Expanded Luggage Space and Improved Utility

In January,Detroit Motor Showjust announced at theMercedes-Benz "C-Class"a derivative model, the "C-Class Estate (Japanese name: Station Wagon)," has already arrived. The new C-Class sedan (W205) has a total length of 4,686mm, while the "C-Class Estate" (S205) has a slightly increased length of 4,702mm. The width of 1,810mm and wheelbase of 2,840mm remain the same.

The maximum luggage space, a key feature, has been expanded to 490 liters when all five seats are in use, a 5-liter increase over the current C-Class Station Wagon (S204). With the rear seats folded down, the maximum capacity is 1,510 liters, an increase of 10 liters.



Previously, the rear seats were split 60:40, but the new model features a more convenient 40:20:40 split-folding configuration. This allows for greater practicality, such as loading long, narrow items through the center by folding down the center seatback, even with four passengers. The seatbacks can be folded electrically with a single touch of a switch.

Furthermore, the lightweight tailgate, made with aluminum, features an Easy Pack power liftgate. With the optional hands-free access system, the tailgate can be opened and closed simply by moving your foot under the rear bumper.




Improved Rigidity and Safety with Aluminum Body Shell
It's like a miniS-Class"The stylish front face, reminiscent of a mini "S-Class," is identical to the new C-Class, but the extended roofline, additional rear quarter windows, and D-pillars are design features exclusive to the C-Class Estate. The rear combination lights adopt a rounded, horizontal LED design, creating a distinctive new look.

The exhaust pipes are integrated into the bumper, similar to the new C-Class sedan, but the rear bumper, which is wider and integrated with the body, differs from that of the new C-Class sedan.



Compared to the previous S204 model, the body has been lightened by approximately 65kg. This is thanks to the new body shell, where 49% of the body is made of aluminum. Despite the larger opening of the station wagon compared to the sedan, there is no compromise in body rigidity or collision safety. Like the sedan, it incorporates all the "Intelligent Drive" safety features, ensuring the highest level of safety in both passive and active safety aspects.

The interior, which is both sporty and elegantly finished, is largely the same as the new C-Class sedan. The display, which centrally manages the infotainment system and allows for touchpad operation like a smartphone or tablet, is available in a large 7-inch size or an optional 8.4-inch. A head-up display is also newly available.

Gasoline Plug-in Hybrid Model Also Arrives

The biggest highlight of the new C-Class Estate is its newly adopted powertrain.

The conventional units, including three types of gasoline engines covering an output range from 115kW (156hp) for the 4-cylinder to 245kW (333hp) for the V6, and 4-cylinder diesel engines covering an output range from 85kW (115hp) to 150kW (204hp), all comply with Euro 6 emission standards. All units are equipped with a start/stop system and reportedly achieve up to a 20% improvement in fuel efficiency.



In addition, two hybrid engines have been newly installed. One is a diesel hybrid engine found in the "C 300 BlueTEC HYBRID." This combines a 4-cylinder diesel engine with a compact electric motor, adding 20kW (27hp) from the motor to the engine's maximum output of 150kW (204hp). It boasts impressive fuel economy of just 3.8 liters per 100km (approximately 23.3 km/liter) according to NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) and emits only 99g/km of CO2.

The other is the "C 350 HYBRID," which combines a 4-cylinder engine with a motor. This power pack utilizes rechargeable plug-in technology. It boasts an output of 155kW (210hp) + 50kW (68hp) and is expected to be introduced to the market slightly later.

Air Body Control Suspension Also Available for Rear

Two suspension versions are available: the standard steel suspension and, for the first time in this segment for Mercedes, an air suspension system. The "AIRMATIC" air suspension offers a comfortable ride, dynamic handling, and a high level of road adherence. As befits a station wagon, it also features an all-round self-leveling system that is effective when the luggage compartment is loaded.



The new "C-Class," boasting quality, safety, and driving performance that surpasses the "best C-Class in Mercedes history" as the current W204/S204 was acclaimed, is highly regarded both domestically and internationally, with praise calling it the new benchmark for the D-segment. Following the sedan, the Estate (Station Wagon) is also expected to be introduced to Japan within the year.