One Mercedes-Benz that’s had extraordinary success in this country is the C-
Class sedan. Arriving this year in its fifth generation the C-Class has achieved
over 10.5 million sales globally. Some years back it was one of our top selling
sedans although today the appeal of SUV’s has dampened its sales. Pricing too
has jumped considerably not helped by rising material costs and transportation
logistics. The entry C200 rose $12,000 or 18 percent to $78,900, I’m behind the
wheel of the C300 today – now 20 percent dearer at $90,400. However, this latest
C-Class has all-new underpinnings linked to the S-Class flagship, a huge amount
of new technology with a new generation mild hybrid four-cylinder drive- train
and a more accommodating interior. Visually, it exudes class, now on a 25mm
longer wheelbase with a wider track with more elbow room. The C300 now with a
2.0-litre turbo with mild-hybrid technology adding an extra 15kW and 200Nm of
torque, the twin scroll turbo adding 20kW of over boost linked to a nine-speed
automatic. The new dash and controls are a highlight, especially the 11.9-inch
infotainment touchscreen, set low and very user friendly. Yes, the new C-Class
may be much dearer, but this is a totally different car to its predecessor. Drive
details next segment. I’m David Berthon.

Download this podcast here