Beginning with the 26th of March 2011, the updated generation of the C-Klasse and the new SLK-Klasse will be available at the worldwide authorized Mercedes-Benz showrooms. The new models are equipped with a consistent safety package, comprising the latest assistance technologies such as ATTENTION ASSIST and PRE-SAFE, and are powered by a lineup of new, frugal, eco-friendly BlueEFFICIENCY gasoline and diesel engines, with peak outputs ranging from 120 hp up to 306 hp. For the first time, both the SLK and the C-Class offer in-car internet access throughout the new COMAND Online infotainment system. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz will also release the special "EDITION 1" versions for the SLK roadster, which feature an exclusive exterior paint finish, AMG Sports Package, an exquisite designo trim for the interior and select appointments such as the Dynamic Handling Package and the panoramic vario-roof.
Check out more details in the press release posted after the jump!
OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Stuttgart, Germany, Mar 23, 2011 – They are celebrating a joint premiere in dealer showrooms on 26 March and offer lightfooted sportiness, stylish comfort and exemplary efficiency. They also have many technical features in common, for example the powerful yet economical direct-injection petrol engines with the ECO start/stop function as standard: these are up to 25 percent (SLK) and 31 percent (C-Class) more fuel-efficient than their predecessors. Both have extensive safety features and a number of innovative assistance systems, as well as the new-generation telematic systems. The multimedia system COMAND Online provides internet access for the first time. Customers are able to surf the internet freely while stationary, or access Mercedes-Benz online services while on the move. It is also possible to specify individual destinations and routes using Google Maps, and send these to the vehicle.
And yet they are completely different: the third-generation SLK Roadster is designed for sheer driving pleasure for two, with a striking sports car design and absolute day-to-day suitability. With the new generation of the C-Class Saloon and Estate models, this high-volume model series has now been comprehensively modernised.
The Mercedes-Benz SLK model range:
SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY with 135 kW (184 hp): € 38,675 1
SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY with 150 kW (204 hp): € 44,256.10
SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY with 225 kW (306 hp): € 52,300.50
All-weather driving enjoyment – open and closed, in leisure-time and everyday use – is firmly anchored in the SLK’s genes. This is also aided by the vario-roof, which is available in three versions for the first time: painted in the vehicle colour, as a panoramic vario-roof or as a world first, the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL (€ 2,368.10). This glass roof can be switched to light or dark at the touch of a button. When light it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up when the sun’s rays are very intense.
The first feature to catch the eye is an upright radiator grille that stands proud and confident in the wind and bears the new Mercedes-Benz brand look. It facilitates the long bonnet, which is followed by the compact passenger compartment set well to the rear and a short rear end.
The interior is characterised by stylish sportiness and high-quality materials. Even in the base version the centre console and other trim parts gleam in brushed aluminium.
The exemplary efficiency, with fuel consumption reduced by up to a quarter compared with the preceding models, is also due to the ECO start/stop system which is fitted as part of the standard specification in all models.
With respect to safety, the new Mercedes-Benz SLK sets new standards in the roadster segment. Standard features include the Mercedes-Benz developed drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST. On request, the unique, preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®(€ 392.70), DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control with Brake Assist BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE®Brake (€ 1844.50) and other driving assistance systems are available.
To mark the launch of the new SLK, Mercedes-Benz is offering an "Edition 1" special model with the special paint finish designo glacier grey magno for a limited period. The standard specification of the "Edition 1" includes the panoramic vario-roof, the Dynamic Handling package, AMG bodystyling and two-tone designo nappa leather with contrasting topstitching. The additional cost ranges from € 10,103.10 to € 10,698.10, depending on the base model.
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon range (Estate model in brackets):
C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, 115 kW (156 hp): € 32,695.25 (€ 34,361.25) 2
C 200 BlueEFFICIENCY, 135 kW (184 hp): € 34,718.25 (€ 36,384.25)
C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, 150 kW (204 hp): € 39,359.25 (€ 41,025.25)
C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, 225 kW (306 hp): € 46,529 (€ 48,195)
C 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, 225 kW (306 hp): € 48,909 (-) 3
C 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 88 kW (120 hp): € 32,814.25 (€ 34,480.25)
C 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 100 kW (136 hp): € 34,599.25 (€ 36,265.25)
C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 125 kW (170 hp): € 36,860.25 (€ 38,526.25)
C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 150 kW (204 hp): € 39,121.25 (€ 40,787.25)
C 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, 150 kW (204 hp): € 43,881.25 (€ 45,547.25)
C 300 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, 170 kW (231 hp): € 47,540.50 (€49,206.50)
C 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 195 kW (265 hp): € 47,540.50 (€ 49,206.50) 4
Dynamic, resolute, self-assured: the exterior of the new C-Class
The front bumper is more assertive and dynamic. The front end has now been aligned with the new design idiom of the brand. The Saloon and Estate now have a new aluminium bonnet, which contributes to weight reduction and therefore fuel efficiency. Its contour in the area of the headlamps and radiator grille emphasises the V-shape of the front section more heavily than before. In conjunction with the newly designed headlamps, this gives the front section a more resolute impression.
Sporty, high-quality interior
A main focus of the design work in the interior was the restyling of the dashboard, with the aim of creating a powerful, sporty and high-quality look. This redesign also involved enhancing the trim concept. The surfaces of the control elements are more finely detailed and galvanised. The stepped extension to the instrument cluster now also accommodates the central display. The instrument cluster and a discreet light-catching contour continue into the front passenger side. The central, trapezoidal air vents and the round vents on the outside are highlighted in detail by galvanised trim.
More power, lower consumption: the engines
Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 31 percent. The start/stop system is standard equipment for all engine variants, whatever the number of cylinders, fuel type or number of driven wheels. The same applies to the availability of the fuel-efficient seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The only exception is the 6-cylinder all-wheel drive diesel (C 300 CDI 4-MATIC), which continues to have the well-proven 7G-TRONIC transmission.
All the engine variants are now classed as BlueEFFICIENCY models, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally compatible in their use of fuel. The most economical Mercedes C-Class model is the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with a manual six-speed transmission, the ECO start/stop function as standard and an average diesel consumption of 4.4 litres/100 km – 0.4 litres less than before. This corresponds to 117 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
Warning and intervening: the new driving assistance systems
With a total of ten new driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the C-Class reaches a new level of safety. The assistance systems are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology, and cover frequent accident causes such as driving too closely, fatigue and darkness.
1 all prices include 19% VAT
2 all prices include 19% VAT
3 not available as Estate
4 available from June 2011
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