A few days ago, we tested two extremely important launches for Mercedes, the C-Class and the GLA.
Magnificently racy, these two models seduced us with their class and design, as well as their engines.
New C-Class: Start the movement
With the all-new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz opens a new chapter in a successful series and sets new standards in the premium mid-range. Thanks to an intelligent lightweight design that saves 100 kg, outstanding aerodynamics and new, extremely fuel-efficient engines, the C-Class sets new benchmarks for efficiency in its class. Numerous innovative driver assistance systems ensure maximum safety, while a new chassis with optional air suspension offers exemplary ride and suspension comfort, and light, agile roadholding. In terms of aesthetics, the new C-Class sets the tone with its clear, emotionally charged lines and luxurious interior design. Numerous other innovations and equipment details underline the sedan’s performance-oriented comfort and refined sportiness. All in all, the real and perceived value of the new C-Class lends it an eminently upmarket aura. The new C-Class Saloon is now available to order. Customers will initially be able to choose between the C 180, C 200 and C 220 BlueTEC models.
The C-Class is Mercedes-Benz’s highest-volume range. Since its market launch in 2007, the previous model has sold over 2.4 million units. The new C-Class not only boasts a sensual, dynamic design and a host of technical innovations, but also a wide range of standard equipment and exemplary emissions and fuel consumption figures. The result is first-rate running costs and environmental friendliness.
To keep pace with the changing average stature of motorists, the dimensions of the C-Class have been increased. With a wheelbase 80 mm (2,840 mm) longer than the previous model, the vehicle is 95 mm (4,686 mm) longer and 40 mm (1,810 mm) wider. The extra space benefits rear passengers above all, who can travel in even greater comfort. At 480 liters (to ISO 3822), the trunk volume of the new C-Class is even greater than that of its predecessor.
Dynamic, sensual lines combined with clean lines
In visual terms, the new C-Class is a clear departure from its predecessor. Its striking, dynamic design expresses a sensuality and clarity that arouse emotion. Modern aesthetics inspired the sensual lines and surfaces of the new sedan, whose harmony and tension fascinate and move. The designers of the C-Class have created pure forms that underline its intelligent technology. Clearly defined surfaces are superbly stretched for a modern, emotional design. Precisely shaped lines and seductive plasticity create a striking interplay of light and shadow.
In profile, the eye is drawn to the C-Class’ balanced proportions, so characteristic of a sedan, with its long hood, deeply recessed cabin and short overhangs. The rear design is underlined by large-format wheels and stylish sportiness.
The customer can choose between two very different faces: a sporty style with a central star or – exclusively reserved for the Exclusive Pack – a grille with a Mercedes star on the hood, which can be hermetically sealed with slats to optimize Cx and superbly highlights the sedan’s refinement.
The new C-Class is equipped as standard with H7 halogen headlamps. In addition to the standard headlamps, the range includes two energy-saving LED variants: a static version and a dynamic model with “Intelligent Light System LED”. Their characteristic night-time design makes the C-Class instantly recognizable in the dark. Tail lights and brake lights integrated into the rear light clusters are LED on all models.
First-class interior enhanced by a host of refined details
Mercedes designers have staged the interior with a level of sophistication to which few vehicles, even in higher categories, have accustomed us. This ranges from the meticulous choice of top-of-the-range materials and their pleasant feel to the precision of certain refined details. The new design language combines sensuality and clarity with dynamic sportiness, contributing to the exceptionally high perceived value of the interior.
In the new C-Class, driver and front passenger enjoy a wonderful sense of space and modern, discreet luxury. The result is an atmosphere of well-being unparalleled in this class – those who sit in the new C-Class experience a sensation identical to that of a passenger upgraded to business class on board an aircraft.
In terms of interior design, Mercedes-Benz has boldly opted for a completely new concept. Designers have combined the layout of Mercedes-Benz sports cars with a perfectly reinterpreted, flowing center console with a sporty look. On automatic models, the absence of a gearshift lever enabled the designers to create a specific center console with an even more fluid, streamlined design. With maximum storage space.
Located in the handrest above the selector in the center tunnel, the innovative touchpad (standard in France) developed by Mercedes-Benz marks a new stage in development. Like a Smartphone, it enables easy, intuitive fingertip control of all system functions. The touchpad also enables handwritten input of letters, numbers and special characters in any language. By activating the touchpad surface, the user receives clear tactile feedback, very useful for truly intuitive operation.
Another new feature on the C-Class is a head-up display. Like a private jet, this displays key information at windshield level, in the driver’s direct field of vision, making it easy to read and preventing the driver from diverting his or her attention from traffic. The system provides information on speed, speed limits, navigation instructions and DISTRONIC messages.
Excellent CO2 values with a new compact diesel engine
The powerful, efficient diesel engines, all of which feature the ECO Stop/Start function and already comply with the Euro 6 emissions standard, guarantee muscular road performance and exceptional driving pleasure. At the same time, they boast up to 20% lower fuel consumption than the previous model.
At the vehicle’s market launch, customers can choose between three engines: a C 220 BlueTEC diesel version and two C 180 and C 200 petrol variants:
Shortly after the vehicle goes on sale, Mercedes-Benz will significantly expand the engine range. A new, small 1.6-liter diesel engine will complete the range. Its strengths include low weight, compact design and low specific fuel consumption. Depending on its design, the four-cylinder single-stage supercharger delivers 85 or 100 kW (115 or 136 hp) from a displacement of 1,598 cm3, and delivers rated torque of 280 or 320 Nm. Its Common Rail direct injection system operates at a maximum operating pressure of 1,600 bar. In terms of CO2 emissions, the new C-Class powered by this engine occupies a leading position in its segment.
In addition to this new compact diesel engine, the catalog will offer an already proven and perfected 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, available in several power versions. Diesel engine power ranges from 85 kW (115 hp) to 150 kW (204 hp). The C 220 BlueTEC will also be available as a BlueEFFICIENCY Edition with 125 kW (170 hp). All diesel engines in the new C-Class feature the SCR selective catalytic reduction technology inherited from the previous model, for particularly environmentally-friendly driving, and ensure that diesel-powered C-Class models are the most efficient and eco-responsible in the segment.
Third-generation BlueDIRECT direct-injection petrol engines
Five four-cylinder petrol engines will also be offered, ranging from 115 to 175 kW (156 to 238 hp), including the special C 180 ECO-Edition series.
The four-cylinder BlueDIRECT petrol engines in the C-Class combine spontaneous response and exemplary power delivery with high efficiency and low emissions to set a benchmark in its class. To achieve this, Mercedes-Benz has transferred the BlueDIRECT technology used on the V6 and V8 engines to its four-cylinder model. The jet-combustion direct injection system, which Mercedes-Benz was the first to offer as standard on passenger cars, is based on multiple injection with precise electronic control. Third-generation direct injection is complemented by “rapid multiple ignition”.
Hybrid model with four-cylinder diesel and petrol engine
As on the S-Class and E-Class, Mercedes-Benz will also be offering a diesel engine combined with a hybrid module. The C 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine and a compact electric motor, will deliver 150 + 20 kW (204 + 27 hp) and require only 3.9 liters of diesel in the combined cycle according to the new European combined cycle (provisional value). It will be followed by another economical hybrid model featuring state-of-the-art Plug In technology.
But also, the famous GLA, the compact SUV with mutile talents.
With the new GLA, Mercedes-Benz adds a fifth model to its SUV range. The GLA impresses above all with its fascinating design and everyday maneuverability. The GLA is the first SUV in the range to be available with the new generation of 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution as an option.
Fascinating in its design, which we have come to appreciate, serene in everyday driving and with off-road capability – as if strolling between the various worlds of the automobile, the GLA class impressively reinterprets the compact SUV segment. It masters and overcomes every challenge on a day-to-day basis, and is also robust enough for excursions off the beaten track.
The entry-level model in the GLA range is the GLA 200 with an output of 115 kW (156 hp). The most powerful petrol engine develops 155 kW (211 hp) and is available on the GLA 250 and GLA 250 4MATIC. The GLA 250 4MATIC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.1 seconds, underlining the GLA’s class-leading aspirations.
The two diesel engines are distinguished by high torque and unrivalled efficiency: the GLA 200 CDI, with a power output of 100 kW (136 hp), has a displacement of 2.2 liters and a maximum torque of 300 Nm. At 4.3 liters of diesel per 100 km, combined fuel consumption is outstanding for this power class. The GLA 200 CDI is also available in a 4MATIC version. The GLA 220 CDI also has a displacement of 2.2 liters, but with a power output of 125 kW (170 hp) and torque of 350 Nm.
With its three trim levels “Style”, “Urban” and “AMG Line”, its “Night” and “Exclusive” packages, as well as its various options, the GLA offers an extensive personalization program.
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