Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2012 review

Mercedes-Benz has made sure its top selling C-Class sedan and wagon is on top of the game following a mid-life update. This is the big change before a new generation arrives in about three years. There are over 2000 new parts with this update.

Benz has taken the already impressive C-Class and completely reworked it with feature flow-down from the likes of S-Class and CLS models as well as refinements and styling changes.

It is better in every way compared with the current model and offers more equipment, improved safety and eco-friendly technology.

VALUE

Pricing hasn't been announced yet but expect minimal changes to the current schedule even though the new model scores more kit.

TECHNOLOGY

One of the biggest changes is the adoption of Eco stop/start across the entire range. This switches off the engine when the car comes to a stop, re-igniting it as soon as the brake pedal is released. Stop/start can get a 31 per cent fuel economy improvement - compounded in the new C-Class by direct injection engines across the board in petrol and diesel.

Australia will get seven-speed automatic transmission only in models ranging from the C 200CGi turbo petrol through to the C 350 CDi 3.0-litre turbo diesel. 

Ten new driving assistance systems ranging from Attention Assist drowsiness detection to Distronic Plus proximity control are now available for C-Class. The new-generation telematics include internet access and a 3D navigation display with plastic city views.

DESIGN

In addition to the standard equipment which now include a leather steering wheel, the two design and equipment lines - Elegance and Avantgarde are the basis for customers individualising their own C-Class. The two lines are now more readily distinguishable from each other.

Styling inside and out is revised with a more contemporary Benz family look including new CLS shaped headlights, new front guards, bonnet and doors in aluminium and new tail lights. 

Aerodynamics are improved to Cd 0.26 as part of BlueEfficiency measures that also include decoupling engine ancillaries, low rolling resistance tyres and optimised gearing. The dash is a much more appealing design with a larger info' screen integrated into the middle.

DRIVE

We were able to sample two of the diesels last week in Tenerife, the C250CDi and the monumental C350CDi with a 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel capable of delivering some 195kW/620Nm output. Yes, we will be getting this model towards the middle of the year.

As expected, the 350 is a freight train of a car in performance terms. It just goes and goes and has stunning throttle response virtually off idle. With this much torque from under 2000rpm, the C350 CDi rockets out of the blocks and can deliver the sort of go you'd expect from a sports sedan.

But Benz has set it up for mixed driving conditions which means it maintains its poise over rough roads and can waft along the freeway like an insulated cocoon of leather clad luxury. 

But the real surprise for us was the C250 diesel which, with 150kW/500Nm and a lighter, 2.2-litre four cylinder engine up front, was damn near as quick as the 350 and slightly more nimble in the tight stuff. Coupled to that is impressive fuel economy that can dip readily into the 6.0 litre/100km range.

VERDICT

We love the look and feel of the new model in sedan and wagon variants but prefer the Avantgarde styling as it has a sportier edge.

MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS

Engine: C200CGi 2.2-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol and C350CDi 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbo diesel
Outputs: 150kW/500Nm, 195kW/620Nm
Economy: 7.3 L / 100 km 95 RON 171g CO2 p/km and 7.4 L / 100 km Diesel 196g CO2 p/km
Transmission: 5-speed and 7-speed Automatic, rear wheel drive
Safety: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS),Electronic Stability Program (ESP), 9 air bags.