Mercedes-Benz launches the much awaited new C-Class diesel; commences the local production of the C-Class petrol

Mr.Piyush Arora, Executive Director Operations and Mr. Eberhard Kern MD ...

  • The new C 220 CDI will add value to the customer who prefers a diesel mill
  • Local production of the new C-Class petrol commences within three months of the India debut
  • The new C 220 CDI has the segment highest mileage of 19.27 kmpl and the highest torque of 400 Nm @1400-2800 rpm
  • Five Driving Modes with Drive Mode selector (Agility Select): a different car in every mode
  • Host of ‘Best in Segment’ features: longest wheelbase, highest torque, highest fuel efficiency, panoramic sunroof, reversing camera
  • Exemplary safety: 7 airbags, PRE-SAFE, Attention assist, Tyre pressure monitoring system, Hill start assist, ESP, ASR, BAS, ABS
  • The C 220 CDI STYLE is priced at Rs. 39.90 lakhs, the C 220 CDI AVANTGARDE is priced at Rs. 42.90 lakhs (All prices are ex-showroom Delhi)
  • The new C 200 Avantgarde petrol (CKD) is priced at Rs. 40.90 (ex-showroom Delhi)

With an endeavor to provide the best and most the comprehensive products in India, Mercedes-Benz today launched the New C-Class in its much awaited diesel variant. Mercedes-Benz also commenced the local production of the new C-Class petrol at its plant in Chakan. The new C 220 CDI Avantgarde and the new C 200 Avantgarde (CKD) was launched by Eberhard Kern, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India and Piyush Arora, Executive Director, Operations, Mercedes-Benz India at Mercedes-Benz India’s Centre of Excellence in Pune. The new C-Class diesel will now be available in the C 220 CDI STYLE and C 220 CDI AVANTGARDE, while the locally manufactured C-Class petrol will be available in the C 200 AVANTGARDE variant, at dealerships across India. The diesel variants of the new C-Class will be available as completely built units only.

The new C-Class has created a new benchmark in its segment with its modern, aesthetic design, high-class interiors and cutting-edge technology. Its features include exemplary safety and high efficiency, while boasting of sporty and agile handling. These class leading features have also made the car a favorite with the critics and jury members of the prestigious automotive awards in India this year.

Eberhard Kern, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “With the launch of the C 220 CDI we now present the complete portfolio of the new generation C-Class to our Indian customers. The commencement of the local production of the new C 200 Avantgarde petrol within three months of its India debut, reiterates our commitment of providing our customers fascinating products which are made in India.”

The new C-Class’ 4-cylinder diesel engine is the most fuel efficient in the segment with a fuel efficiency of 19.27 km per litre. Together with a large fuel tank capacity of 66 litres it gives the customers freedom to explore places around them without worrying about frequent trips to the fuel station. The engine also boasts of ECO start/stop function which helps in saving fuel and reducing emissions. The engine produces 125 kW at 3000-4200 rpm with a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 1400-2800 rpm, which is highest in the segment. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 233 kmph.

Drive mode selector (AGILITY SELECT): At a touch of the Drive Mode Selector, drivers can choose between Comfort, Economy, Sport, Sport+, or Individual driving modes. Parameters such as the engine, transmission and steering characteristics are adjusted according to the selected transmission mode. In the ‘Sport and Sport+’ modes the driver can experience added agility and dynamism, thanks to a more direct characteristic steering curve, spontaneous throttle response and modified shift points, providing an exciting and engaging driving experience.

Mercedes-Benz has also commenced the local production of the petrol variant of the new C-Class which was introduced last year as a CBU. In keeping with the global availability constraints for the new C-Class owing to the overwhelming demand across the world, the petrol variant was introduced last year. The diesel variant launched today will be available as a CBU.

“The new C 220 CDI redefines the segment completely and offers the customers who prefer a diesel mill, an unparalleled luxury product experience. The new C-Class’ character defining emotional and clear design and high-quality interior provides the unmistakable feeling of modern luxury. The efficient and high-performance engineering incorporated in this car delivers a higher level of driving pleasure. For instance, the new C 220 CDI combines the driving pleasure of five different cars into one with its innovative Drive Mode Selector (Agility Select) function. The C 220 CDI also offers the best fuel efficiency and the highest torque in the segment which will add great value to our discerning customers. The C-Class perfectly reflects our ‘Live the Best’ philosophy, which is to delight our discerning customers by providing them with value added new product offerings.” Mr. Kern further added.

Rated as one of the top-most CKD plants of Mercedes-Benz globally, the Mercedes-Benz India manufacturing facility now has an industry benchmark capacity of 20,000 units annually and production will commence from the newly constructed facility in 2015. Spread over 100 acres at Chakan, Pune, the manufacturing facility was set up in 2009 and is among the fastest green-field operations ever to be created. The plant produces currently five models – C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, ML-Class and GL-Class.

The new C 220 CDI STYLE diesel is priced at Rs. 39.90 lakhs, and the new C 220 CDI AVANTGARDE diesel is priced at Rs. 42.90 lakhs (prices ex-showroom Delhi) and available for sales in dealerships across the country.

The new C 200 Avantgarde petrol (CKD) is priced at Rs. 40.90 lakhs (prices ex-showroom Delhi) and available for sales in dealerships across the country.

The New C-Class – C 220 CDI

Driving Performance

The powerful motor coupled with a 7-speed automatic transmission combines a high level of comfort with driving pleasure and efficiency. It impresses with smooth operation and rapid gear shifts. At the same time, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributes to reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Higher Ground Clearance: The C-Class is equipped with a suspension specifically designed for India. This results in improved comfort on Indian roads and a greater ground clearance.

Long Wheelbase: Through its long wheelbase of 2840 mm the new C-Class will provide its passengers with better ride comfort, great handling and stunning driving performance differentiating it from its competitors. The long wheelbase will also offer passengers (especially in the rear) more legroom and therefore assures a more comfortable ride for all passengers.

Cruise Control: Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC allows relaxed, economical driving particularly on long journeys. In addition to the desired cruising speed, an individual maximum speed can be set e.g. to be sure of obeying speed limits.

Aerodynamics: Wind resistance is a principal factor in achieving fuel consumption reduction and the reduction of CO2 emissions. With extensive aerodynamic and aeroacoustic development work the new C-Class boasts of an impressively low drag coefficient of Cd = 0.26 and further noise reduced interior for a more comfortable driving experience.

Exterior – Sensuous clarity and purist forms

The new C-Class represents a bold departure from its predecessor. Its emotional, sensuous surface geometry makes it appear muscular and full of character. At the same time the design showcases the high-tech character in a purist, clear and exciting fashion. The front end, the three-dimensional radiator grille and the clearly traced headlamp contours mould the ‘face’ of the new C-Class – strong in character and brand-typical. The AVANTGARDE exterior design includes the sports grille with twin louvres, which emphasises the long bonnet and therefore the vehicle’s powerful and dynamic nature.

Longer, wider and lighter than its predecessor, and featuring sculptured and sensual design lines not unlike those of the S-Class, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class has grown up. The clear design emphasising width and the powerful shoulders give the new C-Class a decidedly athletic appearance from the rear. A soft edge which merges into the tail lights accentuates the indent in the C-pillar which is essential for the powerful shoulder. A strongly vaulted spoiler lip on the boot lid has a positive effect on the cd value, and also characterises the appearance.

With the dynamic LED headlamps with LED Intelligent Light System the main headlamps feature two newly designed modules. The up-to-date design with inward running contour creates a brand-moulding element with the functions “direction indicator”, “position light” and “daytime running lamp”. Their characteristic night design lends the new C-Class its very own distinctive look in the dark, too. The tail light cluster features a modern twin-torch-effect design with all light functions making use of LEDs.

Interior – Upgrade inside

The cockpit and passenger compartment come across as clear, sensuous and with a host of new unusual styling details. Clarity stands for visible high-tech attributes and straightforward sportiness – purism in the best sense of the word. Sensuousness stands for design ideas with exciting flowing shapes and high-grade materials – a reinterpretation of contemporary luxury. Electrically adjustable “Cobra-look” front seats with an organic, sporty design and integral head restraint are fitted into the all-new C-Class. The seat adjustment range compared with the W204 series has been enlarged by 10 mm in height and by 6 mm in the lowest seat position and allows even more individual adjustments. The seats are covered with full ARTICO leather. High-strength steels and intelligent lightweight construction are the technical distinguishing marks of the sturdy rear seats. Their newly designed seat cushions furthermore enhance the comfort for the rear-seat passengers who also enjoy considerably more legroom and knee room.

The interior skilfully combines the architecture of the Mercedes-Benz sports cars with a newly interpreted, sporty and flowing centre console design. The sportily designed, width-emphasising dashboard is optically divided into lower and upper sections which are separated by a trim strip. The newly integrated control and display system is consistent with the Mercedes-Benz operating philosophy.

This multimedia system combines entertainment, information and communication: The new generation Audio 20 CD with touchpad features now an entirely new designed user interface and graphics, 3D navigation and also allows networking with mobile devices via Bluetooth®. User-friendly navigation, precise map data and excellent route guidance with the Garmin® MAP PILOT brings all the familiar benefits of a Garmin® navigation system to the Audio 20 CD with touchpad. It’s all done by simply inserting an SD card with navigation software and map data sets. The infotainment system is also capable of connecting to the internet with a Bluetooth® and data-enabled mobile phone. Mercedes-Benz Apps such as Mercedes-Benz Radio can be used even while driving.

The interior of the new C-Class provides an ambience that enhances the overall experience of the occupants, with 3 colour ambient lighting, Reversing Camera, Panoramic Sliding Sunroof, KEYLESS GO starting function, spacious and illuminated boot with a total capacity of 480 litres. The rear seat backrests can be split-folded into a 40/20/40 ratio.

Safety and Assistance Systems

The integral safety concept from Mercedes-Benz groups together all active and passive safety components into a well thought-out system – for the safety of the vehicle occupants and other road users. It brings the vision of accident-free driving another step closer for the designers. More than ever before, it meets the requirements for a high level of vehicle and road safety, based on what actually happens in accidents.

With new and extended functions, in addition to the standard safety features such as ABS, BAS, ESP, ASR, Hill Start Assist, etc., the C-Class remains the leader in terms of measures designed to guard against danger and initiate protective measures. ATTENTION ASSIST is able to warn the driver when it detects typical signs of drowsiness in steering behaviour. Adaptive High Beam Assist Plus allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently since oncoming traffic or vehicles in front are masked out in the beams’ cone of light. PRE-SAFE® system comes with belt tensioners for driver and front passenger seats, closing function for side windows and panoramic sliding sunroof and positioning of front passenger.

Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

 

C 220 CDI AVANTGARDE

Arrangement/no. of cylinders

Inline / 4

Total displacement (cc)

2143

Max. engine output (kW @ rpm)

125 @ 3000 – 4200

Max. torque (Nm @ rpm)

400 @ 1400 – 2800

Approx. top speed (km/h)

233

Acceleration 0 – 100 kmph (s)

7.4

Tyres/wheels

225/50 R 17

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS

Fuel type

Diesel

Length (mm)

4686

Width (mm)

1810

Height (mm)

1442

Wheelbase (mm)

2840

Kerb weight (kg)

1655

Perm. GVW (kg)

2135

Luggage compartment  capacity (l)

480

Turning circle diameter (m)

11.22

Fuel efficiency under standard test conditions (kmpl)

19.27

About Mercedes-Benz India:

Established in 1994, Mercedes-Benz India Pvt. Ltd. pioneered the luxury car market in India and boasts of more than 129 years of cutting edge innovation in the luxury automobile industry globally. With a world class production facility spreading over 100 acres in Chakan near Pune, set up in 2009, the facility is among the fastest green-field operations ever to be created and is rated among the top most CKD plants of Mercedes-Benz, globally. The production facility carries an investment of INR 1000 crores and it will soon have the largest installed production capacity of 20,000 units annually, largest for any luxury car maker in India. Mercedes-Benz India product portfolio comprises the locally produced S-Class, E-Class, C-Class, GL-Class and the M-Class. Completely Built Imported cars include the A-Class, B-Class, CLA-Class, GLA-Class, CLS-Class, SLK-Class etc. The product portfolio also comprises offering the iconic off-roader G 63 AMG as well as a wide range of other AMG performance cars like the CLA 45 AMG, E 63 AMG, SLK 55 AMG, GL 63 AMG, ML 63 AMG, GLA 45 AMG and the iconic off-roader the G 63 AMG.

Continuing its growth momentum into 2015, Mercedes-Benz India announced its philosophy for the year, founded on its brand philosophy of ‘Best or Nothing’. The growth strategy is built on 5 key initiatives with an aim to provide the ‘BEST’ to its customers through BEST products, BEST operations, BEST touch points, BEST customer experiences and BEST corporate citizenship. ‘Live The BEST’ is the new driving philosophy for Mercedes-Benz India in 2015 to achieve the objectives of growing a profitable and sustainable business in India and to further extend its customer focused approach. The company started the 2015 on a high with two key product launches, the CLA-Class and the C 220 CDI, along with a dew dealership launch in Jharkhand, the first in the ‘steel city’.

The year 2014 was Mercedes-Benz India’s ‘Year of Excellence’ across the brand, product and services spectrum. Mercedes-Benz grew by 13% in 2014 amidst challenging market dynamics registering a sale of 10,201 units making it the best year ever in the company history in India. As part of its qualitative network expansion strategy, Mercedes-Benz inaugurated 14 new outlets in 2014 at Bhubaneshwar, Raipur, Bhopal, Mohali, Chandigarh, Kochi, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Nashik, Kanpur, Surat, Karnal, Chandigarh and Madurai. In 2015 Mercedes-Benz inaugurated a new 3S dealership in Jamshedpur. Currently Mercedes-Benz India has 69 outlets located in 38 Indian cities, making it the brand with the densest network presence in the luxury segment, in India.

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