New Merc C-Class revealed

The C-Class has traditionally been the baby of the Mercedes-Benz lineup but not anymore. The small boy has grown up and has bigger boots to fill in. The 2015 model certainly looks grown up and it is evident that the styling is borrowed from its big brother - the E-Class.

The new C-Class gets a 3-inch longer wheelbase. Despite the growth that seems like an inevitable part of every redesign, Mercedes has managed to shed some weight and this will reflect in the overall performance and the fuel efficiency it will eventually attain.

The engine range at launch internationally includes a 168bhp 2.1-litre turbodiesel in the C220 Bluetec, a 154bhp 1.6 petrol in the C180 and a 181bhp 2.0-litre petrol in the C200.

Another option will include a new 1.6-litre turbodiesel mill co-developed with Renault. Other variants of the familiar OM651 2.1-litre turbodiesel will also follow, with power outputs ranging from 113bhp to 201bhp.

The new C-Class is also the first car in its class to be offered with air suspension, Mercedes says. The Airmatic system features four modes - Comfort, Eco, Sport, Sport+ and a customizable Individual mode.

Mercedes has tried to create the same sporty look as the exterior, inside the car as well. The list includes a head-up display (HUD), Mercedes' "Comand" infotainment system, and an air conditioning system that uses GPS data.

Safety features galore in the new C-Class where driver aids include: Attention Assist, Adaptive Brake Assist, Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Distronic Plus with Steering Assist, Brake Assist System Plus and Enhanced Active Lane Keeping Assist, as well as Active Park Assist, a 360-degree camera and Traffic Sign Assist with Wrong-Way Alert.

If all of those systems fail, there's also a bevy of airbags, including pelvis bags for front-seat occupants and a new window bag.

Mercedes has not yet let on as to when the new C-Class will be launched but we think we will see the car at the Detroit Motorshow in January. More details, as and when we get them. So stay tuned!