The all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The new 2015 C-Class, due for launch in late 2014, will introduce some of the biggest improvements in the model’s history.

First in terms of weight reduction, or what Mercedes calls ‘intelligent lightweight construction’ which seems the new C-Class lose up to 100kg over its predecessor, ending up 70kg lighter than the same design built using conventional steel.

This new structural design doesn’t come at the expense of crash safety – Mercedes say the new C-Class exceeds current safety standards, meeting its own “Best Real Life Safety” criteria which it applies to other models in the range.

Its passenger compartment is made predominantly from high and ultra-high-strength sheet steel with deformation zones in the front end and rear made from an aluminium hybrid structure. The car’s exterior skin is made entirely from aluminium, delivering light weight where it’s needed together with exemplary crash safety.

• 
• 

Much of the passive and active safety technology from the S-Class and E-Class will be available in the C-Class including a head-up display projecting essential information such as speed, speed limits, navigation instructions and messages from Distronic Plus.

AIRMATIC suspension

The new C-Class will be available with be fitted as standard with a steel springs, but for the first time in its class will also offers air suspension (AIRMATIC) on the front and rear axles. This features electronically controlled, continuous variable damping with a choice of different damper characteristics to suit each driver’s preferences.

A newly designed 4-link front axle is said to deliver good driving characteristics combined with excellent ride comfort.

Innovative new interior

The C-Class is traditionally the company’s best selling model, and this time it’s being used to introduce a whole new design language for Mercedes-Benz interiors.

Gone are the sharp square lines of the latest E-Class to be replaced with an evolution of the A-Class and newly-launched S-Class. A combination of sensual shapes and high-grade materials is being used to move the C-Class further upmarket, the controls are also said to be “synonymous with technology

such as high-end smartphones”.

Haptic feedback, which provides command recognition through varying levels of sensory vibration, is being used for an innovative new touchpad. It’s part of a prominent new centre console designed to create an inviting, open sense of space, underscored by the precise sculpted lines of the C-Class’ new interior design.

The overall feel is said to be innovative, refined and from a higher class.

Further information will be revealed over the coming months covering engines, trim levels, pricing and specifications.