2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Explained in Detail

Mercedes-Benz India has revamped the C-Class in the country with a mid-life update. The entry-level executive sedan gets a refreshed fascia and rejigged powertrain options. At the launch, the C-Class was introduced in three trim levels powered by a downsized diesel engine available in two states of tune. Let us have a detailed look at the new and updated C-Class introduced in India for the price of Rs 40 lakhs.

Being a mid-life update, the changes are only limited to cosmetics which include a revised front grille and bumpers. The measurements at 4686x1810x1442mm remain unchanged. The grille can now also be had in the diamond radiator grille with chrome pins instead of the standard dual-louvred one. The bumpers get AMG-like design with larger intakes and a sporty bumper lip. The headlight signature is redesigned, but if you upgrade it to LED High Performance ones offered by Mercedes, you get the multiple LEDs with subtle DRL in between which looks simply stunning. The tail lights get a revised scheme with a C-shaped strip integrated inside with a cluster of LEDs. The sedan sits on newly designed alloy wheel options available in sizes from 16-inch up to 18-inch. 

On the inside, the overall layout is unchanged but there are a few subtle changes to keep things looking fresh. For instance, the material used for the dashboard gets new options while the steering wheel controls are revised. The centre mounted screen is now larger and measures 10.25-inch. The infotainment screen comes with features of smartphone integration as well. The ambient lighting has no less than 64 shade. Also, the upholstery can be opted in black, beige, brown or combination of any two of these. 

As far as the rejigged powertrain is concerned, currently the C-Class is only offered with one diesel engine which also powers the updated E-Class. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel is available in two guises – C220d and C300d. The former produces 194bhp at 3800rpm while the latter is good for an output of 245bhp/370Nm. The 9G-Tronic transmission is new to the C-Class, replacing the older 7G-Tronic, and is standard across the trims sending power to the rear wheels only.

The equipment level is what you’d expect from a car of this calibre. You get cruise control, rolling sunblinds, folding rear seats, sunroof (panoramic in the AMG pack), park assist and reverse camera as standard. The safety list includes Mercedes’ PRE SAFE package apart from the pedestrian safety features with an active bonnet which pops up to reduce the impact of collision to the pedestrian. 

Mercedes has priced the refreshed C-Class at Rs 40 lakhs for the 220d Prime, Rs 44.5 lakhs for C220d Progressive and Rs 48.5 lakhs for the C300d AMG Line. The prices remain on par with the older model and the C-Class continues to lock horns with its archrivals which include the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 (both of which are due for an update). It also comes as an alternative to the Jaguar XE and Volvo S60. For the price of the new C, there are options of entry-level German SUVs as well namely BMW X1, Audi Q3 and its stablemate Mercedes-Benz GLA. The gorgeous looking Volvo XC40 is a stylish alternative as well instead of the German crossovers. And if you want something quirky and stylish, the Mini Cooper S JCW can also be had for a lakh more than the C220d Prime. For the tree-huggers, there are options of the Honda Accord hybrid and Toyota Prius for the price of the new C-Class. But if road presence is what you want, the Land Rover Discovery Sport could give you just that along with compelling off-road capabilities. However, the C-Class offers the regality of the Three-Pointed Star which demands immense respect in a country like ours.