Mercedes-Benz has launched the mid-life facelift for its C-class sedan, with prices ranging between Rs 40.00 lakh and Rs 48.50 lakh depending on the engine and variant. The C 220d Prime is the base trim, the C 220d Progressive costs Rs 44.25 lakh, while the C 300d comes only in the top-spec AMG Line trim. 

While there isn’t all that much to differentiate the refreshed C-class from the pre-facelift model on the outside, a close look reveals the addition of LED headlamps and tail-lamps, a few design tweaks to the front and rear bumpers and new alloy wheels. There's also a new silver paint shade on offer.

The cabin of the C-class facelift has been updated with a new-design steering wheel, which gets the dual touchpad control system available on the E-class and S-class facelift. There’s also a 12.3-inch digital instrument console and a 10.25-inch high-resolution screen for the COMAND infotainment system. Active parking assist is also on offer with the top-spec AMG Line variant.

The BS-VI-compliant 2.0-litre diesel engine under the bonnet of the C-class will be shared with the soon-to-arrive E-class All-Terrain, though the sedan will have it in two states of tune – 194hp/400Nm in the C 220d and 245hp/500Nm in the C 300d. The engine is mated to a 9-speed torque convertor automatic transmission that powers the rear wheels.

Michael Jopp, vice-president, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India said: “Introduction of fascinating products and their continuous honing has been key to our success and with the launch of the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz yet again set a very high benchmark in the luxury sedan segment. This model update is the biggest in the history of the C-Class. In total, we have changed some 6,500 components, more than half the number of components in an average C-Class sedan. The C-Class we launched today is the sportiest and most dynamic of all time and is loaded with a variety of technologies and features that enhance driving pleasure, and offer unmatched luxury. We are confident that these enhancements will add a dash of athleticism and uniqueness to one of the most popular models in Mercedes-Benz’s rich product portfolio.”

“Selling over 30,500 units since its inception in India, the C-Class has been one of the best-selling luxury sedans for the Indian market and remains a key contributor to our continued success in the market. With a young and attractive product portfolio, a qualitative network that is expanding and remains a benchmark of luxury experience, a delightful customer service and carefully curated innovative brand outreach programmes; we are glad to be the most preferred choice for a luxury car buyer today. We are glad that our customer centric strategy for India is on the right track and paying results,” added Jopp.

The new C 220d's base price is nearly Rs 300,000 less than the outgoing model (Rs 42.94-43.54 lakh), while the top-spec C 300d is about Rs 300,000 dearer than the outgoing C 250d, which had a price tag of Rs 45.41-46.87 lakh.

The Mercedes-Benz C-class rivals the likes of the BMW 3-series (Rs 39.80-47.30 lakh), Volvo S60 (Rs 38.51-40.78 lakh) and the Audi A4 (Rs 41.47-46.94 lakh) in the Indian market.

All prices, ex-showroom, India