Updated for 2008, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a successful model for the brand around the world. Its success is due, in part, to a wide array of body-style and powertrain configurations, but also because it offers a more affordable entry into one of the most luxurious brands around.
In the United States, the C-Class is offered with 3.0- and 3.5-litre six cylinder engines, while the unruly 6.2-litre AMG V8 expected soon. But here at the Vancouver International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz Canada is showing off another version that can be had north of the border: the 2.5-litre V6 C230 (note that the nomenclature doesn't always reflect displacement).
The C230 delivers 201 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels, or to all four as in the 4MATIC model. Somewhat rare in a Mercedes-Benz product, the two-wheel-drive C230 can be had with a six-speed manual transmission. This sportiest configuration takes more than eight seconds to reach 100 km/h. All other C230s utilize seven-speed automatic transmissions.
The most notable option on the C230 is the sport - or as I call it, 'almost AMG' - package. Included are more aggressive bumpers and side sills, larger 17-inch wheels, firmer, lower suspension settings, a revised grille, and more sporty interior trim pieces. This will attract a larger, younger audience, especially being a no-cost option.
Better value is at the core of the C230, and this will help to bridge a price cleft when comparing with U.S. C-Class models. Beyond North America though, the C-Class is offered with diesel engine options which would contribute nicely to the growing availability on our shores.
photo:Amyot Bachand
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| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C350 |
In the United States, the C-Class is offered with 3.0- and 3.5-litre six cylinder engines, while the unruly 6.2-litre AMG V8 expected soon. But here at the Vancouver International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz Canada is showing off another version that can be had north of the border: the 2.5-litre V6 C230 (note that the nomenclature doesn't always reflect displacement).
The C230 delivers 201 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels, or to all four as in the 4MATIC model. Somewhat rare in a Mercedes-Benz product, the two-wheel-drive C230 can be had with a six-speed manual transmission. This sportiest configuration takes more than eight seconds to reach 100 km/h. All other C230s utilize seven-speed automatic transmissions.
The most notable option on the C230 is the sport - or as I call it, 'almost AMG' - package. Included are more aggressive bumpers and side sills, larger 17-inch wheels, firmer, lower suspension settings, a revised grille, and more sporty interior trim pieces. This will attract a larger, younger audience, especially being a no-cost option.
Better value is at the core of the C230, and this will help to bridge a price cleft when comparing with U.S. C-Class models. Beyond North America though, the C-Class is offered with diesel engine options which would contribute nicely to the growing availability on our shores.
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| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C350 |
photo:Amyot Bachand
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