A serious challenger

Mercedes-Benz's new aggressive-looking C200 is a worthy rival for the BMW 3-Series

Published on October 31, 2007

The new C-Class is larger than its predecessor and looks more masculine. The large Mercedes-Benz badge in front adds to its character.

Finally, the BMW 3-Series has something to fear: the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Introduced by grey-market importers several months ago, the authorised version was finally launched last month, also as fully imported units. The locally assembled version is due out early next year.

The model offered by distributor DaimlerChrysler Thailand is the C200 Kompressor, priced at a hefty Bt3.99 million in sporty Avantgarde trim, with 17-inch wheels with low-profile tyres.

The sticker price is considerably higher than the outgoing C-Class. In fact, the new car is even more expensive than the larger E200 Kompressor, which is locally assembled.

But then, you must also consider that the new C200K is imported, which means there's a considerable duty to be paid, and that in terms of new technologies, this car is really the cheese on the cracker.

Let's start off with design. As you can see, the new C-Class has evolved into a more aggressive-looking car, totally shedding its predecessor's soft, sensuous looks. The front grille is vertical, giving the front a bold look, although a little like a utility vehicle, while the rest of the car is even higher, with the body line moving up towards the rear to create a crouching stance. Those large turn signals at the back look a bit odd, but I'm sure we'll get used to it in time.

At 4,581 millimetres, the new C-Class is 55mm longer than its predecessor. Body width has been increased 42mm, to 1,770mm, and the wheelbase 45mm, to 2,760mm. Mercedes-Benz has decided to make the body longer and larger to increase passenger space, which is the easiest solution. If you want a bigger cabin, make a bigger car (probably another reason for the higher price).

The engine, still based on the same 1.8-litre supercharged four-cylinder block, has been improved and now pumps out 184 horsepower, compared with 163hp before, while torque is 250Nm from 2,800rpm right up to 5,000rpm.

The wide torque band makes the new C200K an easy car to drive. Just squeeze the throttle, and the speed picks up pretty well. The extra horsepower also does wonders for performance, with 0-100kph coming in 8.8 seconds and a top speed of 230kph.

There's a certain element of fun and excitement in the way the engine sounds, especially compared with the old model. In short, there is more life from this engine, although the supercharger whine is more reminiscent of a jet engine than a sports car.

The transmission is a five-speed automatic with a manual shift mode. But to shift up and down in manual mode, you need to move the lever right and left rather than the normal backwards and forwards as with other manufacturers, so it's still a little strange for new users.

Meanwhile, average fuel consumption is 6.4-6.5 litres per 100km, but you'll need to be quite light-footed to achieve that figure.

The suspension features "Agility Control", comprised of an adaptive damping system that is softer under normal driving and stiffens up when sporty driving is detected. The steering is also 6 per cent more direct, although its weight is simply too light even at high speeds. You won't get that sporty steering and suspension feel of the 3-Series - the new C-Class is still a comfort-oriented everyday car here.

The ABS brakes are also adaptive and feature brake-assist and brake-drying functions.

Compared with grey imports, this C200K is fully loaded.

The Linguatronic voice-control system, available in English only, operates the radio, CD/DVD player, CD/DVD changer and telephone.

The Comand control and display system is standard, as are bi-xenon headlights with an Intelligent Light System that offers five lighting functions for various driving and weather conditions.

Cornering lights illuminate the extreme corners of the road for better safety when driving past intersections or driving slowly on tight bends.

There's also an Electronic Stability Programme and cruise control with Speedtronic variable speed limiter, which may not be of much help when the car is driven on roads here.

The interior design is modern and the cabin spacious, but you must bear in mind that this is a compact car with a 1.8-litre engine.

The entertainment system is wonderful. Along with the usual audio CD and radio, it plays MP3 discs, as well as VCDs and DVDs.

Once a disc is inserted or the radio turned on, a small screen pops up from the top of the centre console. Apart from the voice control, you can also control the player via the Comand controller.

Air-conditioning is fully automatic, with a separate system for rear passengers to set their own fan speed and temperature.

Safety-wise, the car comes with two dual-stage air bags in front and side air bags and window bags. The Pre-Safe system, similar to the larger S-Class, also prepares the vehicle for a crash by such means as tightening seat belts, closing windows or adjusting seat positions.

All of the equipment you need is here, and this is probably the reason why Mercedes-Benz marketing is confident it can sell the C-Class for up to Bt4 million.

Although the locally assembled version will be available soon, history tells us you won't be seeing much difference. So if you like the C-Class, just go ahead and get the imported version. After all, it's made in Germany.

Specifications:

Mercedes-Benz C200k

Engine: Four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve

Displacement: 1,796cm

Compression ratio: 8.5:1

Bore and stroke: 82 x 85mm

Max power: 184hp/5,500rpm

Max torque: 250Nm/2,800-5,000rpm

Transmission: Five-speed automatic

Ratios: 3.95/2.42/1.49/1.00/0.83

Final-drive ratio: 3.07

Performance