The new C-Class Sedan

Contents

Did you know?
Design: Sensual purity with a sporty and elegant touch
Exterior design: Profile with attractive light effects
Interior design: sporty touches thanks to the driver-oriented design
Latest generation of MBUX: intuitively operated and learning
Hey Mercedes: the increasingly sharp voice assistant
Smart Home: Mobile intelligence for maximum operating convenience from a distance
Music streaming: millions of songs to choose from
Other highlights in connection with MBUX
"Over-the-air" (OTA) updates: The software is always kept up-to-date
Powertrain: systematic electrification of the modern four-cylinder engines
Four-cylinder gasoline engine also with a second-generation ISG
Technical Specifications:
Suspension system: comfort and agility
Driving assistance systems: stress-relief and support in hazardous situations
Three examples that showcase the advancement of driving assistance systems are:
Intelligent parking systems support the driver when manoeuvring
Crash safety: fit for all global requirements
DIGITAL LIGHT: extremely powerful with optional projection functions
The new C-Class offers more space in the front and rear
A success story: bestseller for many years
A global production network with digital cutting-edge technologies

The descriptions and information in this press kit apply to the international model range of Mercedes-Benz. Details may vary from country to country. The product features and equipment described may be optional equipment. The description of the features gives no indication of availability in terms of time. More information about the vehicles on offer, including the WLTP figures, can be found for each country at www.mercedes-benz.com

Did you know?

… in the last decade, the C-Class was the highest-volume Mercedes-Benz model? Since the introduction of the current generation in 2014, more than 2.5 million units of the Sedan and Wagon have been sold. All in all, over 10.5 million Mercedes-Benz cars of this category have been delivered to customers since 1982.

… China has been the largest sales market for the C-Class Sedan since 2016. After China, the USA, Germany and Great Britain have been the largest sales markets for the C-Class Sedan and Wagon over the past ten years.

… both the front and rear passengers will benefit from the moderately increased exterior dimensions of the new model generation. Elbow-room has been increased by 22 mm in the front and 15 mm in the rear over the previous model. Headroom in the rear has increased by 13 mm. Thanks to up to 35 mm more kneeroom in the rear, journeys are even more pleasant for passengers in the rear.

… the C-Class has taken another major step forward with respect to digitization and high quality. The interior now has highlights such as the display and operating concept adopted from the new S-Class, with a sporty interpretation. This is accentuated by another design feature: the dashboard and central display are slightly tilted towards the driver.

… domestic equipment and household appliances can be controlled using the "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant of MBUX. Thanks to the Smart Home function, they can be networked with the vehicle and controlled remotely.

… the light in each DIGITAL LIGHT headlight is refracted and directed by means of 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle. DIGITAL LIGHT is optionally available with a projection function¹. This system can make driving safer by projecting guide lines, symbols and animations onto the road.

This is how inspiring the comfort zone can be

More powerful than its precessor, the C-Class Sedan benefits from a newly developed 2.0-litre engine that produces 255 hp on demand. With a second generation integrated starter-generator (ISG) and a 48-volt on-board electrical system, the new C-Class is the first classic Mercedes-Benz model series to undergo a systematic electrification of its powertrains. The second-generation ISG provides an additional 20 hp and 147 lb-ft more torque. An optimally tuned 9G-TRONIC transmission guarantees perfect sequences in all driving situations, smoother gearshifts, and strong acceleration. The C-Class benefits from extensive exterior design updates, including softened body lines, a widened track, powerdomes on the hood, and two-piece taillights for the rear of the vehicle. Much like the S-Class, the interior of the C-Class features a driver-oriented cockpit and floating dashboard, a free-standing high-resolution LCD screen, a portrait oriented high-definition touch screen, and the second generation of the highly intelligent Mercedes-Benz User Experience. The new C-Class Sedan will arrive in Canadian dealer showrooms in Q1 of 2022.

Design: Sensual purity with a sporty and elegant touch

With its dynamic proportions – a combination of a short front overhang, a long wheelbase, and a rear overhang – the new C-Class already looks to be in motion, even when at a standstill.

Its sporty hood featuring power domes accentuates this ‘forward motion’. Known as a ‘cab-backward’ design, the windscreen and passenger cell have been moved to the rear. The new C-Class builds on the high-value appeal of its predecessor’s interior, and goes even further with respect to modern luxury. The C-Class adopts many of its interior highlights from the new S-Class, adding a sporty yet refined touch to the sedan.

Exterior design: Profile with attractive light effects

When viewed from the side, the elaborately sculptured surfaces of the C-Class’s exterior create unique light effects. Conversely, the designers have reduced lines to a minimum to accentuate the ‘catwalk’ line or the main body line that stretches the entire length of the vehicle, even more. A wide track - with flush 18 to 19-inch wheels - further underscores this modern design.

The brand’s hallmark radiator grille characterizes the front of the new C-Class. All models feature a central star, with the design and character of the grille differing in the details. With Sport Package, the front of the vehicle is graced by a diamond grille paired with a star designed in chrome.

The rear of the vehicle features a design that is typical of a Mercedes-Benz sedan. The high-quality design of the taillights fascinates with an unmistakable day and night appearance. For the very first time, the taillights of the sedan feature a two-piece design, with the light functions divided between the side wall and trunk lid lights.

The exterior upgrades do not stop there, in fact, three new paint finishes – spectral blue, high-tech silver and opalite white – have been added to the colour range, for an added touch of personalization.

Interior design: sporty touches thanks to the driver-oriented design

Much like the S-Class, the new C-Class features a dashboard that is divided into an upper and a lower section, which host new design elements such as the round aircraft engine nacelle-like air vents, and an opulent expanse of trim. The trim flows from the centre console to the dashboard without interruption. Both the dashboard and central display are tilted towards the driver by six degrees, further reinforcing the driver-oriented sportiness of the all-new C-Class.

The driver area features a free-standing high-resolution LCD screen which appears to float in front of the wing profile and the expanse of trim. This sets the driver display apart from traditional cockpits that feature analogue, classic round dials. Customers have a choice between a 10.25-inch (26.0 cm) or a 12.3-inch (31.2 cm) version of the LCD screen.

A continued shift toward digitization becomes obvious in the central display, as vehicle functions can be controlled via the high-quality touchscreen. Featuring a portrait orientation, the touchscreen is particularly advantageous for navigation. Much like the dashboard, the C-Class’s touchscreen appears to float above the expanse of trim and is slightly tilted towards the driver. The central display has a screen diagonal of 11.9 inches (30.2 cm) as standard.

A high-quality chrome insert divides the centre console into a rear, padded section for the armrest, and a front section in lustrous jet black.

The modern, minimalist design of the door panels frames both ends of the dashboard. The door centre panel with integrated armrest morphs the vertical surface into a horizontal orientation. Reflecting the design of the centre console, the front section takes the form of a metallic high-tech element. It can be used as a grab or closing handle, and houses the power window controls. Another highlight is the floating control cluster, into which the door opener and seat adjustment controls are integrated.

The seats of the new C-Class feature a special design that uses layers and enveloping surfaces to create the visual impression of lightness. The head restraints are completely redesigned and are attached to the backrest with a sealed piece of trim under which the adjustment mechanism is located.

A man-made leather dashboard that features nappa-look beltlines is available for the C-Class when selected with Sport Package. The range of available trim showcases innovative surfaces and includes new interpretations of open-pored veneers in brown and black tones, and open-pored wood veneers featuring fine inlays of genuine aluminum that follow the dashboard's contours.

The driver and media displays offer a holistic, aesthetic experience. The look of the screens can be individualized with three display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service). In "Sporty", the colour red is predominant and the central rev counter has a dynamic design. The new C-Class is equipped with ambient lighting featuring optical fibres as standard.

Latest generation of MBUX: intuitively operated and learning

Like the S-Class, the new C-Class is equipped with the second generation Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX). The vehicle interior becomes even more digital and intelligent, as both the hardware and software work seamlessly to provide brilliant images on the LCD screens that make it easy to control vehicle and comfort functions.

The driver display and media display offer a holistic, aesthetic experience. The information is presented in a clearly structured way. With the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz had developed a new display aesthetic, which is now used as the basis for other models.
The look of the screens can be individualized with three display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service).

• In "Classic" style, the driver is welcomed with a familiar display environment. The proven display with two tubes and changing content between them provides all relevant information to the driver.
• "Sporty" is dominated by the colour red, with dynamic design of the central rev counter.
• In "Discreet" style, the content is reduced to what is essential. In addition, both screens can be shown in seven colour schemes with the ambient lighting. This makes for an impressive colour experience in the interior.
• In "Assistance Mode", the traffic situation is shown in real time supplemented with important display information.

The full-screen navigation was adopted from the S-Class, and gives the driver the best possible guidance on a journey.

Hey Mercedes: the increasingly sharp voice assistant

The voice assistant "Hey Mercedes" becomes more interactive and capable of learning by activating online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword "Hey Mercedes". These include taking a telephone call. "Hey Mercedes" also explains vehicle functions, and, for example, can help when asked how to connect a smartphone via Bluetooth or where the first-aid kit can be found.

"Hey Mercedes" is also able to recognize different vehicle occupants by their voices.

Smart Home: Mobile intelligence for maximum operating convenience from a distance

With the MBUX Smart Home function, the C-Class has the capability to become a mobile control centre for the multi person household. The Smart Home function refers to WLAN, sensors and actuators, enabling the home to become intelligent and communicative: temperature and lights, shutters and electrical appliances can be remotely monitored and controlled. Motion detectors and window contacts inform the user of welcome or unwelcome visitors.

"Hey Mercedes, is there anybody in my home right now?"

"I checked. The last movement detected was in the kitchen one hour ago."

This is how future conversations between the driver or passenger and the user's smart home might go using the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) voice assistant. At market launch, the MBUX Smart Home function will support numerous smart home providers – corresponding contracts have already been concluded with Bosch Smart Home and Samsung SmartThings. Further providers will follow, and be announced at a later stage.

Hey Mercedes understands questions and commands in multiple languages (German, Chinese, US, Canadian, and British English). With the Smart Home function, one can control lamps, sockets, thermostats, shutters and blinds, motion detectors and door or window contacts, in addition to temperature sensors directly from the comfort of your vehicle.

Music streaming: millions of songs to choose from

With the "Online Music" service, Mercedes-Benz has now fully integrated major music streaming services into the MBUX infotainment system. MBUX allows seamless access to the personal user profile of the linked music providers. This not only gives customers full access to their favourite songs and playlists, but also the chance to discover millions of songs and curated playlists. Operation is intuitive, using the MBUX voice assistant "Hey Mercedes" or touch controls on the steering wheel, or directly on the display.

Other highlights in connection with MBUX

Augmented Reality Navigation is available as optional equipment. A camera registers the surroundings in front of the vehicle. The moving images are shown on the central display. In addition, virtual objects, information and markers are superimposed on the video image. These include, for example, traffic signs, directional arrows, lane-change recommendations and house numbers. This can make navigation much easier, especially in metropolitan, high-density areas.

optional equipment. The driver sees a virtual image measuring 9 x 3 inches (approx. 23 x 8 cm) floating above the hood at a distance of about 4.5 m.

A fingerprint scanner is located in an ergonomic position below the central display. This allows users to log into MBUX quickly, conveniently and securely. The reason for the finger print scanner is that personal settings and data such as favourites, most recent destinations, behaviour-based predictions, business calendar entries or emails are protected. Payment processes via Mercedes me are also reserved to authenticated users.

"Over-the-air" (OTA) updates: The software is always kept up-to-date

As soon as a new update from Mercedes-Benz becomes available, a message appears in MBUX. The update is downloaded and installed in the background. The user then has to explicitly agree to its activation again. In this way the vehicle is always up-to-date. Features which have not even been invented yet can also be installed by means of OTA updates in vehicles already sold. To transfer the data, Mercedes-Benz relies on mobile communications technology and the communication module installed in the vehicle due to the high security standard.

Powertrain: systematic electrification of the modern four-cylinder engines

As a result of its systematic electrification and intelligent downsizing, the new C-Class sets new standards in efficiency. The engine is a four-cylinder unit from the current modular FAME (Family of Modular Engines) Mercedes-Benz engine family. Accordingly, the engine plays a major role in the flexibility of the international production network, with needs-based electrification.

In addition to turbocharging, the gasoline engine now has an integrated starter-generator (ISG) for intelligent assistance at low engine speeds as a mild hybrid of the second generation. This ensures outstanding power delivery. The ISG uses a 48 volt on-board electrical system that allows functions such as gliding, boosting or energy recovery, and makes significant fuel savings possible.

The engine also starts very rapidly and comfortably, so that the start/stop function is almost as imperceptible to the driver as the transition from gliding with the engine switched off to strong acceleration under engine power. When idling, the intelligent interaction between the ISG and the combustion engine ensures outstandingly smooth operation.

Four-cylinder gasoline engine with a second-generation ISG

The four-cylinder M 254 combustion engine with a second-generation starter-generator creates an additional output of up to 20 hp and 147 lb-ft more torque for the new C-Class. As a result of energy recovery and the ability to "glide" with the engine switched off, the gasoline engine is highly efficient.

In the M 254, Mercedes-Benz has for the first time combined all the innovations of the modular engine family of four and six-cylinder units in a single engine. They include NANOSLIDE® cylinder coating and CONICSHAPE cylinder honing (trumpet honing).

A completely new feature is the segment charger with flow connection, an advancement of the twin-scroll technology for even more instantaneous response of the forced induction system. The completely newly developed segment turbocharger is a result of cooperation between Mercedes-Benz turbocharger developers and the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 team. The technology transfer to series production sets new standards in power and efficiency.

The 9G-TRONIC transmission

The 9G-TRONIC transmission was developed further for adapting the ISG, and is installed in all C-Class models. The electric motor, power electronics, and transmission cooler are now housed in or near the transmission. Previously required lines are eliminated, which offers advantages in installation space and weight. In addition, the efficiency of the transmission has been increased.

Among other aspects, the optimized interplay with the electric auxiliary oil pump reduces the delivery rate of the mechanical pump by 30 percent. Furthermore, it uses a new generation of the fully integrated transmission control with multi-core processor and new design and connectivity technology. In addition to the increased computing power, the number of electric interfaces has been drastically reduced, and the weight of the transmission control has been cut by 30 percent.

The 4MATIC drive system has been advanced further for the new C-Class. The new front-axle drive allows higher torque levels to be transferred with an ideal axle load distribution for driving dynamics. Moreover, this has a significant weight advantage compared to the corresponding component in the preceding series – a contribution to CO2 reduction. The technicians were also able to reduce the friction losses in the new transfer case. In addition, it also has a closed oil circuit, and requires no additional cooling measures.

Technical Specifications:

Suspension system: comfort and agility

The key components of the new, dynamically configured suspension are a new four-link axle at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear mounted to a subframe. The new suspension provides the basis for a high level of suspension, ride and noise comfort, agile handling and driving fun.

Driving assistance systems: stress-relief and support in hazardous situations

Compared to the previous C-Class series, the latest generation of the Intelligent Drive Package has additional and advanced functions. These reduce driver workload in day-to-day situations, for more comfortable and safe driving. When danger threatens, the assistance systems are able to respond as necessary to impending collisions. The operating principle of the systems is visualized on the driver display by a new display concept.

Three examples that showcase the advancement of driving assistance systems are:

• On all types of roads – highways, country roads or in town – Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC can automatically maintain a preset distance from vehicles ahead. New to this feature is the ability to react to stationary vehicles on the road at driving speeds of up to 100 km/h, which was previously limited to 60 km/h.
• Active Steering Assist helps the driver to stay in lane at speeds up to 210 km/h. New features include additional lane recognition with the 360° camera, significantly improved availability and performance in bends on country roads and improved lane centring on highways.
• In addition to conventionally posted speed limits, Traffic Sign Assist recognizes signs on overhead gantries and at roadworks. Even conditional instructions (e.g. "when wet") are recognized by evaluation of all onboard sensors. New are the stop sign and red traffic light warning functions.

Intelligent parking systems support the driver when manoeuvring

As a result of improved surround sensors, the parking systems give the driver even better support when manoeuvring at low speed. Operation is faster and more intuitive as a result of better integration into MBUX. Emergency braking functions also serve to protect other road users.

Crash safety: fit for all global requirements

Few models are sold in as many markets as the C-Class, which is currently available in over 100 countries. Around 1,000 load stage variants are therefore examined during the course of development, as all engine and body variants, right and left-hand drive, hybrids or 4-MATIC models meet the same requirements.

The safety concept of the C-Class is based on an intelligently designed body shell with a rigid passenger cell and crash structures that deform in a specific way, which act together with seat belts and airbag systems. In an accident, systems such as belt tensioners and airbags can be activated to protect the occupants as the situation demands. With the help of numerous simulations, the vehicle structure was configured to ensure particularly good occupant protection in the event of a crash. In all aspects of the vehicle configuration that are relevant in an accident, the legal requirements were further bolstered by internal testing requirements and test criteria derived from the findings from real-life accident scenarios.

DIGITAL LIGHT: extremely powerful with optional projection functions

The new C-Class is equipped with LED High Performance headlights as standard. The DIGITAL LIGHT system from the new S-Class is also available as an option. This revolutionary headlight technology allows for new functions like the projection of guide lines or warning symbols onto the road ahead. DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlight. The light from each headlight is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle.

With such precision, this intelligent system creates virtually endless possibilities for high-resolution light distribution which optimally adjusts to the surrounding conditions. The driving force is not only the headlight technolgy, but rather the digital intelligence behind it. Onboard cameras and sensor systems detect other vehicles on the road, and powerful computers evaluate the data and digital navigation maps in milliseconds to give the headlights the commands to optimally adapt the light distribution in all situations. The result: optimal vision for the driver without dazzling other drivers, as well as innovative functions with added safety. DIGITAL LIGHT achieves excellent visibility and maximum, dazzle-free brilliance at all times through an innovative overall concept. Innovative functions for supporting the driver and enabling communication with other road users significantly improve safety when driving at night.

DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function² is available as an option. This system can make driving safer by projecting guide lines, symbols and animations onto the road.

• For example, DIGITAL LIGHT projects two guide lines when encountering roadworks. These roughly delineate the vehicle's width. The driver is therefore given even better guidance in the narrowed roadway.
• The intelligent technology highlights pedestrians in the danger zone with a spotlight function and clarifies their position with projected direction points.
• Drivers travelling against the prescribed direction on highway ramps or one-way streets are warned by a symbol.
• The same warning symbol appears before running red lights or stop signs.

The new C-Class offers more space in the front and rear

With a length of 4751 mm and a width of 1820 mm, the new C-Class Sedan is considerably larger than its predecessor. The wheelbase has increased by 25 mm to 2865 mm. Both the front and rear passengers benefit from the increased exterior dimensions.

Here are the most important dimensions:

A success story: bestseller for many years

In the last decade, the C-Class has been the highest-volume Mercedes-Benz model. Since the introduction of the current generation in 2014, more than 2.5 million Sedan and Wagon models have been sold. China has been the largest sales market for the C-Class Sedan since 2016. The USA, Germany and Great Britain have been the largest sales markets for the C-Class Sedan and Wagon models in the last ten years. In 2020, the C-Class Sedan and Wagon were delivered to customers in more than 100 markets around the world.

The C-Class success story began in 1982 when the Mercedes-Benz 190 was launched as a mid-size model. As it was the smallest car in the Mercedes-Benz range at the time, it soon earned the nickname 'Baby Benz'. It was not only with combustion engines – for example the sporty 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution with a four-valve engine – that Mercedes-Benz repeatedly made its mark, but also with alternative powertrains: For example, the 190 E Elektro as an experimental car based on the 201 series was presented at the Innovation Market of the Hanover Fair in 1990, and at the Geneva Motor Show in 1991. Two electric motors excited by permanent magnets, each with 21 hp, fed by sodium/nickel chloride batteries powered the rear wheels.

Since 1982, Mercedes-Benz has delivered more than 10.5 million mid-size luxury sedans to its customers. The first mid-size sedan under the C-Class designation was introduced in May 1993. 

For many customers, the C-Class is the entry-level to the premium car segment. In China and South Korea, the C-Class Sedan is their first premium brand vehicle for around 50 percent of its buyers. In many markets, the C-Class Sedan attracts a high proportion of female customers. The percentage of women is particularly high in the USA and South Korea: nearly one in every two C-Class Sedans is purchased by women.

The market launch of the fourth C-Class generation in 2007 saw the introduction of a new design feature. For the first time, the front-end design of a Mercedes-Benz Sedan varied according to the design and equipment. While the luxury design and equipment line featured the three-pointed star in its traditional position on the hood, it was mounted in the centre of the radiator grille in the sport design and equipment line.

A global production network with digital cutting-edge technologies

The new C-Class will be produced in the Mercedes-Benz Cars plants in Bremen (Germany), Beijing (China) and East London (South Africa). The Bremen plant, the largest private employer in the region with more than 12,000 employees, is the lead plant for this model series in the international C-Class production network. The new C-Class will be flexibly integrated into ongoing series production around the world. Close, digitally supported cooperation between the employees in the global C-Class production network will allow a smooth production start-up in all the plants around the world.

The worldwide production network of Mercedes-Benz Cars provides maximum flexibility. The company’s smart production network is therefore well-positioned to anticipate volatility and changing parameters. The ability to remain agile, in addition to new smart technologies are directly integrated into production. One example of smart production in Bremen is digital shop floor management, which allows production data to be monitored in real time. The QUALITY LIVE system enables the employees to check the quality of every vehicle in real time on a clearly arranged user interface. QUALITY LIVE and digital shop floor management are part of the MO360 digital production ecosystem of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

From 2022, all Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans plants will produce on a carbon-neutral basis. Many Mercedes-Benz plants already source their electrical power from renewable energy sources today, and this also applies to Bremen.

About Mercedes-Benz Canada
Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing, and service of Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,050 people in 17 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of seven Mercedes-Benz own retail operations and 52 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 35,396 vehicles in 2020. This positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the seventh consecutive year.

For more information, please contact:
Lucas Dias         416-847-7466                lucas.e.dias@mercedes-benz.ca

Further information from Mercedes-Benz Canada is available at media.mercedes-benz.ca

_{1 All projection functions are dependent on local approval regulations and are currently available with partial scopes in the USA, the EU, China and the Gulf States.
2 All projection functions depend upon local road traffic regulations, and are available in partial scopes in the USA, the EU, China and the Gulf States.
3 With 225/50 R 17 tires
4 Without/with sliding/tilting sunroof}