SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Limousine (W 205) caught bare skin near Arctic Circle

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The new C-Class Limousine is slated for world premiere in January next year at NAIAS Detroit. Although there's more than half a year left till we see the final product, spy photographers deployed in Northern Scandinavia caught a totally uncamouflaged W 205 pre-series prototype doing some development on a frozen, snow-covered test track.

Even though photographed from distance, the white-coloured limousine showcase an elegant and rather simple silhouette, with a visibly longer wheelbase and several elements that remind of the new S-Class. In fact, the mini-S design was shaping as a certainty for the new C-Class starting with FEP, when the test vehicles for the W 205 generation have lost the heavy cladding.

While to most it may not look impressive enough, the pictured C-Class pre-series car is most likely the standard low-entry model, given the traditional headlight technology and the lack of LED projectors, that has received the Avantgarde treatment in the form of the Star grille with two louvres. We are sure the finished vehicle will look outstanding when unveiled.

Start of sales will happen during spring 2014, with the main production headquartered at the Bremen plant in Germany and additional volumes for emerging markets to be assembled at the facilities from Tuscaloosa (USA), East London (South Africa) and Beijing (China).

Image Source: WorldCarFans

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

The latest about the C-Class: Special "Edition C" model

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Limited edition in tip-top form: the Edition C sees Mercedes‑Benz unveiling a particularly sporty and stylish take on its C‑Class Saloon, Estate and Coupé models. They stand out by virtue of their extensive equipment, an interior designed with great attention to detail using high-quality materials and a dynamic appearance. At the same time, Mercedes-Benz is augmenting the C-Class range by introducing a new model and a series of modifications, particularly in the areas of multimedia and telematics.

An exclusive radiator grille with high-gloss black louvres and chrome trim flanked by darkened headlamps clearly underlines the special status and individual character of the Edition C models. Over and above this, the Edition C Coupé features AMG bodystyling for the front apron, side sill panels and rear apron. As do the Saloon and Estate models if the AVANTGARDE design and equipment line is selected. Further stand-out features of the Edition C include chromed tailpipe trims and an "Edition C" badge on the wing.

The Saloon and Estate are shod with 43.2 cm (17-inch) five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in black with a high-sheen finish, paired with 225/45 R 17 front and rear tyres. The Coupé model as well as Saloon and Estate models ordered with the AVANTGARDE design and equipment line have wider 245/40 R 17 tyres on the rear wheels.

Interior: sporty and supremely stylish

Attractive materials, stylish details and a wealth of high-quality equipment and appointments enhance the individuality and sporty character of the interior. Eye-catching features include the sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/ DINAMICA microfibre in black (AMG sports seats in the Coupé) with two-tone contrasting topstitching in blue/alpaca grey and a dark aluminium trim with longitudinal grain.

Facing the driver is a three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather with contrasting topstitching in alpaca grey and an 11.4 cm multifunction colour display in the instrument cluster, including ATTENTION ASSIST. The shift/selector lever gaiter and the DINAMICA microfibre-trimmed door centre panels likewise feature contrasting topstitching in alpaca grey and make for a perfectly coordinated, sporty look. As do the velour floor mats, with edging and contrasting topstitching in alpaca grey, and the black headlining. Folding rear seat backrests underline the car's impressive practicality.

The C-Class Edition C equipment and appointments add €1785 (including VAT) to the price of the Coupé, Saloon and Estate models, while Saloon and Estate models already featuring the AVANTGARDE design and equipment line carry an additional charge of €1011.50 (incl. VAT) for the Edition C package.

Enhanced C-Class: bestseller in best form

There is a new addition to the C-Class range in the shape of the C 220 CDI 4MATIC entry-level all-wheel-drive model, which has an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and 400 Nm of torque. It is available in either Saloon or Estate guise.

Enhanced features include the COMAND Online multimedia system with Live Traffic Information, which delivers traffic data in real time and can therefore provide advance warnings of traffic hold-ups. In addition to this, the standard-fit Audio 20 CD radio incorporates a digital bus, meaning that a Media Interface, a digital radio (DAB) and the high-end Harman Kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system are also combinable with the standard radio.

A new control logic for the optionally available Dynamic Handling package offers separate setting options for the suspension (SPORT button) and powertrain (E/S button), allowing the driver more scope for influencing the comfort-oriented or sporty settings.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) snagged in the wintry Sweden

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The future generation of the C-Class reveals more and more details from underneath the thinner cladding as new spy pics captured in Northern Scandinavia emerge on the internet.

The prototype spotted by photographers is a C 205 in Avantgarde trim line, given the big Mercedes-Benz star placed on the radiator grille. The double-slat design reinforces the genuine values of the brand and is also set to deliver a mindblowing visual effect.

The new generation also adds more centimeters to the overall length of the C-Class as it makes plenty of room for the newly added CLA-Class. Thus, the medium-sized premium sedan will measure 4.70 meters, so the space inside will become even more generous for passengers. New storage compartments will also improve usability and practicality compared to the W 204 model series.

The new progressive design language will deliver a dynamic look to the C-Class, while also retaining the hallmark Mercedes-Benz values which mean elegance above all. The long engine bonnet is inspired by supercars and creates a visual effect of speed and power; at the same time, the rear end seems to have been evolved right from the new S-Class.

Although the new MRA powertrain will deliver a truly sensational ride as engineers promise, it will not sacrifice the superior comfort level of any model produced by the Stuttgart-based constructor. Steering response will be more direct and predictable, so the connection with the road will be firmer and safer. The multiple assistance technologies will also lend a helping hand to ensure an enjoyable driving experience.

The 2014 C-Class will make extensive use of LEDs instead of conventional bulbs, like the soon-to-be-revealed S-Class. Moreso, the mid-class model will also be capable to do a 360-degree surveillance with the help of the Stereo Multi Purpose Camera (SMPC). A decent number of airbags, including knee bags (for the front seats) and belt bags (for the back seats) as well as the complex PRE-SAFE system take care of passengers and diminish the effects of accidents, in case they eventually happen.

The range of diesel and gasoline engines will be quite rich, right from the start of sales. All units come equipped with BlueEFFICIENCY package and ECO start/stop technology. Ranging from 156 hp up to 333 hp, there is always the right choice to suit every taste. Clean BlueTEC powerplants will also be available - 211 hp for the C 250 BlueTEC and 252 hp for the C 300 BlueTEC. A hybrid version is still under consideration, but it could greenlighted for production towards 2015. The forthcoming C 63 AMG will be powered by a new twin-turbo V8 engine featuring a 4.0-litre displacement and near 470 hp. From 2016, the new straight-six engines Mercedes-Benz plans to reveal on the W 213 generation of the E-Class will also be offered on the C-Class as replacement for the outgoing V6 units running on both petrol and diesel.

Image Credits: Automedia / GermanCarForum

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) - fresh shots from Germany

Don't Copy From This Blog...

After the first bunch of FEP spy shots which looked somewhat intriguing, the latest series of scoops with the forthcoming C-Class generation, captured in Stuttgart outside the Mercedes-Benz R&D Center, are again reheating the situation and building up enthusiasm in the fans' souls.

The new C-Class, slated to debut in spring 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show, will boast a new design identity for Mercedes-Benz. If the new S-Class coming this summer will be evolutionary in terms of design and will herald the advent of the real revolution. The mid-sized premium sedan sports a sporty, dramatic and unprecedented styling for Mercedes-Benz, judging by the shapes hidden underneath the thinner camouflage.

For more individuality, the three model lines of the new C-Class will be even more distinguishable than today, through dedicated detail customization of the exterior. Like the current series, the 205 generation will too continue to feature three exclusive front fascias as follows: the entry-level version displays a new chrome lamella grille with three grey, contrasting louvres; the Elegance variant boasts a new chrome lamella grille with three high-sheen black, contrasting louvres; the Avantgarde and AMG Sport Package models sport the dynamic Star grille in silver colour.

Although the entire philosophy is a bit unprecedented at Mercedes-Benz and highly controversial from many points of view, we cannot recognize the efforts paid by the designers led by Gorden Wagener to offer a new, distinct styling for the C-Class in addition to the firm desire of attracting new clients towards the Stuttgart-based constructor.

The interior lines, as seen in the scoops we published some long time ago (see HERE), continues the dynamic lines of the exterior. The dashboard will be an evolution of the latest interior designs - you shall find some traces of CLA, as well as new S-Class when you step inside the new C-Class.

The LCD screen for the infotainment system will no longer be integrated into the dashboard, like for the new A-Class and CLA-Class. A new arrangement of the controls on the center console will certainly improve functionality. The big slab that defines the mid section of the dashboard will be used for different, premium trim materials such as wood, metal, carbon fibre or leather.

The main technical highlights will be transferred from the S-Class. A new rear-driven MRA platform with enhanced dynamical capabilities will replace the current powertrain. Moreover, a new set of revised manual and automatic gearbox will further improve ride quality and efficiency levels. The engines that put the W 205 generation into motion will all feature ECO start/stop and direct injection for added economy and low emission levels. The entry-level model, the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY (BE), starts at 122 hp and is followed by C 200 BE with 156 hp, the C 220 CDI BE with 170 hp, the C 250 BE with 211 hp, the C 250 CDI BE with 204 hp, the C 300 BlueTEC with 252 hp, probably the C 350 CDI BE with 265 hp, and finally the C 400 BE with V6 power and 333 hp. The range-topping C 63 AMG model is expected to debut towards 2015 (with the official premiere slated for the 2014 Paris motor show) and will be equipped with company's newly developed bi-turbocharged, 8-cylinder engine with a total displacement of 4.0 litres and rated at around 460-470 hp.

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) - first FEP prototypes hit streets

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The road development for the future C-Class began in late December 2011. Almost a year after, the test prototypes of the 205 series have finally lost their heavy exterior cladding and are now revealing more details in regard to the final design of the premium mid-class model.

The usual conservativeness of the German brand seems to have been blown away in favour of a striking, deeply scary approach. With the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz reorientates its core values and targets new customers. But to us, in spite of the fact this strategy nevertheless adds a dose of passion and attitude to the future Star model, it may also make the whole car feel a bit incongruent, disproportionate and pretty unMerc. Why? Follow through the next paragraphs to understand our concern.

Straight away, the first impression that draws after seeing these latest shots emphasizing FEP prototypes is the rather dramatic influence from the upcoming S-Class, in addition to the tad more organic styling philosophy. As its lifecycle began approximately a year - a year and a half after the introduction of the range-topping Mercedes-Benz model, it is logical to have certain similarities, but never such plain identical shapes.

While this is is hardly bad for the C-Class, it could be bad for the S-Class, no matter how you put it. It can affect the prestige and uniqueness of the luxury flagship. This attempt to reduce the gap between the two models in terms of exterior looks is unprecedented at Mercedes-Benz and could have been inspired by the competition - where different class models are quite resembling one another (see the Audi A8, A6 and A4, for example).

Other crucial aspect is that the future C-Class seems to be very curvaceous and sloppy - if you ask us, this could spell a greater number of younger clients turning to choose the W 205 over the competitors, but it could also mean traditional customers may feel disappointed and be tempted to look for a better alternative on the other side of the road.

One good thing is the removal of the irrational surfacing profile lines seen on some of the current Merc models - or, at least, this is what our eyes depict at the moment. Instead, a new upper crease running alongside the car, which thus clearly defines the muscular shoulders and highlights the new door handles, was adopted.

We are left a bit speechless by the third volume of the car - the boot section. The overhang is anything but long, while the entire entity is overly rounded and creates the effect of a hatchback, at least when seen from a 3/4 frontal view. The way the boot lid opens and the tail lamps, still hidden under black tape, scream from all over the place: S-Class, S-Class, S-Class.

We saved the best for last, however. The front fascia looks promising, with its larger radiator grille and the headlights moved towards the extremities in order to create an outstanding impression. Inspiration was taken from the S-Class (quite obviously), but there is also a sensible influence from the F 800 Style research vehicle as well. This creates a sense of individuality which perfectly meets the progressive design philosophy the new C-Class will display.

All in all, the future 205 series will add a few important centimeters (we guess up to 4.70 m) to its overall length compared to the present model (4.591 m), as to further accomodate the new CLA (4.63 m) in the lower range. The longer front overhang and the generous surface of the bonnet help deliver a solid attitude but also take their massive toll on the rear end by painfully counterbalancing its short-run proportions.

To summarize, we shall save more impressions for later on, when we are approaching the moment of premiere and more camouflage is shed away. But for now, our point is that the new C-Class is indeed sporting rather strange clothes. While the general feel is that the W 205 C-Class will continue to be an elegant mid-sized saloon for the wealthy ones, the overall roundness of the body could end up offering the car an inconsistent expression that might not be appreciated by some.

Sticking to technical side of things, the new C-Class will abund in state-of-the-art technology. The revolution going on underneath the sheet metal of the body shall match the revolution on the outside. A new rear-driven powertrain called MRA should improve both comfort and, more importantly, driving dynamics - one department Mercedes-Benz has never been the leader, but is now paying consistent efforts to make up for the lost time. Intelligent sensors that can detect the imminence of an accident, that can read road signs or tell the driver when it is time for a coffee break will also equip the new C-Class.

Enhanced efficiency and added performance were the main targets for the new petrol and diesel engines to be found under the hood. The entire lineup will feature ECO start/stop technology and clever BlueEFFICIENCY solutions that reduce fuel consumption and the CO2 level. Together with the otherwise streamlined, aerodynamic silhouette, it shall further decrease those values, while also creating an enjoyable, soundproof atmosphere inside the car.

The new powerplants range from the entry-level C 180 petrol-burning version with 120 hp up to the high-end C 400 model sporting company's brand new 3.0-litre direct-injection V6 unit rated at 333 hp. From the end of 2014, the new high performance C 63 AMG will enter the stage. Power will come from an all new 4.0-litre BITURBO 8-cylinder engine developing a peak output over 450 hp and more than 600 Nm of maximum torque.

Look for the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) to be unveiled early next year, with the official world premiere scheduled for Geneva in March. In the mean time, surf through the gallery and don't forget to stay tuned to www.mercedesgla.blogspot.com to be the first to find out the hottest news on this subject! Enjoy! :)

Image Credits: GermanCarForum / Autowereld

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

Five Stars for Mercedes-Benz: C-Class and M-Class get top marks in more stringent US crash test

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Since the American crash test program US NCAP was made more stringent in 2010, only a few vehicles have achieved the highest assessment with five stars. These elite vehicles include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and M-Class. These both also achieved top marks in the European Euro NCAP rating and in the test by the American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), thereby confidently mastering three of the most challenging international safety ratings. This underlines Mercedes-Benz's exceptional position as a pioneer in safety and a technical trendsetter.

The manufacturer-independent US NCAP rating (US New Car Assessment Program) is similar to its European counterpart Euro NCAP in many regards. However, the US program significantly tightened up many of the requirements in 2010, also including additional tests in the rating. This resulted in a dramatic decrease in the number of five-star results. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and M-Class are among the few vehicles to have achieved the top result of five stars according to the new criteria which are based on real-life accident scenarios.

Unlike the Euro NCAP, the updated US rating uses a significantly heavier deformable barrier (1368 kg compared with 950 kg) for the side collision in order to comply with the increased average weight of modern American vehicles. Another example: A rigid barrier is constructed for the frontal collision instead of a deformable barrier. The vehicle also hits the barrier with a full overlap (40 percent in Euro NCAP). The test program has also been expanded to include a lateral angled pole impact.

The assessment criteria have also been made significantly more stringent. The probability of serious injury to the head (head injury criterion) and the strain on the throat, chest and femur of the driver and front passenger are evaluated. In order to get five stars, the probability of serious injury must be under five percent.

As well as in the challenging new US NCAP rating, the C-Class and M-Class also achieved five-star results in the Euro NCAP, just like all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars have for many years. The American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a private organisation led by various commercial vehicle insurance companies, also declared both Mercedes-Benz model series to be "Top Safety Picks" thanks to their outstanding test results.

Mercedes-Benz believes these national and international safety ratings to be very sensible. However, the safety experts for the premium brand with the three-pointed star will not settle for merely achieving rating targets; instead they work constantly and intensively on achieving a level of safety that exceeds the standards required by all the legislation worldwide. Actual accident scenarios are therefore an important benchmark for their work. This is why they have been investigating thousands of specific accidents for several years. On this incorruptible basis, Mercedes-Benz has developed a safety concept which not only aims to prevent accidents but also minimize the consequences of them. The experts call the result of their work "Real Life Safety".

Based on this comprehensive safety philosophy, Mercedes-Benz has developed or initiated several modern safety systems that effectively support drivers. One example is the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, launched ten years ago. It can activate safety measures for the passengers as a precaution, even before an impending crash. The aim is to prepare the occupants and the vehicle for an imminent collision, by, for example, ensuring that the seat belts and airbags can implement their full protective effect during an impact. PRE-SAFE® is now available in 14 model series right across the Mercedes-Benz model range.

As another indicator of its power of innovation when it comes to occupant protection, Mercedes is further expanding its protection for rear seat passengers with the active belt buckle and the beltbag. An electric motor automatically moves the belt buckle up and down as part of the active belt buckle. This allows belt slack in the pelvis and thorax regions to be reduced and passengers are better secured both laterally and longitudinally. The beltbag is an inflatable belt strap which can reduce the risk of injury to rear-seat passengers in the event of a frontal collision by reducing the forces exerted on the rib cage.

The "Real Life Safety" holistic approach pursued by accident researchers at Mercedes-Benz also increasingly leads to the fusion of comfort and safety, thanks to the implementation of intelligent assistant systems which Mercedes-Benz groups together under the name "Intelligent Drive". This includes systems which could, for the first time, prevent accidents with crossing vehicles or pedestrians, as well as an active lane keeping assist system which could also prevent accidents with oncoming traffic. Anti-dazzle permanent main-beam headlamps are also in development.

Assistance systems like these are not yet generally required by vehicle safety rating systems but various institutions are already starting to request them.

Mercedes-Benz is constantly increasing the performance of these assistance systems. The aim is all-round protection, not only for the occupants of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, but also for all other road users.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SPY: The future Mercedes-Benz C-Class family (205 series) goes testing in sunny Spain

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Around spring 2014, Mercedes-Benz will release the first model under its new C-Class 205 series - the limousine. Street development began approximately one year ago, with various prototypes being spotted in Europe, near the Arctic Circle and in the United States. So far, we have dealt only with test vehicles for the sedan variant (W 205), but we feel the wagon (T-Modell) S 205 and the coupe C 205 will also be released in the wild in the next period. If rumors are true, then we should also see a camouflaged cabriolet prototype under the A 205 designation on the roads starting mid-2013.

The future C-Class portfolio will herald a revolutionary styling philosophy for the Stuttgart-based constructor, which will combine the traditional, classic inspirational lines of the proud Mercedes-Benz ancestors with a dynamic, progressive approach to create a mindblowing visual effect. Appearantly, test vehicles have lost some of the outer cladding and now some details can be clearly seen. All in all, when the body is looked at from the side, the reverse-wedge shape comes to light.

The front end is situated at a lower level than the trunk area, which adds up to elegant sportiness of the car. Moreover, the headlights, which might bare some inspiration to the F 800 Style, the longer grille and the new shape of the front air intakes are sure to deliver a powerful stance.

The shuttle will boast outstanding construction quality and new, softer materials that are also very attractive visually speaking. Foamy plastics, fine essence wood trims, metal and leather upholstery for multiple tastes make up the elements that will garnish the cabin of the new C-Class. The general architecture of the dashboard will use the A-Class as inspiration, but expect more exclusiveness and less passion as the W 205 is addressed to a different target group of clients.

The next generation C-Class will be a safe place to spend time in while travelling between A and B. Most of the breakthroughs the new S-Class (W 222) will premiere next year will be, in one way or another, transferred to the premium mid-class model. Car-2-X integrated communication system could be offered, as well as the revolutionary Collision Prevention Assist, the improved PRE-SAFE and the complete array of airbags for the best level of passive protection. The all new @yourCOMAND infotainment system will also be included in the equipment of the new C-Class.

A green revolution will happen beneath the engine hood. The 2014 C-Class will feature a consistent range of petrol and diesel powerplants, from 1.6 litres up to 5.5 litres in displacement. Hybrid variants are also from 2015 onwards. The new range-topping versions will be the C 400 BlueEFFICIENCY with 340 hp and the C 63 AMG (or C 55 AMG ??) with over 470 hp. It is rumored that AMG is currently developinga new V8, bi-turbocharged unit with a total displacement of 4.0 litres, but that is yet to be officially confirmed. Until everything gets clear, the future C-Class AMG model, scheduled for late 2014, could use the current 5.5-litre V8 BITURBO engine.

Image Credits: Autoevolution / WorldCarFans / Autowereld / Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More