This year brings a number of changes to Mercedes-Benz's C-Class lineup, the most significant of which is the addition of a new diesel option called the C300d.
Benz has also replaced last year's C400 model with the C450 AMG, the newest member of the AMG Sport line with more power, a revised suspension and unique interior and exterior styling elements.
Like last year, the lineup starts with the C300, which uses a 2.0L twin-turbo four-cylinder to make 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the new 300d uses a 2.1L four-cylinder turbodiesel good for 200 hp and 369 lb-ft. The C450's twin-turbo 3.0L V6 makes 362 hp and 383 lb-ft. All of these models come with Benz's 4MATIC all-wheel drive setup and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Topping the range are a pair of AMG C63 variants that stuff a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 under the C-Class' hood. It makes 469 hp and 479 lb-ft in base form and 503 hp and 516 lb-ft in the C63 S. Both of these cars get a beefed-up "Speedshift" version of the seven-speed automatic, but are rear-drive only.
Fuel consumption estimates are 10.1/7.8 L/100 km (city/highway) for the C300, 11.1/9.6 in the C450, and 13.4/9.6 in both C63 models. The C300d hasn't been tested yet for fuel consumption.
C 300 standard features include dynamic select, electro-mechanical steering, electric parking brake, 17-inch wheels, halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights, heated and power-folding side mirrors, "artico" leather upholstery, automatic climate control, 16-way power driver's seat and 14-way power front passenger seat, Nappa leather steering wheel, keyless start, attention assist, collision prevention assist plus, pre-safe, blind spot assist, adaptive brake with hold function, rain-sensing wipers and run-flat tires.
The C450 adds 18-inch wheels, AMG exterior styling, static LED headlights, artico/dinamica upholstery with red stitching, 16-way front passenger seat, heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof.
C63 models get unique 18-inch wheels, sound system with touchpad control, satellite radio, AMG steering wheel and gauge cluster, acceleration skid control, and hill start assist.
Finally, the C63 S adds 19-inch wheels, sport exhaust, active LED headlights and a backup camera.
Prices range from $43,800 for the C300 to $83,700 for the C63 S.
