Merely weeks after making its debut globally, Mercedes-Benz officially launched its all-new C-Class in India today. Initially, only the C 200 petrol variant would be on sale, priced at INR 40.90 Lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi. As it did with other new models in the recent past, Mercedes-Benz India would be importing the first lots of C-Class sedans from Germany with local production expected to start sometime next year.
Based on the new, light-weight Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) platform, the all-new C-Class adopts the styling direction pioneered by the latest S-Class. Up front, the twin-slat radiator grille adorned with the three-pointed star and the muscular hood with well-defined creases sets the tone for an athletic stance. The long hood, the coupe-like 'sloping' roofline and the short overhangs, together with those prominent character lines, carries the stance forward in profile while the short and stubby rear is an exact replica of the S-Class. The headlights and the taillights are both beautifully-shaped and exquisitely-detailed. Its just that the new C looks a lot like the S-Class, which isn't bad at all.
The interiors are completely revamped too and looks to be a quantum leap over the previous-gen C-Class. The sporty, 3-spoke steering wheel, the circular air-conditioner vents and the tablet-like multimedia screen jutting out of the dashboard are things that we have seen in other Mercedes-Benz models too. The layout is minimalist and clean, which is sure to be a hit amongst consumers. As expected, feature-list is exhaustive too. Satellite navigation, three-zone automatic climate control, LED ambient cabin lighting, panoramic sunroof, a high-resolution 8.4-inch screen controlled by a click wheel and a touch pad, powered front seats and a 13-speaker Burmster audio system are all part of the standard kit.
As usual, safety is top-notch with the original 'Baby Benz' now boasting seven airbags, Antilock Braking System (ABS), Adaptive Brake with Hill Start Assist, Attention Assist, Electronic Stability Program, Curve Dynamic Assist, PRE-SAFE system for preventive occupant protection and LED Intelligent Lighting system as standard. Powering the C 200 is a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that generates 181 bhp and 30.5 kgm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission. Other engine variants, including those powered by diesel, are expected to be launched going forward.
With the arrival of the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz has what could probably be the youngest model line-up in the luxury segment. The new C is expected to take the fight to BMW's 3-Series and Audi's A4 and bring back volumes and market share to Mercedes-Benz. Will it do that? We are sure it'll, but let's see.
The new C looks stunning but very similar to S class. Those paying more than 1 crore will expect exclusivity which is gone now. Will this backfire for Mercedes?
ReplyDeleteWe do not think this will backfire. In fact, Mercedes-Benz models haven't looked as sexy as they do now for decades.
Delete