Mercedes are on something of a roll right now, which all started with the launch of
the S-Class earlier this year.
Behind me is the all-new C-Class, which as you can see has taken quite a lot of inspiration
from the flagship, it's bigger, more efficient and more hi-tech than ever before, and we're
here in a studio in Germany to give you all the official details.
Longer, wider and taller than before, the new C-Class has a much bolder stance than
its predecessor, with the stretched wheelbase pushing the wheels further towards the corners.
The bonnet is much higher and dominated by the oversized LED headlights, and the whole
car tapers towards the rear - giving it a sleek aerodynamic profile of just 0.24cd.
Strong creases and lines are meant to increase its sporty character, and half the body is
now made from aluminium - helping it to be 100kgs lighter than before, despite the increase
in size.
This particular C-Class is the AMG Sport version, which gets this two bar grille, wider air
vents and this chrome front splitter.
At launch there will be one Diesel engine and two petrols, the C180 and C200, but that's
just the tip of the iceberg.
There will also be a new 1.6-litre diesel from Renault with class-leading emissions
figures, diesel and petrol hybrids and eventually a plug-in hybrid, all of which should join
the range by the end of next year.
Inside the cockpit the brand's 3 Series rival has taken a giant leap forward, using the
same blend of classy materials and a sweeping, wraparound dash from the S-Class to set new
standards in the class.
It looks fantastic, with brushed aluminium or exposed wood trim, high quality metal finishes
for the elegant switchgear and soft ambient lighting too further enhance its premium credentials.
It's also bristling with the latest technology Mercedes can muster.
A huge TFT colour screen sits between the analogue dials, while a tablet-style high
resolution monitor sits on the centre console and controls all the major functions.
Standard cars get a seven-inch screen, but opt for the COMAND online upgrade and you
get the larger screen, with its pin-sharp graphics and intuitive touchpad and scroll
wheel.
Using simple smartphone gestures like swiping and pinching you can control virtually all
the major functions, click easily through the various sub-menus and trace individual
letters and numbers.
Amazing as this new interior is, Mercedes also claim that this will be the best ever
C-Class to drive.
A new four-link front suspension system, variable electric power steering, and two new gearboxes
and the option of four-wheel should all help it take on the BMW 3 Series on a winding road.
Another first for the class is air suspension - which should also make it incredibly comfortable,
and allows you to choose between five different driving modes, to tailor the driving experience
to your own tastes.
In the back the slightly longer wheelbase of the new C-Class means legroom is generous,
and headroom is decent as well, and the swept
back windows and wide light fabrics only increase the sense of space.
The smart switches and vents are carried over to the rear.
Mercedes has made a lot of big claims about the new C-Class, and say it will be the most
refined, comfortable and efficient car in its class.
If it can deliver on half of those promises than it will be really impressive, and be
more than a worthy rival for the BMW 3 Series.
We won't have to wait long to find out either, with a global debut in January at the Detroit
Motor Show and a dynamic launch to follow in February, I can't wait to drive it.