Mercedes-Benz has always been an iconic brand in South Africa, and it’s not hard to believe that they are the best-selling luxury brand in the world to date. By upholding their status, they must ensure that their bestseller, the Mercedes C-Class, stays on top of the list.
Mercedes-Benz ensures this by introducing new upgrades for the C-Class, which brings it right up to par with the rest of the Mercedes-Benz model portfolio. The C-Class model’s success is all thanks to the massive investment Mercedes has put into its East London plant, ensuring that the new C-Class will continue to withstand their local assembly.
What is new to the Mercedes C-Class?1
When it comes to the exterior of the new C-Class it’s quite hard to notice any further changes. There are some subtle differences to the grille and bumpers. The C-Class has revised the head and tail lights, depending on the trim level of the C-Class. You can choose the LED high-performance headlights, or the very impressive Multibeam LED units with Ultra Range, which Mercedes-Benz boasts about. These headlights can illuminate the road by up to 600 metres.
Mercedes-Benz has advanced the interior, infotainment system, ergonomics and engine quite significantly with the new C-Class. Mercedes-Benz claims that they have changed more than 6000 parts on the new C-Class. They turned their focus specifically on the electronics of the new C-Class. The new electronics on the C-Class has incorporated the latest safety system from Mercedes-Benz’s semi-autonomous driving capability that they claim to be right on par with their S-Class range.
When it comes to the interior of the new Mercedes C-Class, the first change you will notice is the steering wheel. It is taken from the E-Class Mercedes, looking more superior and you can activate the C-Class’ cruise control straight from the steering wheel compared to the old stalk version from the previous model. The steering wheel also comes with easy to use smartphone-like swipe buttons.
A fantastic new feature in the cabin is the new 12.3-inch digital dashboard, even though this is an added option, it is well worth the choice. The infotainment screen has new software that will please the most tech and non-tech savvy user. It represents the same features as a smartphone, which has excellent graphics with smooth and intuitive technology, setting the bar quite high from the previous generation C-Class.
How are the Mercedes C-Class powertrain changes? 1
There are many engines to choose from, even some with an electric assist option. The whole new Mercedes C-Class range will now feature a new 9-speed automatic gearbox, compared to the old 7-speed automatic gearbox.
The C200’s engine is small with only a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine pushing out a credible 135kW and a 280 Nm of torque and being assisted by a 48V electrical system which alone provides 10kW of power and 160Nm of torque. This makes its powertrain stand out from the rest of the range.
With the investment set at R10 billion, the future of the East London plant is looking very bright, and an expected increase in the production line is inevitable shortly. With the new C-Class Mercedes-Benz, there is a more upmarket feel to it, a far cry from the previous cabins finishes and build quality. The new Mercedes C-Class is a great car and should remain at being the brand’s number one seller in South Africa and internationally. With all the latest technology, it will also strip away the “old man’s car” image.
Remember to do thorough research before you buy your next car.
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