New Mercedes-Benz C-Class launches in SA

The sixth-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class has finally arrived in South Africa boasting a fresh new design and upgraded assistance systems. 

Built right here in Mzansi, at the East London plant, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class joins the market in two derivatives; C200 and C220d with a limited debut edition dubbed Edition 6 based on the C200. 

The new C-Class borrows heavily from the flagship S-Class and measures 4,751 mm in length, 1,820 mm in width and a wheelbase that has been stretched by 25 mm to 2,865 mm thus making it larger than its predecessor. 

Boasting what Mercedes-Benz designers call ‘catwalk line’, the new C-Class can be fitted with 18” or 19” wheels in modern designs. The rear isn’t strange to our eyes too as it looks slightly similar to that of the brand’s latest models.

The interior has been digitised and comes fitted with a free-standing high-res LCD screen and classic round dials. Borrowed from the S-Class is the second-gen MBUX system with an improved ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant. The look of the screens can be individualised with three display styles; Discreet, Sporty, Classic and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service). 

The C200 is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 150 kW and 300 Nm of torque. The C220d employs a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with outputs rated at 147 kW and 440 Nm. 

Both models sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds with the top speed kicking in at 246 km/h for the C200 and 245 km/h for the C220d. 

All C-Class models come standard with the 9G-TRONIC transmission. 

The new C-Class boasts a new suspension that, according to Mercedes-Benz, provides the basis for a high level of suspension, ride and noise comfort, agile handling and driving fun. 

Buyers can fit an optional continuously-adjustable, and sport suspension. 

The limited Edition 6 adds some sporty touches in the form of numerous visual accents, two distinct colours; Spectral Blue and Selenite Grey. It can be had with AMG Line trim that adds AMG 19” wheels, panoramic sliding roof as well as Agility Control. 

Only 400 units of the Edition 6 will be built. 

The new Mercedes-Benz C200 is priced at R849,000 and R908,500 for the C220d. The C200 Launch Edition 6 is available on Agility Finance from R9,999 per month, subject to terms and conditions.