subject: The Face Lifted Mercedes C Class [print this page] German premium car maker Mercedes-Benz has been producing the C-Class since 1993; it was introduced to replace the 190 model. The C-Class is categorised as a compact executive car and it competes with the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4. Up until 1997 the C-Class was the entry level model in the Mercedes-Benz line-up. We now have the A-Class as the entry level model, followed by the B-Class.
The current model of the C-Class was launched in 2007 it has an extended wheelbase and track and a stiffer body shell compared to its predecessor. In 2007 the C-Class took many of its design inspiration from its bigger brother the S-Class as well as the CLS-Class. Currently the C-Class is available as a 4 door saloon, a 5 door estate, a 2 door coupe and a convertible. The Coupe and Cabriolet models are a relatively new addition to the line-up but the Mercedes C Class Estate in Chichester was launched at the same time as the saloon.
In 2011 Mercedes gave the C-Class a face lift, changes to the exterior include LED daytime running lights integrated into the main headlamps housing, and LED taillights. Interior changes include the addition of a high resolution screen on the dashboard which has visual functions similar to the S and CL Class models.
Under the bonnet changes have been made to make the C-Class more fuel and CO2 efficient. The car now comes with an engine start-stop system and a 7G-TRONIC PLUS gearbox on some models. A total of ten new driver aid systems have also been added, these include Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control.
A C63 AMG model has also been introduced, some of the features include a new 5 twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey, 235/40 R 18 front and 255/35 R 18 rear tyres, all-colour three-dimensional TFT display in the middle of the redesigned speedometer, three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel from CLS 63 AMG, aluminium shift paddles with manual gear selection, optional designo leather upholstery.
