The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a rival to the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Lexus IS. With its rivals all being replaced by either all-new versions or updated models, the new C-Class will have its work cut out for it.
The new C-Class is built locally and Merc’s production facility in East London following an investment of R13-billion which has inadvertently boosted the local economy. It’s one of 3 production sites for the C-Class (others include Bremen, Germany and Beijing, China) and the site has not only expanded by 100 000 square metres but over 500 high-tech robots have been installed and the facility is also more environmentally friendly than before.
“The new C-Class is a sportive incarnation of luxury. It combines dynamic proportions with reduced design lines and sculptural surfaces. I have no doubt that the new C-Class will excite current and future customers with its wide range of high-tech features derived from the flagship S-Class.With this latest edition, we are taking the next logical step on our road to the digital and sustainable future with a host of innovations and cutting-edge digital elements. I’m certain that our most successful model range will once again raise the bar as the most sophisticated offering in its segment,” said Mark Raine, Co- CEO for Mercedes Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa.
The new C-Class comes to market with a new look, but the real change will be found in the cabin, which is dominated by a large infotainment screen featuring the latest second-generation MBUX operating system.
Physically, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class has grown. In comparison to the old model, it’s 6.35cm longer, 1cm wider, but its roofline sits 1cm lower. In terms of luggage capacity, the new C-Class has the same capacity as the old version. Inside, the cabin dimensions have improved, with the wheelbase now 2.5cm longer, headroom 1.5cm higher while the front seat passenger gets a bit more shoulder room.
Kicking off the range is the petrol-powered C200. It features a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with EQ electric boost. Power outputs are pegged at 150 kW and 300 Nm. It’s said to consume between 6.6 – 6.8 L/100km.
For the diesel fans, the C220d features a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder with 147 kW and 550 Nm. It’ll be the more frugal of the two models offered, with a claimed consumption figure of 4.4 – 4.7 L/100km.
Both vehicles are rear-wheel-driven and feature a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Mercedes-Benz will alsobe offering a limited-edition C200 Edition 6 and only 400 units will be available to buyers. The Edition 6 can be had in either Spectral Blue and Selenite Grey and additional features such as AMG Line trim, 19-inch AMG alloy wheels, panoramic sliding sunroof and Agility Control are standard.
You can get a taste of what to expect with our Mercedes-Benz C-Class international launch review here, but we will soon be testing the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class on local soil, so look out for a thorough review very soon!
Mercedes-Benz SA has tried to simplify its intensive options list by creating packages that incorporate the most popular add-ons.
Advanced Package (No cost option)
Folding rear seat backrestsTHERMATICIndividual climate comfortUSB packageCentral displayAVANTGARDE interiorAVANTGARDE exterior
Advanced-Plus Package R21000
Advanced package plus the following:
Driver displayWireless chargingAmbient lightingIlluminated door sill panels
Premium Package R62000
Advanced Package+Advanced-Plus Package plus:
Memory packageMBUX Navigation PremiumParking Package with 360-degree camera
Premium-Plus Package R118000
Digital headlightHead-up DisplayTHERMOTRONIC automatic climate controlUSB package Plus(6 USB-C ports, 2x 12V sockets)MBUX augmented reality
Other noteworthy options include MBUX Navigation Premium R13900, Rear-axle steering R22400, Head-up Display R22000, and the AMG Line exterior for R54 000.
Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde – R857 280
Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line – R911 280
Mercedes-Benz C220d Avantgarde – R911 812
Mercedes-Benz C220d AMG Line – R965812
Mercedes-Benz C200 Edition 6 – R917380
Mercedes-Benz C-Class International Launch Review
Meet the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Key insights: 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class