Mercedes will unveil the facelift version of the C-Class in January 2011 at the Detroit Auto Show, but since today’s automakers seem to be working part-time as Gossip Girls, the first details of the future vehicle have already been revealed.
According to Mercedes, the new C-Class will get more than 2,000 new parts compared to the previous model, including an advanced seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic Plus that will be available starting June 2011 (for all models except C300 CDI 4Matic). The facelifted C-Class will also be receiving a new front and rear design, more power from a new V6 engine, and improved fuel consumption.
Customers will have the option of choosing from 11 different models, with power ranging from 120 to 306 HP. These models can either get new halogen headlights as standard or bi-xenon headlights with the Intelligent Light System.
Sales will begin in March 2011.
Hit the jump to read more about the facelifted Mercedes C-Class.
Exterior and Interior
For the exterior, Mercedes is offering a redesigned front bumper that offers a more dynamic appearance, a new grille, LED daytime running lights at the bottom of the bumper, and the new aluminum hood. For the rear, the C-Class gets a new bumper and revised LED tail lights.
Also, as with all the latest Mercedes models, the new C-Class will be offered with Attention Assist, an active Blind Spot Assist, an active lane-keeping assistant, and adaptive cruise control Distronic Plus. There is also a new optional telematics system on board. The navigation system has a three-dimensional representation of the city with plastic models and allows the driver to request a choice of five routes - including a particularly economical routing.
Engine Line-up
As previously stated, customers will have to choose from 11 different models, both petrol and diesel, but the most impressive change was made for the Mercedes C350 Blue Efficiency who received a new V6 gasoline engine that delivers a total of 306 hp and 370 Nm - 14 HP and five Newton meters more than the previous model. Despite the power increase, the consumption has been lowered by 31% compared to the previous model.
Customers will have to choose from a standard manual six-speed transmission or a seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic Plus. All models will be offered with rear-wheel drive and a start-stop function.
The Competition
All of these changes are more than welcomed considering the strong competition for the C-Class. The BMW 3 Series, Volkswagen Passat, and the Opel Insignia are just a few vehicles that are just chomping at the bit to nip the C-Class, especially since all of them have received a recent redesign.
The BMW 3-Series may seem like the only real competitor on this list, but don’t underestimate the others. The Passat is a huge hit on the European market and the Insignia has also become a very successful model.
When Can I Buy One?
The facelift Mercedes C-Class will make its world debut in January 2011 at the Detroit Auto Show with sales to begin in March. Prices will be announced at a later date.
