Prices Cut For Slicker C-Class

Better looking, better value and better to drive - according to Mercedes, that's the result of the revisions it has made to the C-Class.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Mat Watson

10th February 2004

The compact executive model has been given a mid-life facelift, plus there are improvements to the chassis. And for the first time ever, a V8 has been added to the line-up. What's more, with prices starting at around ΂£18,000, the entry-level car will be ΂£1,000 cheaper.

As you can see from these first official pictures, updates to the body are subtle. A new front bumper with prominent air intake, redesigned radiator grille and clear lens headlamps give the car a sportier look. This is enhanced by a track that's 12mm wider which, along with improved steering and fatter tyres, should help boost the C's ride, high-speed stability and handling.

Cabin updates include the use of chrome on the dash, while the instrument binnacle gets four chronometer-style dials with white lighting. The seats have been revised and the sporty three-spoke steering wheel, with silver control buttons, is new. Both saloon and estate will be offered with the Sports Coup΃©'s 192bhp 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine.

Meanwhile, the 220 CDI diesel, which complies with Euro IV emissions laws, has been upped by 7bhp to 150bhp. And keen drivers will be glad to hear that manual cars will get the SLK's new gearbox, which uses rod rather than cable linkages to offer precise changes.

The V8 engine is the 367bhp 5.5-litre from the CLK, and it will appear in the AMG version of the C-Class. It promises a 0-60mph sprint time of 5.2 seconds. Estate and Sports Coup΃© versions will arrive in showrooms in May, with the four-door following in July.