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2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
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For many years , the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has felt like a shrunken-down version of the S-Class . This is still the case with the all-new W206 generation , but Mercedes-Benz always finds a way to keep the magic of the flagship S-Class present in their more compact model .
Dimensionally , the new C-Class has grown significantly over the outgoing model . Retaining a rear-wheel-drive architecture and now measuring 4,751 mm long , size-wise the new C falls in the upper end of the luxury compact sedan segment . Much of the 65 mm increase in length goes to the front hood , while 25 mm goes towards the lengthened wheelbase to provide more legroom for rear passengers .
The exterior styling follows the S-Class with classic proportions and a flowing silhouette . This makes the C-Class quite pleasing to look at with clean body lines that convey a simple but confident design that only Mercedes-Benz can deliver .
It ’ s the interior where the C-Class really shines . A clean , minimalist design sets the mood in the cabin where a large centre touchscreen serves as the technological centrepiece . This expansive vertical display makes important functions like navigation easier to see when driving , while an augmented reality navigation function can overlay graphical arrows on both the windshield and centre display as if the arrows were on the road itself . Beyond the digital features , the plethora of interior trim and seat colour options allow owners to customise their C-class to their desire .
All powertrain options are based on an inline-4 engine with various configurations . The C300 4-Matic is poised to be the most popular model in the lineup , bringing a healthy 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque powering all four wheels . This engine is assisted by a new 48-volt mild-hybrid setup that provides 20 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of instant torque during engine startup and low-speed acceleration . Higher-performing variants such as the Mercedes- AMG C63 S E Performance can bump those figures to 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque .
Regardless of the option that owners select for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class , they ’ re in for a treat before the lineup eventually goes fully electric in the future .