Mercedes continues luxury legacy
[caption id="attachment_34304" align="alignright" width="405"] SLICK TORQUE: With a sensuous and clear design and a host of technical innovations, the new C-Class offers a comprehensive scope of standard equipment and exemplary emissions and fuel consumption figures[/caption]
MERCEDES-BENZ launched the new C-Class range of vehicles last week. The range is arguably the most important for the South African company in its history. The C-Class, built in East London for the local market and exported to 18 counties, is the bread and butter for the Eastern Cape company.
The all-new C-Class heralds a new chapter in the C-Class success story and sets new standards in the premium medium-luxury segment.
A host of new assistance systems offers safety of the highest standard, while a new optional air-sprung suspension provides for exemplary ride and driving comfort as well as nimble and agile handling as the motoring media were able to experience last week.
The launch started in Johannesburg and then on to the Red Star raceway near Bapsfontein about 90km away.
On-track driving to test the various safety systems was an eye-opener.
While the majority of these tests were highly successful, there were some red faces from the Merc big wigs when the pedestrian avoidance safety feature did not live up to expectations and the car collided with the crash test dummy, resulting in slight damage to the vehicle as well as the dummy.
However, the rest of the track experience went off without a hitch and proved the new C-Class to be an outstanding vehicle which sets a new benchmark in this segment.
The vehicle is packed with the latest gizmos and gadgets which are class-leading. Handling and general driving dynamics are some of the best I have ever experienced.
The range consists of the following engine derivatives.
In addition to a new small diesel engine, an advanced version of the 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine is available in the C 220 BlueTEC variant. This diesel engine has an output of 125kW of power and 400Nm of torque.
The C 220 BlueTEC diesel engine is equipped with the established SCR technology (selective catalytic reduction) for particularly environment-friendly driving.
Four-cylinder petrol engines with power outputs ranging from 115 to 155kW are available in the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, C 200 BlueEFFICIENCY and C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY variants.
Is there anything I don't like?
I was disappointed that the new C-Class is fitted with run-flat tyres.
This means there is no spare wheel, wheel spanner or jack.
World of Wheels has repeatedly stated its disapproval of this system.
It may be suitable for European conditions, but as a global vehicle, designers should be aware that the world is not only Europe or First World countries.
There is another world where these cars are sold and driven.
Car designers need to get real and expand their minds! This does not only apply to Mercedes-Benz but also the other companies who do not realise that having a spare wheel is just as important as attaining a five-star Euro N-Cap safety rating.
The new C-Class comes standard with the six-years/100000km maintenance contract with no customer contribution and the option to extend.
Prices are:
C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY R415900
C 200 BlueEFFICIENCY R436600
C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY R502600
C 220 BlueTEC R459000 (exempt from CO2tax – 113g/km)
- Bobby Cheetham
