Curvy New C-Class On Way

Mercedes has been out testing its all-new C-Class, but the engineers are fooling no one. Information from within the firm has been used to generate a picture of how the car will look in this week's magazine.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Matt Joy

02nd March 2005

The dramatic styling will be accompanied by a wide range of modern engines and sophisticated technology. But the main feature is the strong curve down the flanks, leading from the low bonnet line to a high bootlid. This is a toned-down variation of the CLS four-door's design. The new car is built around the underpinnings of the latest SLK, so the rigid chassis should give an impressive mix of ride and handling, while raising the C-Class's status as a sporting saloon.

Under the bonnet, petrol options are set to include the 3.5-litre V6 from the current model, which will also be developed into a larger-capacity V8. There'll be a 3.2-litre CDI diesel, too.

The interior will be influenced by the new M-Class, with an uncluttered centre console housing all the major controls. Passenger comfort receives a boost, thanks to increased head and legroom. An estate version will join the saloon when it makes its debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Meanwhile, Mercedes has also confirmed it will axe the slow-selling Vaneo at the end of the year. Only 2,300 of the quirky MPVs have found UK homes since its launch in 2002. A company spokesman told us: "We have a huge range, and with the new A-Class and the B-Class on show at Geneva, the Vaneo has reached the end of its life."

For an alternative review of the latest Mercedes C-Class visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk