Mercedes-Benz NZ announces pricing, specs of all-new C-Class

The all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class will start with two models, the C200 (above) and C300. Photos: Liz Dobson

Mercedes-Benz has announced the prices specifications for the all-new C-Class sedan, which is still an important vehicle for the brand in New Zealand.

The C-Class officially goes on sale in New Zealand at the end of February with the sedan getting a major style and engine upgrade from the outgoing model.

From launch, there will be the C200 (priced from $86,000) and the C300 (priced from $102,900). We can expect the C350e hybrid version to arrive later this year, says Mercedes-Benz NZ but don’t any AMG models until next year after the globally launch in late 2022.

While SUVs have dominated sales for Mercedes-Benz NZ for the past few year, the C-Class makes up 20 percent of sales here.

The interior of the all-new C-Class has had a major improvement with two screens.

Mercedes-Benz NZ says that the supply of the new C-Class “will be steady” but they probably can’t keep up with the demand of the product, and “won’t get a clear representation of sales” in 2022.

This is due to the ongoing chip shortage affecting all auto brands.

And any C-Class convertible and coupe fans will have to wait to see if Daimler chooses to update these vehicles. Instead, if you want one of those models, you have the outgoing models still for sale in New Zealand. These two vehicles make up 17 percent of C-Class sales.

As for the all-new C-Class, the C200 gets a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 150kW of power and 300Nm of torque, with 6l/100km for fuel economy and 0-100km/h in 7.3seconds.

The C300 gets a 2litre petrol engine (190kW/400Nm) with 7.3l/100km and takes 6.0seconds to get to 100km/h.

Both vehicles get the 48V mild-hybrid boost. 

The grille has had its diamonds replaced with the three-pointed start.

The most impactful design change is the front grille, with the diamond pattern replaced with the famous Mercedes three-point stars that have a stunning effect. 

Instead, the infotainment system takes a major upgrade, with a 12in driver’s vertical screen and an 11in portrait touchscreen in the middle of the dash. 

The looks are simplistic and stylish, making the C-Class look like a baby S-Class.

Talking about S-Class, the C gets that luxury vehicle’s latest MBUX, which is another upgrade, especially when it comes to pronouncing Te Reo.

But that’s all going to be explained when the driving impression embargo is lifted on February 28 to give our Aussie colleagues time to drive the vehicles. They really don’t like it when us Kiwis scoop them!

The C200 starts from $86,000 and has a 1.5-litre petrol engine.