The onslaught on Mercedes news continues as the company has taken the wraps off the facelifted C-Class sedan and estate.
Set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the updated models feature the usual styling tweaks including new bumpers and revised lighting units with “clear-lined contours.”
While the styling changes are subtle, the 2019 C-Class can now be equipped with Multibeam LED headlights featuring “ultra range” high beams. Mercedes says each headlight has 84 individually controllable LEDs which quickly and precisely adjust the light to suit the current traffic situation.
The interior largely carries over but there are a handful of features which have trickled down from the S-Class. This includes an optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that has a resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels.
Drivers will also find a new steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls and an updated touchpad controller with haptic feedback. Other highlights include a “turbine-look” start/stop button, an upgraded head-up display and a newly optional 10.25-inch infotainment system. Rounding out the changes are trim / upholstery updates and an improved voice control system which responds to additional commands such as turning on the heated seats.
On the technology front, the company has equipped with the cars with the latest driver assistance systems so they can be driven semi-autonomously in certain situations. In order to achieve this, the cars have improved camera and radar systems that allow the vehicle to see 1,640 feet (500 meters) ahead. Other additions include an updated Active Steering Assist system with Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist functions.
Mercedes was coy on technical specifications but confirmed there will be new petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid variants in Europe.
In the United States, the C-Class will come with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 255 hp (190 kW) and 273 lb-ft (369 Nm) of torque. It will be paired to a familiar nine-speed automatic transmission.
The U.S. spec model will go on sale late this year and the car will come standard with LED lighting units and new 17-inch alloy wheels. Customers will also be able to select two new colors called Mojave Silver Metallic and Emerald Green Metallic.
