Design Emphasizing Sportiness

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, despite being a minor change, has arrived in Japan with significant updates.

The exterior has been redesigned with new front and rear bumpers to enhance its dynamic and sporty appearance. Two types of headlights are available; one is the LED High Performance Headlight, which features multi-chamber reflectors arranged in four rows, top and bottom, within the light housing, creating a futuristic look.

Furthermore, the MULTIBEAM LED headlights, adopted from higher-end models, use 84 individually controlled LEDs per side to illuminate a wide area without dazzling drivers of preceding or oncoming vehicles. Additionally, an Ultra High Beam, capable of illuminating up to 650 meters ahead, has been newly equipped.

A new characteristic for the sedan is the redesigned taillights, featuring a C-shaped motif.



The AMG Line exterior now features a diamond grille. It also includes air curtains on the sides of the front bumper, as seen in models like the "CLS."

The interior retains its sporty concept while incorporating a high-definition 10.25-inch wide display at the center of the dashboard. Additionally, a similarly high-definition 12.3-inch display, functioning as the instrument cluster, can show information such as the speedometer, tachometer, navigation, and driver assistance systems, with three selectable designs: Classic, Sport, and Progressive.

The steering wheel is also the latest generation from Mercedes-Benz, emphasizing both premium quality and sportiness.

Gasoline Engines with EQ Boost Now Available

Among the engines introduced in Japan, notable are the M264, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, and the OM654 for the diesel models.

The M264 engine is a powertrain that achieves enhanced efficiency, comfort, and performance through new technologies such as the BSG (Belt-driven Starter Generator) and a 48V electrical system. The engine alone produces a maximum output of 184 ps and a peak torque of 280 Nm. It features the "CONICSHAPE" process, a patented Mercedes technology, where the cylinder walls are shaped to widen slightly towards the bottom during the honing process, reducing friction in the piston skirt area.

The BSG, which serves as both a starter and generator connected to the crankshaft via a belt, along with the 48V electrical system and EQ Boost system, stores 48V electricity generated through regenerative braking in a 1 kWh lithium-ion battery. When needed, it provides supplementary power with a maximum output of 14 ps and a peak torque of 160 Nm.



This system not only improves fuel economy through regenerative braking but also assists acceleration by providing boost until the turbocharger reaches sufficient pressure, contributing to smooth acceleration. Furthermore, the motor is utilized during gear shifts to minimize the time it takes for the engine to reach its optimal RPM, resulting in shorter, smoother gear changes with less lag.

Additionally, the water pump is now electric, allowing for optimal adjustment of cooling capacity as needed. This enables coasting with the engine off, as well as quieter and smoother engine starts.

The OM654 is a 2.0-liter inline-four BlueTEC engine, also found in the "E-Class," producing a maximum output of 194 ps and a peak torque of 400 Nm. While offering higher output than previous clean diesel engines, it also features reduced vibration and noise. Efficiency is improved by using materials with different thermal expansion rates for the cylinder block and pistons, and by applying the NANOSLIDE surface coating to reduce friction. Furthermore, efforts to purify exhaust emissions include shortening the exhaust gas purification path and adopting an sDPF (DPF with SCR Coating), meeting the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems on Par with the S-Class

Regarding the driver assistance systems, Christian Früh, Chief Engineer for the C-Class who traveled from the German headquarters for this announcement, stated, "We have significantly improved the camera and radar systems." The camera now offers a forward visibility range of up to 500 meters and a stereoscopic vision range of 90 meters. The radar sensors detect up to 250 meters ahead, 40 meters to the sides, and 80 meters behind. "This allows for partial autonomous driving in an even wider range of situations, enabling us to respond to more diverse scenarios, such as pedestrians or cyclists suddenly appearing," he explained.

He highlighted the "improved Active Steering Assist with intuitive Active Lane Change Assist," noting that "on highways, if the driver activates the turn signal, the system can automatically change lanes after confirming it is safe. The Driver Assistance Package also includes the improved Active Emergency Stop Assist. If the system determines that the driver is not making conscious driving inputs while Active Steering Assist is engaged, it will decelerate the vehicle and bring it to a stop." He emphasized the significant improvement in safety, stating, "Both of these are advanced driver assistance systems on par with the S-Class."

Collaboration with Kabuki: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

The press conference for the new C-Class was held at the Shinbashi Enbujo theater in Ginza, Tokyo, in collaboration with Kabuki.

Kintaro Ueno, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Japan, explained the reason: "The answer lies in 'tradition and innovation.' Our parent company, Daimler, invented the automobile 132 years ago. While preserving the tradition cultivated over this long history, we have continuously challenged ourselves with various innovations. The new C-Class embodies the spirit of 'Never Stop Improving,' evolving while honoring its heritage. Therefore, it was essential to experience both tradition and innovation when launching it in Japan. Kabuki is a traditional Japanese performing art that Japan is proud of, yet it constantly pursues novelty. Shinbashi Enbujo, in particular, is a theater that fosters innovation in Kabuki, being the birthplace of Super Kabuki. It is the most fitting venue for the launch of the new C-Class."

Kabuki actor Ukon Onoe appeared as a special guest, performing the Kabuki dance "Shakkyo" (The Stone Bridge). He portrayed the vibrant and dynamic lion spirit with its magnificent mane.

Regarding his connection with Mercedes, Onoe commented, "My mother, father, and grandmother all drove Mercedes, and my master, Kikugoro Onoe, also drives a Mercedes. Many in the Kabuki world drive Mercedes. Since childhood, Mercedes-Benz was the only car I knew. As an adult, I wanted a Mercedes but never had the chance to get my license. So, first, I need to get my license, and with this opportunity, I definitely want to buy a Mercedes."

He also shared his thoughts on "Shakkyo": "This time, Kikunojo Onoe choreographed it. The theme of the new C-Class is tradition and innovation. I performed 'Shakkyo' with the consciousness of embodying the contemporary spirit while incorporating existing and new forms, and a fresh atmosphere, reflecting the era I live in. I poured my feelings into this dance, keeping in mind the theme of tradition and innovation. Although I am still inexperienced, I have a strong desire to make my mark on the world as an actor. Having been given this opportunity with Mercedes, a brand with such tradition, I danced with the intention of making it a stepping stone for my future."