Best-Selling Mercedes-Benz Model Offers Improved Performance

The new-generation C-Class Sedan, launched in 2014, marked a new chapter in the Mercedes-Benz model's success story and continues to set new standards in the premium mid-range class. The C300 Sedan series models, available in rear-wheel-drive and 4MATIC configurations, receive a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission for 2018, increasing performance with an improved 0-60 mph time of just 5.8 seconds. The AMG C43 Sedan boasts a 31/69 torque split and the top-of-the line AMG C63 Sedan continues to impress with its handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine, producing up to 503 horsepower.

The C-Class is the top-selling model series from Mercedes-Benz. Sales of the preceding model, which was launched in 2007, totaled over 2.4 million worldwide. The C-Class Sedan offers sensuous and clear design and a host of technical innovations as well as a comprehensive scope of standard equipment and exemplary emission and fuel consumption values.

New for 2018

For 2018, the C300 and C300 4MATIC Sedans receive a new 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission to replace the 7G-TRONIC 7-Speed transmission. The addition of the new transmission C300 and C300 4MATIC also allows for a performance increase with an improved zero to 60 mph time in just 5.8 seconds (vs. 6.0 seconds for 2017).

A power sunroof and extendable sun visors are now standard, and a Smartphone Integration Package is now optionally available, further increasing the car's everyday practicality and comfort. Further adding to its luxury elements, the C350e is now standard-equipped with LED headlamps.

The AMG C43 offers authentic driving dynamics thanks to AMG DNA

The AMG C43 sedan, boasts a torque split of 31% front / 69% rear and an AMG- enhanced 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission for a dynamic driving experience. Engineers at AMG have revised many technical features of the AMG C43 with the objective of obtaining a high level of driving dynamics geared towards the Mercedes-AMG C63. To this end, a host of suspension components were adopted from the top-of-the-line AMG C63 model.

The sports braking system of the AMG C43 impresses with fade-free and effective stopping power. Vented brake discs at all four corners measuring 14.2 inches in diameter at the front and 12.6 inches at the rear as well as gray brake calipers with "Mercedes-AMG" lettering are all part of the standard equipment.

The AMG C63 Sedan: The pinnacle of performance

Dynamics plus long-distance comfort –the Mercedes-AMG C63 sedan offers impressive engine output with exceptionally low fuel consumption figures, outstanding longitudinal and lateral dynamics and yet delivers a high level of everyday usability. As form is just as important as function, the interior and exterior design is more distinctive than ever before.

The V8 pinnacle in the C-Class portfoilio is available in a choice of two models –the Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S, with the C63 S set up for even more dynamic handling and performance. The M177 handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine is a close relative of the M178, which is the sports-car heart of the Mercedes-AMG GT. The innovative eight-cylinder is notable for its outstanding power delivery, targeted lightweight design, high efficiency and environmental compatibility. It also fulfills the highest standards in terms of noise and vibration comfort.

An AMG Performance Exhaust System with three electronically controlled exhaust flaps is available as an option for both engine variants. It provides the driver with an even greater level of control of the exhaust note via a button on the center console. In the “Comfort” drive program, the engine is quieter and more comfortable, while, in “Sport +” and “Race,” the V8 sound is even more dominant and evocative of a race car – complete with acoustic up-shift and distinctive double de-clutching feedback. In addition to setting it via the drive program, the engine sound can also be set individually at any time at the push of a button.

Suspension – sporty yet comfortable

The suspension on the C-Class provides for nimble and agile handling that makes driving a great pleasure on winding roads while also offering the highest standard of ride comfort in the segment. Thanks to the 4-link principle, the front independent suspension is fully decoupled from the spring strut. The resultant favorable axle kinematics allow for more grip and higher lateral stability. As a result, the suspension responds more sensitively to steering movements and allows a sporty, agile driving style. An optimized multi-link independent rear suspension with 5-link concept ensures unsurpassed wheel location qualities and supreme straight-line stability.

The C-Class Sedan is fitted as standard with a steel suspension. In the United States, customers have the choice amongst four suspensions:

  • a comfortable yet sporty base suspension (standard on C300)
  • a sports suspension lowered by .6 inches as part of the optional Sport Package
  • a comfort suspension (standard on C300 4MATIC; part of optional Luxury Package on C300)
  • AIRMATIC (standard on C350e; part of AIRMATIC Package)

First air suspension in this category

The C-Class is the first vehicle in its segment that can be fitted with an air suspension (AIRMATIC) on the front and rear axles. Thanks to electronically controlled, continuous variable damping at the front and rear, it offers outstanding road roar and tire vibration characteristics even with the vehicle loaded. The driver can use the AGILITY SELECT switch to choose between the various characteristics: "Comfort," "ECO," "Sport" and "Sport+." The additional "Individual" option enables drivers to configure their vehicle according to their own wishes. AIRMATIC also features all-round self-leveling for optimum ride comfort even when the vehicle is loaded. The C-Class also comes with an electric parking brake as standard.

Steering with a sporty character

All models of the C-Class family feature the electromechanical Direct Steer system as standard. This combines road-speed-dependent power assistance from the speed-sensitive power steering system with a steering ratio which varies according to the given steering angle. The power steering assistance provided by the rack and pinion steering gear is controlled on-demand, thereby contributing towards efficiency. Sport Package-equipped cars also get a Sport Direct-Steer system that offers a sportier and more dynamic steering feel that is well matched to the package’s lowered suspension.

Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive: The intelligent car

It is the declared aim of Mercedes-Benz to make the highest standard of safety available to everyone. To this end, the C-Class offers numerous innovative safety and assistance systems. It is fitted as standard with ATTENTION ASSIST, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS (CPA+) and PRE-SAFE®. Optionally available is the Driver Assistance Package, which includes systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering ssist and Stop & Go Pilot, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Speed Limit Assist.

 

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