Badged the C300e in other markets, the plug-in hybrid C-Class is badged C350e in Malaysia as the nameplate has been well-established in this market, and so it is for the plug-in hybrid variant of the W206 here.
Mercedes-Benz claims that the plug-in hybrid is the ideal halfway house between pure internal combustion and fully electric powertrains, and to that end the C350e packs a 25.4 kWh lithium-ion battery powering a 129 PS/440 Nm electric motor that is integrated into the nine-speed automatic transmission.
This is good for a claimed EV range of 117 km on the WLTP cycle, and can go up to 140 km/h on battery power alone. The battery can be charged at up to 11 kW AC, bringing a full charge in two hours.
The aforementioned 129 PS/440 Nm e-motor augments a 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine that produces 204 PS at 6,100 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 2,000 rpm to 4,000 rpm, bringing a combined output of 313 PS and 550 Nm, enabling a 0-100 km/h run in 6.1 seconds and a 245 km/h maximum.
In Malaysia, the drive battery is covered by a six-year, 100,000 km warranty that is in addition to the standard four-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Standard kit for the W206-generation C350e includes Digital Light LED headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch AMG five-spoke alloy wheels, Thermatic dual-zone climate control (with rear vents), and a Nappa leather sports steering wheel.
There’s also Artico man-made leather upholstery, metal-weave trim, powered front seats with memory function, ambient lighting, manual sunblinds for the left and right rear doors, a wireless charging pad, Guard 360, Keyless-Go, AMG floor mats and Hands-Free Access.
Does the W206 Mercedes-Benz C350e really combine the best of internal combustion and battery power? Watch the video review here as our man Hafriz Shah evaluates the PHEV.
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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has revealed the official price of the C350e AMG Line that was introduced to us back in February this year. The plug-in hybrid variant of the fifth-generation (W206) C-Class retails for RM338,888 on-the-road without insurance, which is the same as the C300 AMG Line it replaces while being less than the original estimate of RM355,000.
Like the C200 Avantgarde – the only other C-Class variant you can buy here – the C350e AMG Line is locally assembled (CKD) in Pekan, Pahang. On the mention of the base C-Class variant, the price gap between that and the C350e AMG Line is RM42,000.
For the money, the C350e comes with a 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine that serves up 204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) at 6,100 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. This accompanied by an electric motor rated at 129 PS (127 hp or 95 kW) and 440 Nm, which is integrated into the nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission driving the rear wheels.
The total system output is 313 PS (308 hp or 230 kW) and 550 Nm, which is good for a 0-100 km/h time of 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 245 km/h. When running purely on electricity, the sedan can travel for up to 117 km following the WLTP standard and maxes out at 140 km/h.
Power for the electric motor is supplied by a 25.4-kWh lithium-ion battery that supports AC charging at a max capacity of 11 kW, with a full charge taking two hours. The battery is covered by a six-year/100,000-km warranty that goes on top of the usual four-year manufacturer warranty. It should also be noted the C350e is the only W206 C-Class variant that comes with self-levelling air suspension on the rear axle to compensate for the battery’s weight, with steel springs at the front.
In terms of kit, the C350e comes standard with the AMG Line package that includes grille insert featuring a star mesh pattern, sporty front and rear bumpers, more prominent exhaust finishers as well as a rear diffuser-like element. The Night Package is also included and adds black trim and mirrors caps to the exterior.
Other items that come standard are Digital Light LED headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch AMG five-spoke alloy wheels, Thermatic dual-zone climate control (with rear vents), a Nappa leather sports steering wheel, Artico man-made leather upholstery, metal-weave trim, powered front seats with memory function, ambient lighting, manual sunblinds for the left and right rear doors, a wireless charging pad, Guard 360, Keyless-Go, AMG floor mats and Hands-Free Access.
Infotainment inside the C350e is the Mercedes-Benz User Experience, which is represented on an 11.9-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster display. The system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and comes with a LTE communications module for Mercedes me connect services, a fingerprint scanner and augmented reality for navigation.
2024 Mercedes-Benz C350e AMG Line Malaysia spec sheet; click to enlarge
As for safety and driver assistance systems, the C350e is equipped with, Pre-Safe, pre-installation for Distronic, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist as well as the Parking package with a reverse camera, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic and a 360-degree camera.
At RM338,888, the C350e AMG Line is RM30,000 more than its direct rival, the facelifted BMW 330e M Sport that sells for RM303,888 with the extended warranty and service package. However, the Mercedes-Benz PHEV sedan has more power and provides more electric-only range. Which one would you go for?
GALLERY: 2024 Mercedes-Benz C350e AMG Line in Malaysia
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has introduced the C350e AMG Line to the fifth-generation (W206) C-Class range. The new plug-in hybrid variant is locally assembled (CKD) in Pekan, Pahang and is currently listed with an estimated price of RM355,000 on-the-road without insurance.
It joins the existing C200 Avantgarde that goes for RM292,888 and replaces the C300 AMG Line that was previously priced at RM333,888. The latter was confirmed by MBM during a press conference following the reveal, and a quick check of the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia website revealed the C300 spec sheet has indeed been removed.
The C350e features a 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine that serves up 204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) at 6,100 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. This is augmented by an electric motor rated at 129 PS (127 hp or 95 kW) and 440 Nm, which is integrated into the nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission driving the rear wheels.
This setup yields a total system output of 313 PS (308 hp or 230 kW) and 550 Nm, which is good for top speed of 245 km/h (0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds), or 140 km/h if running purely on electricity. On that mention, the C350e has a lithium-ion battery with an energy capacity of 25.4 kWh that enables an all-electric range of up to 117 km following the WLTP standard – the battery is covered by a six-year/100,000-km warranty on top of the usual four-year manufacturer warranty.
For context, the fourth-generation (W205) C300e facelift, which was previewed in Malaysia way back in June 2019, had a 13.5-kWh battery for up to 50 km of electric-only range. That model was never launched here – we did get the pre-facelift model though – so the return of a PHEV variant for the C-Class means the G20 BMW 330e now has a direct rival.
In terms of charging, the C350e supports AC charging at a max capacity of 11 kW, with a full charge taking two hours when plugged into a charger capable of that output power. Unlike in Thailand, the Malaysian-spec C350e does not come with DC fast charging at 50 kW, which is capable of getting the battery from a 0-80% state of charge within 20 minutes.
Standard equipment for the C350e includes the AMG Line package, which is represented by a grille insert featuring a star mesh pattern, sporty front and rear bumpers, more prominent exhaust finishers as well as a rear diffuser-like element. This is accompanied by the Night Package that adds black trim on the exterior. The C350e is the only W206 C-Class variant that comes with self-levelling air suspension on the rear axle to compensate for the battery’s weight, while the front stays on steel springs.
Other items are Digital Light LED headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch AMG five-spoke alloy wheels, Thermatic dual-zone climate control (with rear vents), a Nappa leather sports steering wheel, Artico man-made leather upholstery, metal-weave trim, powered front seats with memory function, ambient lighting, manual sunblinds for the left and right rear doors, a wireless charging pad, Guard 360, Keyless-Go, AMG floor mats and Hands-Free Access.
Infotainment is the Mercedes-Benz User Experience, which is linked to an 11.9-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster display. The system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and comes with a LTE communications module for Mercedes me connect services, a fingerprint scanner and augmented reality for navigation.
As for safety and driver assistance systems, the C350e is equipped with, Pre-Safe, pre-installation for Distronic, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist as well as the Parking package with a reverse camera, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic and a 360-degree camera.
GALLERY: 2024 Mercedes-Benz C350e AMG Line preview in Malaysia
GALLERY: 2024 Mercedes-Benz C350e AMG Line preview in Malaysia official photos
Believe it or not, we’re only in the fifth generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, so polished has Stuttgart made its erstwhile entry-level model. The company took a while to respond to the all-conquering BMW 3 Series but very quickly started trading blows with its Bavarian nemesis, and with the new W206 model now in Malaysia, the C-Class once again ready to lock horns with the benchmark G20 3 Series.
The new C-Class was initially sold in fully-imported (CBU) form as the C 200 Avantgarde and C 300 AMG Line, priced at RM288,334 and RM330,681 respectively. We say “was” because the car has already been sold out, although you can place your orders for the locally-assembled CKD version, which will likely have an increased kit count if not reduced pricing.
Revealed to the world last year, the W206 derives much of its design cues from the latest W223 S-Class, plastered on its curvaceous shrink-wrapped body. It also comes with a lot of tech from its big sibling, such as the newest version of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) and that big 11.4-inch centre touchscreen.
Both models are powered by the M254 turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with different displacements for each. The C 200 gets a 1.5 litre unit that produces 204 PS and 300 Nm of torque, while the C 300’s 2.0 litre version punches out 258 PS and 400 Nm. Both cars also receive a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox and benefit from a mild hybrid system with a 20 PS/200 Nm integrated starter generator (ISG).
So far, so good. But the outgoing car also suffered from several dynamic shortcomings, so has the new one fixed them all? And can it really take the fight to the impressive G20? Our man and W205 owner Hafriz Shah takes both the C 200 and C 300 for a spin to find out, and you can watch his impressions in the video above. Alternatively, you can read our written review here.
Mercedes-AMG has finally unveiled its take on the latest, fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the C 43 4Matic. Arriving more than a year after the W206’s debut, the German carmaker opted to retain the same name as the previous W205-based model, contrary to ‘C 53 4Matic‘ as what prior reports suggested.
While the name is unchanged, the new C 43 4Matic does come with a more powerful engine than its predecessor. Under the bonnet, you’ll find a 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine taken from the SL 43 in place of the previous 3.0 litre twin-turbo V6.
Despite the reduced capacity and cylinder count, the downsized mill puts out 408 PS (402 hp) and 500 Nm of torque, which is an improvement over the outgoing V6’s 367 PS (362 hp) and 520 Nm, save for peak torque. It should be noted that those figures are also higher than the SL 43’s 381 PS (375 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 480 Nm.
Codenamed M139l (the ‘l’ refers to the engine’s longitudinal layout), the engine is a variation of the M139 used in the A 45 hot hatch and is said to be the world’s first series-production unit to feature an electric exhaust gas turbocharger, with technology derived directly from Formula 1.
According to the company, an electric motor around 4 cm thin is integrated directly on the turbocharger shaft between the turbine wheel on the exhaust side and the compressor wheel on the intake side. This acts to spin the shaft up at low revs until the exhaust gases take over, improving engine response from idle speed and across the entire engine speed range.
The motor is linked to a 48-volt mild hybrid system that also includes a belt-driven starter generator (RSG), which can provide an additional boost of 14 PS (13 hp) depending on the situation. Alternatively, it also facilitates smooth operation of the start-stop and gliding mode functions.
Like the SL 43, the new C 43 comes with an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G nine-speed automatic gearbox, but unlike the convertible, it also gets an AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive system with a rear-biased torque distribution (31% front and 69% rear).
The C 43 can be had as a sedan (W206) or a wagon (S206), with the former taking 4.6 seconds to get from 0-100 km/h, while the wagon takes 4.7 seconds – a tenth faster than the W205 C 43. Both will hit a top speed of 250 km/h, which can be raised to 265 km/h with the optional AMG Driver’s Package. Another option is AMG Real Performance Sound, which picks up engine noise and feeds it into the interior if the regular AMG exhaust system isn’t sufficient.
AMG Ride Control suspension is standard for the C 43 models and includes aluminium front and rear double wishbones, coil springs as well as adaptive dampers. A rear-axle steering system with a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees is also included, along with an AMG sports braking system. The latter sees brake discs measuring 370 mm at the front with four-piston fixed calipers and 320-mm discs with single-piston floating calipers for the rear.
The characteristics of some of these vehicle systems can be configured via the AMG Dynamic Select system, which offers five drive modes (Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual), with AMG Dynamics also included with three modes (Basic, Advanced, Pro) for the car’s Electronic Stability Programme. Each vehicle system can also be individually configured based on the driver’s needs.
Styling-wise, the C 43 boasts AMG-specific cues to mark it out from a regular C-Class. Besides the beefier brakes, there’s also the Panamericana grille with vertical struts in chrome and two round twin-tailpipe trim elements at the rear.
The sporty body kit you see here is similar in appearance to the AMG Line package and includes AMG front and rear bumpers, matching side skirts and a diffuser-like rear apron. AMG light-alloy wheels sized 18 inches are the default, but buyers can also option 19- or 20-inch units.
Inside, you get AMG seats upholstered with Artico man-made leather and Microcut microfibre with red contrast topstitching and seat belts, with real leather and Nappa leather available for a cost. The AMG Performance steering wheel, silver-coloured aluminium shift paddles, carbon-fibre trim, AMG sports pedals as well as AMG-branded floor mats and illuminated door sill trims add to the sporty look.
The MBUX infotainment system also gets AMG-specific displays and functions, including shortcut buttons for the AMG Dynamic Select drive modes and AMG Track Pace for drivers who want to log data during their time out on a race track.
Launched in Malaysia in February this year, the W206-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class arrived in our market in two variants – the C 200 Avantgarde, and the C 300 AMG Line. The sedan duo arrived on the Malaysian market as fully imported (CBU) units, though local assembly (CKD) will become available in the second half of this year.
The latest version of the C-Class that supersedes the W205-generation car has become a larger vehicle in most dimensions, now measuring 4,751 mm long, 1,820 mm wide and 1,438 mm tall with a 2,865 mm wheelbase, making it 65 mm longer, 10 mm wider but nine mm lower than the car it replaces.
Visually, the front ends of the two W206 C-Class variants are distinguished by their grille designs; the C 200 Avantgarde employs vertical louvres behind its main, central emblem, while the C 300 AMG Line gets a diamond grille pattern instead.
Meanwhile at the rear, the C 300 AMG Line gets a bolder rear chrome trim and diffuser treatment with the larger trapezoidal exhaust concealing finishers, compared to the more muted design on the C 200 Avantgarde.
In terms of rolling stock, the C 200 Avantgarde gets 18-inch wheels with 225/45R18 tyres in front and 245/40R18 at the rear, while the C 300 AMG Line gets 19-inch multi-spoke wheels shod in 225/40R19 tyres in front and 255/35R19 tyres at the rear. Behind the wheels, the C 300 AMG Line also gets larger front brakes with cross-drilled discs.
Under the skin, the C 200 packs the manufacturer’s 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine producing 204 PS from 5,800 to 6,100 rpm, and 300 Nm of torque from 1800 to 4,000 rpm. Its 48-volt electrical system now features an integrated starter-generator setup located between the engine and the gearbox, replacing the previous belt-driven configuration.
The C 300 powertrain employs a 2.0 litre version of the same turbocharged petrol four-cylinder, and here the larger capacity engine yields outputs of 258 PS and 400 Nm of torque, the latter figure up the previous 370 Nm, and now present from 2,000 to 3,000 rpm. Both engines are paired with a nine-speed 9G-Tronis automatic gearbox.
For the C 200, this means a 0-100 km/h time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 246 km/h, while the C 300 does the same acceleration benchmark measure in six seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h.
The larger dimensions of the W206 relative to its W205 predecessor mean that rear occupants now get 35 mm more knee room and 13 mm more headroom, while elbow room is up 22 mm and 15 mm for front and rear occupants, respectively. Luggage compartment capacity remains as before at 455 litres.
In both variants of the W206 C-Class in Malaysia, the interior features a 12.3-inch free-standing instrument panel, complemented by a 11.9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen, the latter measuring just one inch smaller than the unit in the flagship S-Class.
Both the instrumentation and infotainment screens offer three display styles – Discreet, Sporty, Classic – along with three modes; Navigation, Assistance and Service. Both screens can be shown in a choice of seven colour schemes, matching the ambient lighting throughout the car’s cabin.
W206 C 200 Avantgarde interior – click to enlarge
For the infotainment itself, the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) setup supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, joined by MBUX Navigation Premium along with an LTE module for Mercedes me connect services.
In terms of upholstery, both the C 200 Avantgarde and C 300 AMG Line get Artico faux leather dashboard coverings and nappa-look beltlines, while variant-specific items are ilver grey diamond-pattern accents and a silver grey criss-cross pattern centre console in the C 200 Avantgarde, while the C 300 AMG Line gets metal weave trim inlays and a mixed texture metal effect veneer for its centre console.
Seating also differentiates the two, where the C 200 gets comfort seats while the C 300 receives sports seats. Meanwhile for the driver, the steering wheel in each variant is also differently styled.
The AMG Line trim package brings a different steering wheel design
Also on the standard equipment list are power-adjustable front seats, Keyless-Go and start, Thermatic automatic climate control, wireless charging for the front section, rain sensing wipers, illuminated side sill panels, rear window roll-up sunblinds and remote boot closing. For chassis, both variants also get Agility Control with selectable damping and Dynamic Select.
On the safety front, passive kit includes seven airbags, while active safety kit includes active lane keeping assist, cruise contriol, active blind spot assist, active brake assist, a lane tracking package, a tyre pressure monitoring system and active parking assist with Parktronic. In this section, the two variants are differentiated by their camera sets; the C 300 has a 360-degree setup, while the C 200 gets by with a reverse camera.
From launch, the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is offered in eight exterior colours – Spectral Blue, Polar White, High-tech Silver, Obsidian Black, Graphite Grey, Selenite Grey, Cavansite Blue and an addition from the Manufaktur palette, Hyacinth Red.
The price? Go for the Mercedes-Benz C 200 Avantgarde wears a price tag of RM288,334, while the Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line is tagged at RM330,681. Both prices are on-the-road, without insurance. Which of these will it be for you?
When Gottlieb Daimler adopted the line “das Beste oder nichts” as his motto more than a century ago, it actually meant something. The prolific German inventor pioneered the high-revving petrol engine as we know it today, and even in the decades after his passing, the Mercedes-Benz company he helped create set the benchmark for technical innovation, culminating in the futuristic (and absurdly expensive) W140 S-Class.
That’s why it’s incredibly ironic the brand adopted the “the best or nothing” maxim as its slogan in 2010 – just as it shed the last vestiges of its engineering-first philosophy. From then on, Mercedes became more interested in giving customers the most flash for their cash than actually building a good car – Sensual Purity design and 64-colour ambient lighting took precedence over things like refinement or ride comfort.
A great example of this was the W205 C-Class. Introduced back in 2014, it offered the suave style of the then-new W222 S-Class (both inside and out, I might add) at a fraction of the price. But it evidently didn’t carry over its big sibling’s serene driving experience – on modestly-specced Malaysian models, at least, it came with rough-sounding engines and a ride that lacked any sort of sophistication whatsoever. Not that this ever hurt the car’s sales performance in our image-conscious market, but I digress.
Tasked to redress that balance is the new W206, which was launched in February. Mercedes has placed a big emphasis on the suspension this time, reducing the number of options and improving the few that remain – all while retaining those big-car looks and tech. But has enough been done to impress this tough critic? We take the car on a round trip to Desaru and back to find out.
The W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has finally arrived in Malaysia. Presently, the all-new compact executive is available in two variants – C 200 Avantgarde and a C 300 AMG Line. Both are fully-imported units, but will make the transition to local assembly in the second half of the year.
In terms of powertrain, the C 200 has reverted to using a 1.5 litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, but this is the newer M254 variant, which replaces the M264 found in the W205 model. Upgrades to the 48-volt electrical system include a new integrated starter generator, helping produce a total output of 204 PS at 5,800 to 6,100 rpm and 300 Nm from 1,800 to 4,000 rpm.
The C 300 also uses the M254 engine, albeit in its 2.0 litre guise. Output remains the same at 258 PS, but torque is up from 370 Nm to 400 Nm. Both engines are paired with the familiar 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission.
Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 7.3 seconds and a 246 km/h top speed for the C 200, while the C 300 brings the 0-100 km/h time down to six seconds and gets to a higher 250 km/h maximum speed.
There are eight exterior colours available for the CBU C-Class – Spectral Blue, Polar White, High-tech Silver, Obsidian Black, Graphite Grey, Selenite Grey, Cavansite Blue and a Manufaktur shade called Hyacinth Red. The C 200 Avantgarde is priced at RM288,334, while the C 300 AMG Line goes for RM330,681. Compare the specifications of both C-Class variants on CarBase.my.
Sighted earlier this month, the wraps have finally come off the 2022 W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, with the fifth-gen executive sedan making its official Malaysian debut today, exactly a year after its world premiere. As previously indicated, the car goes on sale here in two variant forms, as a C 200 Avantgarde and a C 300 AMG Line, similar to the route taken with the W205 C-Class facelift. Both the C-Class models are CBU fully-imported units, but will make the transition to local assembly in the second half of the year.
Sitting on the automaker’s second-generation MRA 2 platform, the W206 measures in at 4,751 mm long, 1,820 mm wide and 1,438 mm tall, making it 65 mm longer, 10 mm wider and nine mm lower than the W205. Its 2,865 mm wheelbase is also 25 mm longer than that of the old car.
Styling-wise, the lines follow the design theme taken with the W223 S-Class, albeit in scaled down proportions, with the slim headlamps and rakish tail lights mimicking that found on the flagship. Identification of the model line is a simple proposition with the new car, given the structured approach to the front ends available for it.
There are three in all, with the base model getting a vertical louvre grille. The Avantgarde also gets the same grille layout, but extends on this with additional decoration in the louvres and by having elements of the grille and front apron surrounds dressed in chrome. As for the AMG Line, it gets a new diamond grille, with its pin design featuring a three-pointed star pattern finished in chrome.
Line-specific trim in the rear bumper also help to identify the different models, as do the wheels in the case of the local models – the C 200 Avantgarde rides on 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, which are specified with run-flat tyres.
As for the C 300 AMG Line, it gets 19-inch AMG multi-spoke units. However, its tyres aren’t run-flats, as denoted by the Tirefit tyre repair kit that is part of its specification – we understand that the AMG Line doesn’t ship with run-flats anymore, and besides, ride comfort is another good reason for going with standard rubbers on 19s. The variant comes specified with larger diameter front brake discs.
Interestingly, both the C 200 and C 300 are fitted with the same headlights, which are the LED High Performance units that ship as standard with the car, as well as adaptive highbeam assist. On the W205, the higher range model had Multibeam LED units, so it’s a surprise to not find the Digital Light LED system (from the S-Class) on the C 300.
As for powertrains, the C 200 has, as predicted, reverted to a 1.5 litre engine configuration, as was the case when the W205 C 200 facelift was introduced here in 2018. However, the 181 hp and 280 Nm M264 four-cylinder turbo – which featured a 48-volt electrical system and a belt-driven starter-generator – was replaced by a 2.0 litre mill in 2020, at which point it also became an AMG Line version.
The unit on the W206 isn’t the same – it’s the new M254 variant, which replaces the M264. Among other things, the redesigned unit features upgrades to the 48V system, replacing the belt driven starter-generator with a new integrated starter generator setup, with the system now placed between the engine and the gearbox.
Previously, the old system was able to support the engine with 13 hp (10 kW) and 160 Nm of boost when needed, but on the new engine the ISG hikes the assist to 20 hp (15 kW) and 200 Nm. On the C 200, the new 1.5 litre engine offers 201 hp (or 204 PS) at 5,800 to 6,100 rpm and 300 Nm from 1,800 to 4,000 rpm, similar numbers to the 2.0 litre unit that replaced its predecessor.
The C 300 also makes the shift away from the M264, and now features the M254 mill in its 2.0 litre guise. Power output remains the same, with 255 hp (or 258 PS) on tap, but torque has been bumped up to 400 Nm (2,000 to 3,200 rpm) from the 370 Nm available previously. Both engines are paired with the familiar 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission, which made its way on to the C-Class with the W205 facelift.
Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 7.3 seconds and a 246 km/h top speed for the C 200, while the C 300 brings the 0-100 km/h time down to six seconds and gets to a higher 250 km/h maximum speed.
Inside, the new car obtains some gains in space for occupants, with 35 mm more knee room and an additional 13 mm headroom in the rear, and there’s more elbow-room as well, to the tune of 22 mm in front and 15 mm at the back, compared to the W205. As for the volume capacity of the boot, it’s the same as the old car, at 455 litres.
Design highlights include a dashboard that is divided into an upper and a lower section and newly-designed air-conditioning vents, reminiscent of aircraft engine nacelles, as well as digital displays. Aside from a 12.3-inch free-standing instrumentation panel screen, both variants feature a visually dominating 11.9-inch portrait-oriented central touchscreen display. The unit, which is just an inch smaller than the one on the S-Class, is very much the centrepiece of the cabin.
Both the instrument and media display can be individualised with three display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service). In addition, both screens can be shown in seven colour schemes, in line with the ambient lighting available for the car.
The C-Class is also specified with a Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support) as well as MBUX Navigation Premium and an LTE communications module for Mercedes me connect services. No Burmester audio system to be found anywhere though, which is a bit of a shame.
In terms of interior upholstery colours, buyers of the CBU units get a choice of three schemes to pick from, and these are black, brown and a brown/black mix. Both cars come with an Artico faux leather covered dashboard and nappa-look beltlines, while variant specific trim on the Malaysian cars consists of silver grey diamond-pattern accents and a silver grey criss-cross pattern centre console for the C 200, and metal weave trim inlays and a mixed texture metal effect veneer for the centre console on the C 300.
There are of course specification differences between the variants – the C 200 gets comfort front seats, while the C 300 is equipped with sports seats. Also, aside from being differently styled (similar to that on the E-Class), the multi-function three-spoke sports steering wheel on the C 200 is dressed in leather, while the C 300’s is finished in Nappa. Elsewhere, the C 300 adds on AMG floor mats.
Standard equipment include powered front seats, Keyless-Go and start, Thermatic automatic climate control, wireless charging in the front section of the cabin, rain sensing wipers, illuminated side sill panels, rear window roll-up sunblinds and remote boot closing. Also common to both models is the suspension configuration, which is an Agility Control system with selective damping and Dynamic Select.
Safety and driving assistance kit includes seven airbags, active lane keeping assist, cruise contriol, active blind spot assist, active brake assist, a lane tracking package, a tyre pressure monitoring system and active parking assist with Parktronic. The only variation is with the camera – while the C 300 has a 360-degree camera, the C 200 makes do with just a reverse function for its unit.
Eight exterior colours are available for the CBU C-Class, and these are Spectral Blue, Polar White, High-tech Silver, Obsidian Black, Graphite Grey, Selenite Grey, Cavansite Blue and a Manufaktur shade called Hyacinth Red. Finally, the price. The fully-imported W206 Mercedes-Benz C 200 Avantgarde is priced at RM288,334 while the C 300 AMG Line goes for RM330,681, both on-the-road without insurance.
We’ve seen the spy shots, the teasers, and even the leaked images ahead of its premiere, but the wait is finally over as the wraps officially come off the 2022 W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which makes its world debut in both sedan and S206 estate forms.
While the fifth-generation model to wear the C moniker may play it safe on the looks front, there’s plenty of new happening under all that skin, including an improved hybrid path that takes the operating range to 100 km on electric power alone.
First, let’s talk about the dimensions. At 4,751 mm long, 1,820 mm wide and 1,438 mm tall, the W206 is 65 mm longer than the W205, with the increase translating to an extra 10 mm in the front overhang and 25 mm in the rear overhang. It’s also wider (+10 mm) and lower (-9 mm) than the W205. At 2,865 mm, the wheelbase has also been increased over the old car, by 25 mm.
As revealed in the leaked images, the shape of the new car – which is underpinned by the automaker’s second-generation MRA 2 platform – largely follows the design inclination taken by the W223 S-Class, mirroring the flagship’s slim headlamps and rakish tail lights and scaling down the proportions to a more compact package.
No more classic tri-star on top of the bonnet, but no shortage of grille designs options
Three front ends are available for the new C-Class, with different details in the grille designs – all now featuring a central tri-star – helping to differentiate the versions in quick fashion.
The base model features louvres, and moving on to the Avantgarde line adds on additional decorative elements in the louvres, with the grille and front apron surrounds also dressed in chrome. An AMG Line is the third, and this is distinguished by a striking diamond grille, with the pin design featuring a three-pointed star pattern finished in chrome.
At the back, the new tail lights are a two-piece design, with the light functions divided between the side wall and boot lid lamps. Line-specific trim in the rear bumper helps differentiate the different model versions. Aside from a host of wheel options ranging from 17- to 19-inch in size, the W206 also gets three new paint finishes, namely Spectral Blue, High-Tech Silver and Opalite White.
The overall form is arguably less shapely – and visually striking – than the W205, although if you’re a fan of reduced lines this one may have strong appeal. In any case, it may look easier on the eye in the metal, as has been the case before, so best not to judge too quickly. One thing that hasn’t changed is the fake exhaust tips, even on the AMG Line model – the real pipes are placed behind, pointing downwards.
As for main lighting, the new C-Class ships with LED High Performance headlamps as standard, but a Digital Light system as seen on the S-Class is now available for the car. The system incorporates a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp, in which light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. Aside from providing high-resolution light, the system also offers new functions such as the projection of guide lines or warning symbols onto the road ahead.
Welcome to a new level of digitalisation, and the world of the big central screen
Move inside and it’s where all the action is, with an interior that borrows the display and operating concept from the S-Class, the interpretation being sported up a bit by angling the dashboard and central display by six degrees towards the driver.
There are plenty of dazzling visual cues. The dashboard itself is divided into an upper and a lower section that flows into a wing-like section with new, flattened round air vents, which the automaker says is reminiscent of aircraft engine nacelles.
As is the case, there is no shortage of interior trim options, which include new interpretations of open-pored veneers in brown tones and a black, open-pored wood veneer featuring fine inlays of genuine aluminium that follow the dashboard’s contours. A dashboard covered with man-made leather and nappa-look beltlines comes standard with the AMG Line, but can be specified as an option in other variants.
As for the seats, optional Avantgarde or sport seats for the new car uses layers and enveloping surfaces to create a visual impression of lightness, and the head restraints are a completely new design, attached to the backrest with a sealed piece of trim, under which the adjustment mechanism is located.
The instrument panel has been modernised to a free-standing, high-resolution LCD screen, and here, two size options are available, a 10.25-inch unit or a 12.3-inch version. Also to be found is a 23 cm by 8 cm colour head-up display, available as an option.
However, it’s the portrait-oriented central touchscreen display that is the visual standout in the front end of the cabin. Shades of Tesla abound strongly with this one, and buyers will also have two size options here. The standard screen is a 9.5 inch unit, but if you believe bigger is better, then the optional 11.9-inch unit (about an inch smaller than the one on the S-Class) should do the trick.
Both the instrument and media display can be individualised 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, while “Discreet” reduces content to what is essential.
In addition, both screens can be shown in seven colour schemes, in line with the ambient lighting available for the car. The net effect of the whole cabin presentation, at least in photos, is undeniable – it leaves the immediate competition for dead in terms of absolute gloss and sophistication.
MBUX makes its appearance, and there’s smart home integration and online music service too
The fun for everyone doesn’t stop there. Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) makes its way into the C-Class for the first time, and the second-generation iteration has an improved “Hey Mercedes” voice control system, which is now more interactive and capable of learning by activating online services in the Mercedes me App.
The system also has smart home integration, which allows users to remotely monitor and control temperature and lights, shutters and electrical appliances in smart homes. At point of launch, the MBUX smart home function will support devices offered by smart home providers such as Bosch Smart Home and Samsung SmartThings, with other names set to follow.
There’s also an Online Music service, which fully integrates major music streaming services into the MBUX infotainment system, and an over-the-air (OTA) update feature ensures that the system’s software is always kept up-to-date.
The dazzle and tech isn’t the only thing that the company is shouting up – there’s also more interior space in the W206. These include up to 35 mm more knee room and an additional 13 mm headroom in the rear, and elbow-room has also gone up by 22 mm in the front and 15 mm in the rear over the W205. Luggage capacity in the sedan remains as it was in the old car, at 455 litres.
Only four-cylinder engines across the petrol and diesel range, all mild hybrids
Under the hood, the C makes the switch to a full four-cylinder engine lineup, and this will include AMG models. At point of introduction, the W206 will be available in a variety of petrol and diesel versions, all equipped with EQ Boost mild hybrid tech in the form of a 48-volt electrical system and an integrated starter-generator (ISG), which provides intelligent assistance at low engine speeds.
Petrol variants are the C 180, C 200, C 200 4Matic, C 300 and C 300 4Matic, while two oil burners are available, these being the C 220 d and C 300 d. The C 180, C 200 and C 200 4Matic run with a 1.5 litre turbo, with outputs ranging from 168 hp/250 Nm on the C 180 to 201 hp/300 Nm on both C 200 models.
As for the two C 300 variants, they are equipped with the automaker’s new M254 2.0 litre turbo mill, which offers 255 hp and 400 Nm in this application. As standard, all C-Class models will have an automatic transmission, in this case a 9G-Tronic nine-speed unit, which integrates the ISG into its workings.
Meanwhile, diesel variants will feature the automaker’s OM 654 M 2.0 litre oil burner in different output tunes. Variants include the C 220 d, which has 197 hp and 440 Nm, and the C 300 d, which bumps output up to 261 hp and 550 Nm.
Upcoming plug-in hybrid to feature an all-electric range of 100 km
The debut of the new C-Class also mentioned the upcoming appearance of the plug-in hybrid variant, which will be available in both body-styles. While not formally detailed as yet, initial specifications of the C 300 e PHEV have been offered – working with a 2.0 litre M254 mill, the variant will have an electric output of 127 hp (95 kW)129 hp) and 440 Nm of peak torque, the latter available right from the start.
Equipped with a 25.4 kWh battery with 96 cells in a so-called pouch configuration and internal cooling, the PHEV will offer an all-electric range of around 100 km (on a WLTP cycle), which is triple that of the previous-gen C 350 e, which had a 6.2 kWh battery, and double the 50 km electric range of the W205 C 300 e, which upped the battery to a 13.5 kWh unit. On the W206 hybrid, the full electric power is available up to 140 km/h, at which point the automaker says it is softly capped.
A standard-fit 11 kW charger is available for three-phase charging at a Wallbox connected to the domestic AC mains, while an optional 55 kW DC charging will juice up the battery from zero to full in around 30 mins. Also, the new battery, developed in-house by Mercedes, has a more compact footprint, eliminating the step in the boot seen previously and ensuring the luggage compartment floor is now level.
Rear-wheel steering goes on, 4Matic gets improvements
Elsewhere, the 4Matic system in all-wheel drive models has also been reworked and is now lighter than before. Changes include a new front-axle drive, which allows higher torque levels to be transferred with an ideal axle load distribution for improved driving dynamics, as well as a new transfer case with less friction losses.
Other technical highlights include rear-axle steering and an accompanying, more direct steering ratio at the front axle. The system adds a 2.5 degree steering angle at the rear axle to reduce the turning circle of the car by 43 cm, to 10.64 metres.
At speeds below 60 km/h, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels, and by up to 2.5 degrees opposite to the front-axle angle during parking. This virtually shortens the wheelbase, making the vehicle more manoeuvrable as a result.
Meanwhile, at speeds above 60 km/h, the rear wheels then steer up to 2.5 degrees in the same direction as the front wheels. This virtual increase in the wheelbase provides improved handling stability and safety at high speeds, during fast lane-changes or sudden evasive manoeuvres.
The system also needs fewer turns of the steering wheel for full lock. With rear-axle steering, and depending on the drive concept, this requires 2.1 turns instead of 2.35 turns (rear-wheel drive with comfort steering) or 2.3 turns (on 4Matic versions with comfort steering).
New suspension, enhancements to driving assistance systems
Elsewhere, a new, dynamically-configured suspension featuring a new four-link axle at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear mounted to a sub-frame makes its way on to the W206, and this provides the basis for a high level of suspension, ride and noise comfort, while offering agile handling and driving dynamics, says the automaker.
The car is also available with a continuously adjustable damping setup as well as a sport suspension. Airmatic has been ditched as a complete offering (the automaker says that the system was dropped on the new car due to a lack of demand from buyers previously), but air suspension will still feature at the rear on both the sedan and estate versions of the plug-in hybrid.
As is to be expected, the C-Class is packed with a plethora of safety and driving assistance systems, and items in the kitbag include Active Distance Assist Distronic, which now increases the operating speed in response to stationary vehicles on the road to up to 100 km/h from 60 km/h previously.
The Active Steering Assist, which helps the driver to stay in lane at speeds up to 210 km/h, now comes with additional lane recognition with the 360-degree camera to provide better performance in bends and improved lane centring on highways. Elsewhere, the Traffic Sign Assist system adds stop sign and red light warning functions as part of the Driving Assistance Package.
Other mod cons include Energising Comfort, which creates a matching atmosphere in the interior, as well as the familiar Air Balance package, which provides an individual fragrance in the interior in line with personal preference and mood.
So, what do you think of the new W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class? Do you like the shape, and what do you think of the interior and all that glossy tech? Share your views with us in the comments section.
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse T-Modell, 2021, Spektralblau, Leder zweifarbig Nevagrau/Schwarz und Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, 2021, spectral blue, neva grey/black leather, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse T-Modell, 2021, Spektralblau, Leder zweifarbig Nevagrau/Schwarz und Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, 2021, spectral blue, neva grey/black leather, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse T-Modell, 2021, Spektralblau, Leder zweifarbig Nevagrau/Schwarz und Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, 2021, spectral blue, neva grey/black leather, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
GALLERY: W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur // Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse, 2021, Selenitgrau magno, Leder zweifarbig Sienabraun/Schwarz. Interieur
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, 2021, selenite grey magno, siena brown/black leather. Interior
