the price of the current C- Class.
• It is expected to be launched in October 2018. The competitors may include the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and the upcoming Volvo S60 sedan.