Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz has revamped the C-Class in India with a mid-life update. The executive sedan gets a refreshed fascia and rejigged powertrain options. The C-Class is introduced in three trim levels powered by a downsized diesel engine available in two states of tune.

The changes to the refreshed C-Class are only limited to cosmetics which include a revised front grille and bumpers. 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 an 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. The measurements at 4686x1810x1442mm remain unchanged.

On the inside, the overall cabin 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.

Mercedes-Benz is offering the new C-Class is only 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.

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 arch-rivals 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.