It seems like only yesterday that we had four guys sitting on the doors of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class "proving" the superiority of German Engineering and now we've got spy photos of the next-generation, 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
This new C-Class -- codename W205 -- is set to be built at Mercedes' Alabama manufacturing facility which just got a $2 Billion investment. The plant will also handle the GL and the M-Class.
Visually, Mercedes-Benz looks to be taking a step back with this C-Class. The hood is longer, the grille is smaller and the headlights are smaller and more aerodynamic. The whole thing is almost Acura-like. We can't tell what sort of detailing Mercedes will use on the side of this new C-Class, but intricate and bold cut lines and fenders have been their thing lately.
Powertrains are still a mystery, of course, but expect a four-cylinder (250) with an eight-speed automatic to be the volume model.
We're still very early out on this one, don't expect any final details for at least a year.
transpower says:
09:29 AM, 01/30/12
Ho hum. Not exciting at all. I'd like MB to make the C-Class look like a small S-Class....
throwback says:
10:21 AM, 01/30/12
I'm guessing it will move up in size and price to make room for the A & B class cars.
mercedesfan says:
06:06 PM, 01/30/12
@throwback,
That is unlikely. The A and B-Class have been in the lineup for years so MB already has their product positioning worked out. Plus, the C-Class has gained barely 3-inches in total length over 18 years of production even though competitors from BMW and Audi have ballooned. MB likes where the C-Class is positioned so I would expect only a modest dimensional increase on the W205.
leon79 says:
09:09 PM, 01/30/12
@throwback,
How can you say "Ho Hum", when you haven't even seen it yet?
dfelix70 says:
10:49 PM, 01/30/12
That roofline in general looks a bit mundane, but at least the C-pillar loses its squarish design of the current model, which I thought was a step back for MB. Not sure where the "Acura-like" comparison is coming from, though. Hopefully MB will make this one with a bit more excitement than the current model (though the current model's rear styling might be the best in class right now). However, they need to not make it a potential threat to the upcoming CLC.
mbukukanyau says:
09:09 AM, 01/31/12
Too late, Cadillac owns 'German engineering' now
fordfrenzy says:
05:10 AM, 02/ 1/12
It looks like a baby Lincoln ls in profile. I have always loved Mercedes Benz they and for remind me of each other they are innovative high on technology all around performance make some kick ass engines and when you think they are sleeping they come out with a model that eats the competition alive.. So all that saId can't wait to see what this c class will prevail
automkrbhm says:
01:03 PM, 02/ 2/12
This isn't a 2014 model, it won't be out for sale until 2014 as a 2015 model. The first generation W202(1993[MY1994]-2000), second W203(2000[MY2001]-2007), third W204(2007[MY2008]-2014), and this the fourth one will be seen as early as late 2013.
tailgate1234 says:
08:55 PM, 02/ 3/12
Is that a Civic or a Corolla?
bestjinjo says:
10:15 AM, 02/ 9/12
mbukukanyau, "Too late, Cadillac owns 'German engineering' now."
Thanks for the great laugh on a Thursday afternoon!!!
amgftw says:
05:03 PM, 03/20/12
I'm quite happy I still have my W203.
Benz's made in Alabama are just........weird.
Call me old fashioned, but when I buy a German car, I want it designed, assembled, and shipped from Germany.
Part of the fun is opening the door and seeing the VIN sticker with MADE IN GERMANY.
Not MADE IN ALABAMA.
It's about as inspiring as Apple products being labeled as "DESIGNED IN CALIFORNIA" but in tiny small fonts "MADE IN CHINA!"