When C-Class was introduced to the world in the mid-1990s, replacing the nameplate 190, its purpose was clear: to be a stylish, trendy, and affordable step-up into Mercedes-Benz ownership for the generation of young, upwardly mobile executives of the era amongst whom it immediately found a following.
That it achieved that ambition is reflected to this day in its global sales performance, becoming a world-wide hit now firmly established as a top-selling model in its category and within the Mercedes-Benz passenger car portfolio.
True to its original purpose, the all-new, all-electric C-Class, now available to be seen in dealer showrooms, presents motorists with an offering that their National Sales Manager in Ireland, Patrick Howlett says ‘is incredibly important to us in the Irish market’. “To now have an all-new, fully electric version with class-leading technology is hugely exciting for our customers, our dealers and for Mercedes-Benz in Ireland.”
Arriving in the wake of the recently-introduced S-Class, many of whose features it embodies, an especially noteworthy aspect is its shared use of new Mercedes-Benz ‘design architecture’ that the manufacturer promises will be a characteristic of all future models.
Alongside its star-designed LED headlights, the fusion of light emitted from its fascia, sufficient to bathe the road in night-time conditions, is pitched as a major safety-enhancing feature – to its drivers and other roads users.
Described by Mercedes-Benz as ‘the sportiest C-Class ever’, it comes with an impressive driving range and long-distance driver and passenger comfort.
Combining to make these outcomes possible is its striking, aerodynamic body with streamlined front and rear aprons, coupé-like silhouette, flush-fitting wheels, rounded GT rear with star-design taillights, and an abundance of first-rate tech.
Stating that a miniscule (0.01) reduction in drag can increase range on long journeys by around 2.5 percent, Mercedes-Benz points to what it terms its ‘excellent’ aerodynamic properties. This, they add, is reflected in a CD factor starting at 0.22, and in its 762km (WLTP) range with up to 325km recharge capability in just 10 minutes.
Models available here initially are a C300 4MATIC (360Kw / 489 HP) priced from €71,110 and a range-topping C400 4MATIC from €74,070. Following in 2027 will be the introduction of more variants.
With a longer wheelbase and more spacious interior, additional features of the new electric C-Class include air suspension, rear axle steering and the resulting benefit of a reduced turning circle.
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Enhancing its high-quality interior ‘feel’ is an orchestrated ‘welcome-home’ feature and internal ambiance designed for comfort with vegan leather upholstery, electric adjustable seating with lumbar support and massage, outstanding acoustics, and climate control comfort.
Mercedes-Benz’s own Operating System, which combines all software under one control with over-the-air access to updates, supports a wide array of driver assistance functions.
Via an imposing MBUX Hyperscreen, passengers can access a full suite of infotainment and connectivity features with ‘Hey Mercedes’ support and Google Maps navigation.
Other items which add to its luxury include a panoramic roof as standard, with dimmable glass and a 162-light starry sky effect, and quality craftmanship throughout.
Setting a new benchmark in safety is an abundance of proactive assistance and driver support features.
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