[Taboleo] The Same Gene... New C-Class Adds More Comfort

Test Drive of Mercedes-Benz 6th Generation New C-Class
Longer Wheelbase and More Knee Room
Digital Light with Brightness Adjustment According to Environment
Technology Applied from Highly Praised New S-Class
11.9-Inch High-Resolution LCD Display

Front grille of the new Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line. Compared to the C200, it emphasizes a dynamic feel in various areas.

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] The completely redesigned new Mercedes-Benz C-Class mid-size sedan was recently launched in South Korea. This new C-Class is the 6th generation model, unveiled early last year after seven years since 2014. The C-Class, originating from the 190 model released in 1982, is a best-selling car with over 10 million units sold worldwide. The name "C-Class" began to be used from 1993 when the successor to the 190 model was introduced.

If the flagship S-Class symbolizes Mercedes-Benz, the C-Class is a model that aspires to be the "older brother" to the S-Class. Although the size differs, it fully embodies the vehicle's performance and advanced technology. When the 190 was first introduced in the U.S., it was called the "Baby Benz" for this reason. The D-segment, to which the C-Class belongs, is highly competitive among major manufacturers overseas, especially in Europe. It is considered a volume model that reveals the brand's identity while also supporting the company's business. From the end of last month, the C200 4MATIC Avantgarde (hereafter C200) and C300 AMG Line (hereafter C300) have also been delivered to customers in South Korea, and I had the chance to test drive them.

- What has changed?

△ First, it has grown larger. The wheelbase (distance between front and rear axles), which affects the interior space, has increased by about 25mm compared to the previous model. Additionally, the front seats are thinner, providing more knee room for rear passengers. The overall exterior silhouette follows the new S-Class design. The front of the vehicle is shortened, and the hood features contours that give a dynamic impression.

The C300 comes standard with Digital Light, the smart headlamp first applied to the new S-Class. The brightness adjusts according to road, traffic, and weather conditions, also considering surrounding drivers. The lamp's light can create various effects, but due to local regulations in South Korea, it is difficult to utilize 100% of its functions.

Mercedes-Benz New C200 Avantgarde

The interior has changed significantly. It incorporates many technologies that debuted and received praise in the new S-Class. The high-resolution LCD display between the driver and passenger seats measures 11.9 inches and is vertically oriented for better visibility. The infotainment system uses the 2nd generation MBUX, which is intuitive and easy to operate even for first-time users. The driver's instrument cluster is a 12.3-inch widescreen that allows various modes to suit preferences. Overall, the number of physical buttons has been greatly reduced, giving a cleaner impression. Mercedes-Benz pays special attention to the interior air vents, and this new model features a design reminiscent of aircraft engine covers.

- How is the driving performance?

△ It is equipped with a 2nd generation mild hybrid engine. The C200 has all-wheel drive, while the C300 is rear-wheel drive. Both cars feature a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an integrated starter generator (ISG) that adds 20 horsepower. This is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Compared to typical hybrids, the motor's role is smaller, but it effectively assists when power is needed, such as during starts, improving fuel efficiency.

The driving experience reflects the Mercedes-Benz brand identity well. The company’s main marketing point for this new model is "comfort." Although this segment usually emphasizes driving performance, Mercedes-Benz shows its commitment to enabling comfortable driving. The response is not immediate upon pressing the accelerator, but once power builds, the car accelerates smoothly. Compared to the previous 5th generation model, the engine feels somewhat quieter. The C200 focuses more on stability, while the C300 has been tuned with more attention to sportiness.

Mercedes-Benz New C300 AMG Line Interior

2nd Generation Mild Hybrid Engine Applied
Basic Safety Technologies Including Lane Departure Prevention
Ultra-Fine Dust Blocking Air Purification Package Also Included
'C300' Priced at 68 Million KRW... Price Increase Burden

- Cars these days are said to be smarter. Is this car also like that?

△ The safety features that assist safe driving are also practical. The package includes functions such as maintaining distance from the car ahead with automatic speed control and braking, lane departure prevention, lane change assist, and Pre-Safe, which detects accident risks and reduces occupant damage. These are all standard features.

Even while driving, the car itself recognizes the size and distance of surrounding vehicles. This means it is always prepared to respond quickly in any situation. Typically, cars recognize one vehicle in each direction around them, but this car monitors up to two vehicles ahead. It also accurately detects the car’s position by measuring lane spacing, demonstrating a high level of capability.

New C-Class instrument cluster. It accurately recognizes and displays the distance and size of surrounding vehicles while driving.

The around-view camera applied to the C300 shows the vehicle’s surroundings, taking into account uneven surfaces. The head-up display is large and presents various information. The navigation system, which uses augmented reality technology, may feel somewhat unfamiliar at first but quickly becomes intuitive. Additionally, the air purification package monitors ultra-fine dust levels inside and outside the vehicle to maintain a comfortable environment. The smartphone integration package supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto, and features like an electric trunk are included as standard, reflecting advanced functions preferred by Korean consumers.

- The price is somewhat burdensome. How many units are planned for domestic introduction this year?

△ The C200 is priced at 61.5 million KRW, and the C300 at 68 million KRW. Although it is difficult to compare directly with the same class and specifications, considering that the previous C-Class started below 50 million KRW, the perceived price increase is significant. The cheapest model among the E-Class domestic releases, which is one class above, is 67 million KRW (E250 Avantgarde). However, if the trim and performance are matched similarly, the new C-Class is only about 3 million KRW more expensive than the old model.

The exact number of units to be introduced domestically has not been finalized, but the company expects about 3,000 to 4,000 units by the end of the year. Of course, the German factory is not free from production disruptions due to semiconductor and parts supply shortages, and logistics issues show no signs of easing, so the situation cannot be viewed optimistically. However, Korea holds a high status within Mercedes-Benz’s global sales network, and the headquarters is reportedly paying special attention to the market.