5 things you need to know about the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class launches on 22 February in South Africa. This new model draws on inspiration lifted from the 190E, a model that paved the way for the Mercedes-Benz compact saloon that we know today. Here's a shortlist of some key developments that you can expect to see in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a staple of the Mercedes-Benz portfolio and remains the best-selling sedan in the entire range. For nearly 30-years, the C-Class has worked its way onto the hearts and garages of millions of people around the world. It's the blend of sporty pretensions and practicality all wrapped into an elegant package that has appealed to them. The new, fifth-generation C-Class promises to be all that and more.
Related: Everything you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Ahead of its local launch at the end of February, we thought we'd take a closer look at some of the features of this new model and see what makes it stand out from the competition and what Mercedes-Benz has done to make the W206 series C-Class a contender for the coming years.
1. More space
The new W206 series C-Class is 25 mm longer than before and this translates into more legroom for the passengers in the rear seat. They get an additional 20 mm legroom and additional headroom, despite the new C-Class being 10 mm lower than the outgoing model. The cab-backward design allows for a spacious interior while still retaining sporty proportions.
2. New interior
The interior of the new C-Class lifts a lot of its inspiration from the latest S-Class, the pioneer of Mercedes-Benz technology and innovation. The curved lines and the scalloped interior is offset by two floating screens. Mercedes-Benz has cleaned up the interior, relocating most of the switchgear to the main infotainment system screen for a clean, uncluttered look in the cabin. It's complemented by a new seat design and raft of new materials.
3. Latest MBUX infotainment system
The new C-Class is fitted with the latest generation MBUX infotainment system. It serves as the central command centre for the entire vehicle, offering seamless smartphone integration with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with wireless charging. From this large 9.5-inch screen (with an optional 11.9-inch screen also available on request) you are able to control or adjust nearly all vehicle parameters all the way from the heating and ventilation, to the ambient lighting and customisable Dynamic Drive modes.
4. Rear Axle Steering
To make the longer C-Class more manoeuvrable, Mercedes-Benz has given it rear axles steering. This sees the rear wheels turn by up to 2.5-degrees to help reduce the turning circle at low speeds and improve straight-line stability at highway speeds. It makes the new C-Class easier to park, particularly in tight areas where space is limited.
5. Mild Hybrids
Traditionally found on their six-cylinder and E-Class models, the 4-cylinder C-Class models have now been given a mild hybrid drive system that utilizes a 48-volt starter/generator to provide 15 additional kilowatts and an extra 200 Nm torque (in the C200 model). This self-charging system helps bring the average fuel consumption down and fills in the gaps in power to provide a more engaging driving experience.
