DaimlerChrysler's Mercedes unit has taken the wraps off its bread-and-butter Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which will go on sale in the United States in March. What consumers will get starting in the $30,000 plus range are engine options ranging from 1.8 liters with 133 horsepower to the C-350 with 3.5 liters and 272 horsepower. Mercedes says the new engine design for the V4 engine options will result in improved fuel consumption. The C 220 CDI, for example, consumes up to 0.3 liters less fuel per 100 kilometers compared to the previous model, the company says.
Also included are electronically controlled shock absorbers that adjust according to driving conditions, and improved direct steering.
Headrests, which adjust their support to protect drivers' and front passengers' heads in the event of a crash are also included.
Not included were many of the advanced electronics features Mercedes began to offer in its S-Class back in 2005, which Wired News reviewed. High-end features that thus will not trickle down into the mainstream C-Class that the S-Class has include night vision capabilities through the navigation console and automated braking and acceleration, which allow you to take your foot of both the brake and gas pedals, even in stop-and-go traffic. The car and brakes and accelerates for you. Those waiting to find the ultra-high-end technologies in the mainstream C-Class from Mercedes will have to wait a few more years.
