New Mercedes-Benz C-Class showcased at CeBIT in Bangalore

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, model code W205, has made its Indian debut at the CeBIT show in Bangalore. The car is scheduled to be launched in India on November 25, 2014.

The CeBIT show has been held in India for the first time. The new C-Class was displayed by Mercedes-Benz India Ltd. (MBIL) and Mercedes-Benz Research & Development India (MBRDI) jointly to portray the involvement of IT in the automotive sector particularly in areas such as product development infotainment and connectivity options. Mercedes-Benz claims that the car has been equipped with next-generation telematics and IT systems.

The new C-Class uses the company's Modular Rear-drive Architecture and bears resemblance to the new S-Class. It is 95 mm longer and 40 mm wider with an 80 mm longer wheelbase than the outgoing model. Even with larger proportion, the new C-Class manages to be 100 kg lighter than the old car due to the use of more aluminium in its construction. The interiors and boot of the new C-Class are more spacious than before. The car is loaded with equipment and safety features.

The C-Class is expected to come in two variants - C200 (petrol) and C220 CDI (diesel). Initially, the company is likely to launch only the C200 petrol. This car is expected to be imported as a CBU. The C220 CDI (diesel) is expected to be introduced in the first quarter of 2015. CKD kits of the car will be imported and assembly will take place at the company's Pune plant. The new C-Class is likely to be more expensive than the current model.