Despite what one may think, the Mercedes C Class is a relatively new addition to the Mercedes portfolio. It was brought out in 1993 as a replacement for the old 190E.
Since then, the Mercedes C Class has become the bread and butter model for the three-pointed star sprouting 4 generations so far.
The Stuttgart based giant introduced the current generation C Class way back in 2007. A comprehensive facelift was given to the C Class in 2011 to capitalize on the fact that the rival replacements were a long time away from hitting the shelf.
However, come 2014, you will see an all new 5th generation Mercedes C Class ready to ruffle the feathers of BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.
Looking at the spyshots available on the internet, Quattroruote.it presents their interpretation of what the all-new C Class would look like.
As one can see, the replacement model is more streamlined with swept back headlamps and a gently sloping roofline. The key aspects of Mercedes’s new design philosophy have been incorporated in the design while giving it some individualistic design cues.
What do we know of the 2014 C Class?
2014 Mercedes C-Class Platform
- Internally called W205 or BR205, the fifth generation C Class will be among the first models to be based on Benz's new ‘Mercedes rear-wheel drive’ (MRA) architecture.
- It is expected to be longer than its predecessor (2 cm) but the width will remain the same.
- Extensive usage of lightweight alloys will make the successor lighter and more fuel efficient.
- Although the platform suggests that it will only be a rear-wheel drive architecture, Mercedes has plans to offer optional all-wheel drive in several versions. We think this version of the platform will go under the next gen GLK Class.
- Body styles that will be on offer include a standard sedan, a long wheel base sedan, a two door coupe, convertible version, a station wagon and for the first time in history an MST model. MST stands for Midsize Sports Tourer, a cross between a Wagon and a Van. Mercedes plans to sell it as a smaller version of the R-Class.
2014 Mercedes C-Class Interiors
- All new interiors with a redesigned dashboard influenced by the new A Class are expected in the replacement.
- It would include an iPad-style display for the infotainment and a sat-nav above newly styled circular air vents. A new COMMAND system, expected to debut in the new S Class, will be on offer. The menus on the screen will be operated using the controller in the center console, right behind the manual or automatic gear shifter. A secondary TFT color display is built into the dashboard between the instrument cluster gauges.
- Test mules have been spotted with a Magic-Sky Control option, which utilizes electro chromatic glass technology to turn the windowpane from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.
2014 Mercedes C-Class Engines
The new Mercedes C Class will be offered in both petrol and diesel options
Petrol
- 1.6-liter engine with 150 hp
- 2.0-liter with around 205 hp
- A turbo charged 3.5-liter V-6 making 330 hp
- A twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 with power ranging for 460 hp and 520 hp for the AMG and Black Edition models respectively
Diesels
- 1.8L four cylinder diesel from Renault generating 140 hp
- A 2.2L turbo charged engine with 170 hp
- A 2.5L turbo charged engine with 204 hp
- 3.0-liter V-6 making 250 hp
Hybrid
In addition to petrol and diesel versions, the 2014 C-Class is expected to be the first small Benz to get a hybrid powertrain. An electric motor that develops approximately 27 hp will assist a petrol motor and keep the environmental lobby happy.
Transmission
- A six-speed manual will be on offer in the lower variants.
- An eight-speed automatic from Germany’s ZF will also be on offer. This box is closely related to BMW ‘s eight-speed ZF transmission.
- 7G-DCT double-clutch will be offered in the AMG sport models.
- A nine-speed automatic, currently being developed in the skunk works of Mercedes for the next gen S-Class, will also be on offer on the higher models to give supreme fuel efficiency.
By the look of things, the all new Mercedes C Class is going to be a mind-blowing car of progressive elements of technology. We can’t wait for it to debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor show.
[Rendering Courtesy: Quattroruote.it]
