2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Preview

Written By: MyRide.com
Reprinted under license.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class struts a new body, new interior and more equipment
What it Is

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Preview - 2007 Geneva Auto Show: The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class represents the latest version of the automaker's entry-level model. The C-Class competes directly with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS and Cadillac CTS. Debuting in the mid 1990s, the C-Class was a response to BMW's popular 3 Series and has sported coupe, sedan and wagon bodies. The second generation car helped modernize the company's styling language when it was introduced in the beginning of the decade. This third generation will be available this summer in the United States in three distinct models: the C300 Sport Sedan, C300 Luxury Sedan and C350 Sport Sedan, with an all-wheel-drive option coming in the fall.

Why it Matters

The C-Class is Mercedes' best seller, with 1.4 million cars sold worldwide since 2000. Getting the 2008 C-Class right is vitally important. Although the premium models such as the S-Class and E-Class showcase the latest technologies and newest engineering, it's the entry-level C-Class that generates the most showroom traffic thanks to its lower - but still profitable - sticker price. Despite recent buzz in the automotive industry about economizing, the newer "B" class subcompacts, and green technology, premium carmakers like Mercedes-Benz are still seeing sales growth. To maintain that momentum, the C-Class must upstage other manufacturers' offerings.

What's Under the Hood

Mercedes offers 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class customers a choice of two V6 engines. The C300 will get a 3.0-liter V6, while C350s will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6. Output in the U.S. marketplace has not been announced, but European models displacing the same volume yield 231 and 272 horsepower, respectively. A seven-speed automatic transmission backs the C350 Sport and C300 Luxury as standard, and is optional on C300 Sport models. Adaptive suspension called Direct Control varies damping to favor comfort or handling, and all-wheel-drive arrives as an option this fall. Twin-spoke rims measure 17 inches in diameter, but Sport sedans get exclusive 18-inch wheels and tires.



About Sue Mead
Sue Mead works as a photojournalist and features writer for more than two dozen publications. She has written for Parade, Popular Science, Open Road, the Road & Track Buyers Guide, Men's Journal, Popular Mechanics and Diversion and she has worked as an auto editor for CNN/fn. Sue has co-driven in two of the world's toughest off-road races, the Baja 1000 and the Paris-Dakar Raid. She attended four Camel Trophy adventures for Land Rover North America and has participated in several long-distance adventure drives. She recently completed her first book, "Monster Trucks and Tractors" published by Chelsea House. Sue lives in New England.

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