The New Mercedes C Class - First Impressions

Unveiled back in 2014, The C class set a new level in the premium compact market. Its sporty exterior design and usable detailed interior layout meant that customers buying a C class, got S and E class quality and feel, but compact design features (minus some of the S class gadgets and luxury extras).

Since then both BMW (with the 3 series) and Audi (with the A4) have come to the party, offering alternatives to the C class that give customers options across multiple brands and with the 3 series due an overhaul this year, the C class couldn't rest on its laurels.

Looking at the exterior styling of the new C class, its subtle changes and upgrades that Mercedes have gone for. Obviously the styling of the current car is still market relevant with it being the 7th best selling car in 2017, so exterior remains very similar.

The new LED headlight cluster houses 84 separate LED's which adapt to road and condition situations for increased visibility. The bumper styling is refreshed with twin blade dividing air intakes (found on the new S class) and the AMG line boasting the stunning new diamond grille design as standard. This gives the car a very prestige yet meatier and sportier look on the road.

New 17" 5 spoke alloys now come as standard and there is the inclusion of 2 new paint colours, Mojave Silver and Emerald green (that will be interesting to see on this car as the green on other models has always turned heads!)

The main differences from an exterior point of view are at the front, however the rear has some subtle changes which keeps the rear looking fresh and modern. The size and shape of the rear light cluster is the same, however the lights themselves have taken on the S class 'C shape' and combined with the chrome plating, sporty twin exhausts and black diffuser, its still very recognisable as a C class.

That's all well and good you say, it looks good, but I'm going to be driving it, so what does it look like inside and what about engine and performance?

Valid point, however you still want to drive past and admire yourself in the shop window reflection right? OK, so lets take a look at the interior upgrades.

The interior design also has Mercedes favouring subtle changes, however the changes made are all to heighten driver senses and make the overall feel of the car more premium and luxurious. The infotainment system is mounted high enough on the dash to keep drivers eyes focused on the road and space has been prioritised with giving the cabin a lighter, airier feel.

New additions such as Open pore anthracite wood trim and and new colour schemes like magma grey on black are now available. With the AMG line, you unlock the possibility of Saddle Brown as well and the optional extra of a Panoramic sunroof. New options include the 'Energizing comfort control' which links the climate control to the air fragrance air ventilation system and massage and lighting functions for the seats, giving the ultimate cabin experience for both driver and front seat passenger, all very fancy stuff!

There's a new multifunctional, leather wrap steering wheel boasting touch sensitive controls. Voice control is also available to limit the users eyes straying to the centre console whilst driving.

A big change in this car is the new infotainment system. The old style COMAND online system is still used, however the instrument gauge comes in a 5.5" display as standard with the 12.3" available as an upgrade. The screen itself mounts on the dash as a 7" unit with a 10.25" display unit available if you would like a slightly bigger screen.

Another cool feature is the Navigation system being linked with the driver aids available, which means the things like cruise control will adapt to corners and junctions, slowing your speed appropriately. Its all very clever stuff and will surely impact insurance premiums in a positive way as well...Bonus!

So what about engine choice? Well it certainly wont come with the 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 engine (that's just for dramatic affect) however the C200d, C220d and C250d will all be available in the new C class with petrol options of both the C200 and C300 petrol engine confirmed, with the C200 having mild hybrid properties as well.

There will be hybrid editions to replace the current C350e, however details are yet to be revealed, but im sure we will see hybrid options appearing through all the models in 2019 and 2020.

All in all, the new C class will be a fantastic edition to the current line-up and with the freshen up, its going to only boost the reputation of this already increasingly popular car.