The more things change, the more they stay the same. Mercedes’ new C-Class made its appearance during the messy demise of COVID-19 so we never got a proper look at what’s changed…
You should know: The first thing we should all agree on is that Mercedes-Benz played it fairly safe with the exterior design of their popular compact sedan. It follows current in-house trends but happily shies away from the aggressive bulges and ridiculously large air scoops so favoured by its sporty SUV cousins.
It looks understated and elegant, like a proper Mercedes should.
More info: Speaking of which, the C-Class has always copied styling cues from its big S-Class relative; and that is something else that hasn’t changed. Especially on the inside of this newcomer you will find the large screen, slanted dash, digital gauges and a steering wheel with more buttons than a Casio calculator.
Why you shouldn’t: If you struggle with your Netflix password or don’t know what a 2FA is, step away from the new C-Class. After exploring its command centre as best I could, it’s evident that Mercedes tried their best to simplify a few avalanches of technology… but… but… even I had to pull over twice to find a fairly simple radio or sound setting.
Why you should: Those of you who love gadgets, secretly crave a Tesla and adore the convenience of 2FA’s, you will absolutely love this new Baby Benz. On top of that, being a mini-S-Class, this car doesn’t just drive. It glides. Of course there are other, sportier drive settings but even with these enormous Edition 6 (AMG Line) wheels, the ride is exceptional.
What else? This C200 is the entry-level model yet sports a mild-hybrid 1.5L turbo-petrol, so its 165kW or 300Nm are plenty for the nine-speed automatic gearbox to work with. Our best 0-100 time was… umm, no idea, actually. I couldn’t locate the now-archaic 12V socket for our Racelogic Box… which is apparently hidden in the passenger foot well.
FULL SPEC LIST
| Engine: | 1.5L i-4 Turbo-petrol |
| Transmission: | 9-speed Automatic, RWD |
| Max. Power: | 150kW (165e-kW) |
| Max. Torque: | 300Nm |
| Avg. cons.: | Claimed 6.8L/100km |
| 0-100km/h: | Claimed 7.3 seconds |
| Top Speed: | Claimed 246km/h |
| List Price: | From R900,000 |
i love this colour and such a great new model from Mercedes!