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The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class struts a new body, new interior and more equipment
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Preview – 2007 Geneva Auto Show: The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class represents the latest version of the automaker’s entry-level model. The C-Class competes directly with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS and Cadillac CTS. Debuting in the mid 1990s, the C-Class was a response to BMW’s popular 3 Series and has sported coupe, sedan and wagon bodies. The second generation car helped modernize the company’s styling language when it was introduced in the beginning of the decade. This third generation will be available this summer in the United States in three distinct models: the C300 Sport Sedan, C300 Luxury Sedan and C350 Sport Sedan, with an all-wheel-drive option coming in the fall.
The C-Class is Mercedes’ best seller, with 1.4 million cars sold worldwide since 2000. Getting the 2008 C-Class right is vitally important. Although the premium models such as the S-Class and E-Class showcase the latest technologies and newest engineering, it’s the entry-level C-Class that generates the most showroom traffic thanks to its lower – but still profitable – sticker price. Despite recent buzz in the automotive industry about economizing, the newer “B” class subcompacts, and green technology, premium carmakers like Mercedes-Benz are still seeing sales growth. To maintain that momentum, the C-Class must upstage other manufacturers’ offerings.
Mercedes offers 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class customers a choice of two V6 engines. The C300 will get a 3.0-liter V6, while C350s will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6. Output in the U.S. marketplace has not been announced, but European models displacing the same volume yield 231 and 272 horsepower, respectively. A seven-speed automatic transmission backs the C350 Sport and C300 Luxury as standard, and is optional on C300 Sport models. Adaptive suspension called Direct Control varies damping to favor comfort or handling, and all-wheel-drive arrives as an option this fall. Twin-spoke rims measure 17 inches in diameter, but Sport sedans get exclusive 18-inch wheels and tires.
The new 2008 C-Class injects Mercedes-Benz’s contemporary styling into the premium entry-level segment, with slightly flared fenders and a crease along the side that brings a sportier look and distinguishes it from its M-B brethren. Design cues are borrowed from the current S-Class and R-Class, and the roof contour looks like it’s straight off the CLS. An oversize Mercedes-Benz star is placed in the grille of Sport models, going against the tradition of reserving the grille position for coupes; Luxury models still have the three-pointed star mounted on the hood. Sport sedans are further distinguished with more aggressive lower front fascias and side skirts.
The interior of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been refined and enlarged, with unique trims for the Luxury and Sport models. The cabin is roomier, with increases in leg, hip and shoulder room. The control layout and design is logical and attractive. A power moonroof, Bluetooth connectivity, eight-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and seven airbags are all standard. Sport models are trimmed in aluminum, while Luxury C-Class interiors use burl walnut highlights. A large single knob mounted on the center console controls various functions, similar to BMW’s i-Drive system. Optional features include a Command APS multimedia system, containing a four-gigabyte music storage server, DVD player, voice activation and navigation unit.
Mercedes says there are a host of improvements for the two distinct customers that will purchase its 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class models, with distinguishing styling inside and out to differentiate the two models. According to Mercedes-Benz: “The two choices for the C-Class allows Mercedes customers to accentuate individual choices and configure a C-Class to suit their personal taste and lifestyle even more emphatically than before. All the models offer the same extraordinary driving experience that the sedan provides by virtue of further technical improvements. Both by its outstanding long-distance comfort and its dynamic handling, the C-Class sets new standards in this market segment.”
With pricing expected to begin in the $40,000 price range, the C-Class brings a high level of styling, luxury and technology to the entry-level premium market. That price could ultimately determine how well the new model fares against its competitors when the 2008 C-Class goes on sale late this summer, and it is likely that the C-Class models will cost more than many of its competitors. With new players entering each year – think Infiniti’s new G35 sedan, for example, or the upcoming redesigned Cadillac CTS – capitalizing on this growing segment is more important than ever. Doing it at a price premium, however, may prove difficult.
Photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz
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