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October 28, 2021
Test Drive the New Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Incredibly Powerful and Sportier Than Expected
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Test Drive the New Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class, fully redesigned and introduced to Japan in June 2021. We test drove this significantly evolved model, which features an advanced infotainment system inherited from the S-Class, refined interior and exterior, and the latest electrified powertrains.
Text by OGAWA Fumio | Photographs by Mercedes Benz Japan
While the body has grown slightly larger, its agility is remarkably nimble.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, an upper-midsize sedan whose popularity in Japan remains strong, has undergone a full model change. We finally encountered the model announced in Japan in June 2021 in mid-October. The conclusion: it's sportier than expected, and also well-equipped and comfortable. If you love sedans, you should definitely try it.
To broadly summarize the features of the new C-Class, the body has become larger, the engine more powerful and cleaner, and the equipment has been enhanced. Additionally, choosing the optional "AMG Line" allows for the installation of a rear-axle steering system.
Compared to the previous C-Class, the overall length has increased by 80mm to 4,785mm, the width by 10mm to 1,820mm, and the height by 5mm to 1,435mm. The wheelbase has extended by 25mm to 2,865mm. The front track is 1,590mm and the rear is 1,575mm, both widened by 15mm.
The model we test drove was the "Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde (AMG Line)." The engine is a newly developed 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline unit, distinct from the previous 1.5-liter engine (also used in the E-Class). Maximum output has increased from 135kW to 150kW (204ps), and peak torque from 280Nm to 300Nm. Meanwhile, fuel efficiency has improved from 12.9 km/liter to 14.5 km/liter.
The new 1,494cc engine, like its predecessor, features a mild-hybrid system. However, the key innovation is the switch from a Belt-driven Starter Generator (BSG) that drove the motor and crankshaft via a belt, to an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) utilizing a 48-volt system.
Some might consider the C-Class a rather sedate sedan. However, driving the C200 Avantgarde (AMG Line) this time was a surprise. It is incredibly, and I must emphasize, powerful.
Thanks to the ISG, acceleration from a standstill is brisk. Furthermore, it's a fine engine that revs smoothly to its upper range, and it doesn't disappoint in delivering the promised 200-plus horsepower. Acceleration is strong and continuous. The crisp engine note during acceleration further fuels the driving enthusiasm.
With the widened front and rear tracks and a quicker steering ratio than before, operating the steering wheel with its thick grip on winding roads reveals a remarkably agile performance.