New Mercedes-Benz C-Class makes it entry

Mercedes-Benz launches the fifth-generation C-Class in the Indian market with a starting price of �

Mercedes-Benz launches the fifth-generation C-Class in the Indian market with a starting price of ₹55 lakh. The new-generation C-Class sedan’s exterior and interior design is similar to the flagship S-Class sedan. Plus, for the first time, it gets mild-hybrid powertrain options across the range. 

Mercedes-Benz is offering the new C-Class with two diesels and one petrol engine option. The entry-level C200 petrol variant comes with a new 204hp, 300Nm, 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which replaces the 2.0-litre engine from the outgoing model.  

The C-Class diesel line-up for India starts with a C220d that’s priced at ₹56 lakh; it comes with a 200hp, 440Nm diesel engine. The top-spec C300d comes with the same powerplant, however, it gets a healthy 265hp, 440Nm on tap and is priced at ₹ 61 lakh.

The C200 and C220d variants of the new C-Class will be available in Avantgarde line, while the C300d comes on a sportier AMG line. The latter comes equipped with AMG-spec bumpers, a sportier grille and a different alloy wheel design.

The C200 and C220d will be available in six exterior colour options – Salatine Grey, Mojave Silver, High-tech Silver, Manufaktur Opalite White, Cavansite Blue and Obsidian Black. Meanwhile, the C300d will only be available in the last three.

All three engines come mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox as standard, and also get a 48V mild-hybrid tech with an integrated starter generator (ISG) system that provides an additional 20hp and up to 200Nm of torque. Mercedes-Benz India claims a fuel economy of 16.9kpl for the C200 and 23kpl for the C220d, which makes the latter the most fuel-efficient Mercedes-Benz in India. As for performance, the brand claims a 0-100kph sprint time of 7.3 seconds for the C200 and C220d variants, while the C300d can do the same in 5.7 seconds.

The new W206 C-Class follows the design language of the A-Class, E-Class and S-Class stable mates, primarily by way of shorter overhangs, a more angular front end and new headlamp and tail-lamp designs. In terms of dimensions, the new C-Class has a 25mm longer wheelbase at 2,865mm and the overall length is up by 65mm. The car is also wider by 10mm.