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    Mercedes C-Class gets bigger, better & classier

    Synopsis

    The new C-Class isn't cheap, but is surely affordable for a person looking for a miniature version of the S.

    Text: www.topgear.com/india

    By Devesh Shobha

    Affordability is a relative term. Look at the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, for instance. It's been M-B's bread-and-butter car for almost a decade and a half. But, thanks to the A and B-Class taking care of the 'affordable' end of the market, the new C can finally tear up the 'affordable M-B sedan' tag attached to it.

    From any angle, the new C-Class comes across as a baby S-Class. With the bold grille, swept-back headlamps, a bulging shoulder line and those LED taillights, the new C is a head-turner. It looks uncannily similar to the ultimate Merc sedan, but it's about two sizes smaller.

    Step inside the cabin, and you realise the interior is one of the C's strongest points. The brilliantly designed dash sports excellent fit and finish. Plus, a lot of bits feel like they belong to Mercs from higher segments, like the switches on the centre console, the touchpad controller for the new COMAND system, power window switches, the new steering wheel, among others.

    Image article boday


    There's a new 8.4-inch TFT screen for the COMAND system, intelligent LED projector headlamps, adjustable lumbar support and seat squab, sat-nav, keyless start-stop, 13-speaker Burmester audio system, panoramic sunroof, and park assist with reverse camera to name a few.

    Under the hood, there's only a petrol engine available for now, while the diesel variant will follow once assembly starts at Merc's Pune facility. For now, you'll get a fully-loaded sedan with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit, which is good for 181bhp and 300Nm of pulling power. It's mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox that transfers all the power to the rear wheels in a rather sedate manner.

    Image article boday


    The steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, as well as the various 'Agility modes' that the C comes with add a bit more flavour if you're in the mood for a spirited drive. The suspension is set up for a stiff ride, but once you pick up pace, the ride gets much smoother.

    The C stays utterly composed even past 150kph. The styling is spot on, the interior design sets a new benchmark in its segment, while fit and finish and comfort levels are great. At Rs 48 lakh (estimated, on-road, Mumbai) for the Launch Edition model, the new C-Class isn't cheap, but is surely affordable for a person looking for a miniature version of the S.

    Mercedes-Benz C200 CGI

    Image article boday


    Engine: 4cyl, 1991cc, turbo-petrol

    Power: 181bhp

    Torque: 300Nm

    Transmission: 7-speed automatic

    Top speed: 235kph (claimed)

    Efficiency: 8.9kpl (city), 13.5kpl (highway)

    Price: Rs 48 lakh (est. on-road, Mumbai)
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