New Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan and wagon

The new C-Class offers the comfort zone of the future in times of global change. As the first classic Mercedes-Benz model range, it is fully electrified thanks to plug-in hybrids and mild hybrids with integrated starter-alternator and 48-volt installation. The first cars will appear in showrooms in the summer of 2021.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2021

The C-Class has been the best-selling Mercedes-Benz model of the last decade. The previous generation, introduced in 2014 only in Limousine and Estate versions, gained more than 2.5 million buyers. The latest C-Class takes another significant step forward in terms of digitization and high quality. Its exterior design combines sensual transparency with sporty and elegant accents. At first glance, the dynamic proportions are impressive - a short front overhang and a longer rear wheelbase and a long wheelbase, as well as a bulged engine hood. To maintain classic proportions, the windshield and interior have moved back.

With a length of 4751 mm and a width of 1820 mm, the sedan and wagon versions are noticeably larger than before. The wheelbase has increased by 25 mm to 2865 mm. Despite the increase in dimensions, the air drag coefficient Cd remained at the level of its predecessors (sedan: 0.24, station wagon: 0.27).

Drivers – both front and rear – benefit from the large body dimensions of the new C-Class. Elbow room has been increased by 22mm at the front and 15mm at the rear compared to its predecessor. Rear headroom increased by 13 mm (wagon: by 11 mm). Combined with 35 mm more legroom for rear passengers, the ride in the second row of seats is even more enjoyable.

The previous generation of the C-Class already featured an exceptionally attractive interior design. The new version of the model represents an even higher level in this respect. Inside, there are many accents from the new S-Class, but in a sporty interpretation. This is emphasized by the architecture of the cabin - the instrument panel and the central display are slightly tilted towards the driver. The instrument cluster functions as a freestanding 10.25” and 12.3” high resolution LCD screen. The shift towards digitization is also noticeable in the central touch screen (9.5″ or 11.9″). Its vertical orientation is convenient, especially when using navigation. Both screens visually float above the dashboard.

MBUX latest generation

Like the new S-Class, the new C-Class is equipped with the second generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) operating system. The interior is becoming even more digital and intelligent as significant advances have been made in both hardware and software – brilliant visuals make it easier to control the car's functions. Also, the voice assistant “Hello Mercedes” has become more interactive. Some actions, such as answering a phone call, can now be ordered without even entering the "Hey Mercedes" password. The assistant also "knows how" to explain the functions of the car, for example, tell you how to connect a smartphone via Bluetooth or where to find a first aid kit. In addition, thanks to the Smart Home feature, you can use it to control smart home equipment remotely. Hey, Mercedes also knows how to recognize passengers by voices.

Drive system: systematic electrification of modern 4-cylinder engines

With systematic electrification and intelligent downsizing, the new C-Class sets new standards in efficiency. The powertrain range only includes 4-cylinder engines from the Mercedes FAME engine family (modular engine family). Thus, it plays an important role in the flexibility of the international production network with individual electrification. In addition to turbocharging, both diesel and petrol units have an integrated alternator starter (ISG) that - like a second-generation mild hybrid - provides support at low engine speeds.

Transmission: Automatic transmission is now standard on all versions.

The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission has been upgraded for the ISG and is now fitted to all versions of the C-Class. The electric motor, power electronics and radiator have been moved into the box without the need for cabling, for ease of installation and weight. . In addition, the efficiency of the transmission has been increased. Example: Optimized interaction with an additional electric oil pump allows the consumption of a mechanical pump to be reduced by 30 % compared to its predecessor in the interest of efficiency. In addition, there is a new, fully integrated transmission control system with multi-core processor and new connection technology. In addition to increased processing power, the number of electrical interfaces has been significantly reduced and the weight of the gearbox controls has been reduced on the 30% compared to its predecessor.

At the same time, the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system was developed. The new front-wheel drive allows more torque to be transmitted with an axle load distribution that is ideal for driving dynamics. What's more, it has a significant weight advantage over its predecessor solution, helping to reduce CO2 emissions. The engineers have also managed to reduce friction losses in the new junction box.

Plug-in hybrids with a range of about 100 km "on electricity" (WLTP)

Fourth-generation plug-in hybrids will be added to the range shortly after the launch of the new C-Class. Electrification is taking a giant leap forward using the same basic engines. The combination of an electric unit with a power of 129 hp. and a range of approximately 100 km in pure electric mode (WLTP) means that the C-Class plug-in hybrid will in many cases be able to run "electrically" only, without the need for a combustion engine. it will initially be a 2-litre variant of the state-of-the-art 4-cylinder M 254 engine. It will be followed by the Sedan and Combi with a plug-in hybrid diesel engine.

The plug-in version of the high-voltage battery developed by Mercedes-Benz AG for the new C-Class belongs to the fourth-generation battery family. It consists of 96 cells and has a total capacity of 25.4 kWh. To ensure high energy density, the battery is equipped with an internal cooling system. This allows the temperature management system to control the operating temperature independently of cabin ventilation. In addition to working harmoniously in hot and cold regions, this enables fast DC charging. Even when the battery is completely discharged, it can be "recharged" in about 30 minutes using the optional 55kW DC charger. A standard 11kW AC three-phase charger (depending on market) for AC charging is also available.

Innovative DIGITAL LIGHT headlights

The optional DIGITAL LIGHT headlights are taken from the S-Class. The light of each such reflector is refracted and directed through 1.3 million micromirrors. Thus, the resolution of the headlights is more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle. DIGITAL LIGHT headlights offer the function of projecting characters onto the road surface. By displaying guide lines, signs or animations, they can further enhance driving safety.

Rear steered axle: agile and more dynamic handling

The new C-Class is particularly agile and stable, among other things. thanks to an optional rear steer axle linked to more direct steering of the front wheels. The angle of rotation of the rear wheels is up to 2.5 degrees. This reduces the turning circle by 43 cm to 10.64 m.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz