Al-Qalam 
[Carsbite]
By Imraan Buccus
The new C-Class is a leader in the Mercedes stable with over 2.5 million units sold since its introduction in 2014. One would be forgiven for immediately thinking of the S Class when you see the new iteration of the C Class -it does resemble the older brother aesthetically, technollogically and in terms of the interior. Despite the new obsession with SUVs, die hard C Class fans remain loyal and SA occupies a key position in terms of assembling the C Class for the world. Fans have generally been glad to see a longer sedan, and wider too when compared to the previous iteration. With a longer wheelbase this new C Class will certainly be more spacious on the inside.
A closer look at the interior
So much of the interior resembles the S Class. It has a large11.9-inch portrait touchscreen like the S Class and it is, not surprisingly, very user friendly. Other elements that stand out include the unique air vents and the stitched dashboard. The voice assistant is superb -this is Merc’s answer to Siri. The interior exudes luxurious sophistication and has the comfort one expects from a German car of this stature.
Bar some plastic that mars the interior, it is more or less whatone would expect from a Merc, especially the S Class. The sheer sophistication of the interior with its high-tech gadgets and frills certainly screams ‘I’m a cut above the rest’.
The extent to which elements of the S Class permeate the C Class is conspicuous. The design elements add to its significant presence and makes it ideal for the young entrepreneur and the seasoned executive alike. It will, no doubt, turn heads. This is not a German sedan with a cheap look -well, one wouldn’t expect that in a car costing as much as the C Class does.
What is handling like?
Comfort wins here, as expected. Driving on the N3 as one leaves Durban, you really get to appreciate the smooth and capable ride, distinctly silent and in-tact in the cabin. The road holding is noticeably impressive, despite our increasingly potholed roads.
Performance and economy don’t always go together but both these can be achieved with the C Class. Refinement, class and its luxuriously comfortable ride is similar to the S Class. And one appreciates the silence when on that important call on your hand free. Sure, there are many cars that are much more fun to drive, but don’t expect the same level of refinement that you’d get from this fine German car.
Engines Performance and efficiency
The C220d is popular. It has a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 147 kW/440 Nm and is a 9-speed automatic transmission. As you overtake to stamp your authority the car unleashes a burst of power sort of accumulated from the coasting bits, with any signs of a turbo lag disappearing.
There are multiple iterations to choose from -in the diesel version, there’s the C220d and C300d diesel options and the C200 and C300 petrols. The C300 petrol and diesels have 2.0-litre engines, while the C200 make do with a 1.5.
Much positivity has been recorded when it comes to the diesel motors in terms of performance, efficiency and refinement. The C220d records an impressive consumption of 5.5 L/100 km. This means on a full tank of 66 litres you could get from Durban to Johannesburg and almost back -well, you may need another 10 litres or so for the remaining mileage.
Rivals?
With the not so surprising popularity of SUVs, the days of the executive and every other middle class person looking for a German sedan may well be over. But the numbers seem to suggest that the C Class has its die hard fans and stands its ground against its main rival- the BMW 3 series, and to a lesser extent the Audi A4. The A4, despite its refinement and luxury has generally been less popular than the BMW and the Merc in its class. There may well be other options like the Jaguar XE and the Lexus but the South African sedan market has become synonymous with the BMW 3 series and the C Class; and this new C Class could certainly turns the tables in Merc’s favour -in a resounding way.
Cost and other facts
Prices may be a little higher than some of the competition, but you do need to fork out for superior quality and design.
The C220d remains very popular and some key facts are below:
• Model: Mercedes-Benz C220d AMG Line
• Price: A fraction over a R1m
• Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel
• Power/Torque: 147 kW/440 Nm
• Transmission: 9-speed automatic
• Fuel consumption: 4.6 L/100 km (claimed)
• Acceleration: 0-100 kph in 7.3 seconds (claimed)
• Luggage capacity: 455 litres
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class range starts from R957 200 for the C200 Avantgarde, and the C220d AMG sells at R1 026 450. Included is a 2-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
What can we conclude?
It’s clear that the world is moving in the direction of SUVs and the state of South Africa’s roads adds another reason for the increased popularity of SUVs. But it is also clear that the C Class will remain popular for a defined segment of the market.The C Class faces tough competition, especially from BMW and Audi, but it seems to hold the upper hand – especially in terms of design, comfort, sophistication and refinement.
Bearing in mind the average C Class purchaser is not looking for high speed performance, the engines are nonetheless efficient and worthy. It might be pricey, but this is the German sedan to get in this segment.
