The most obvious change is at the front, where the C-Class receives a much larger radiator grille with an illuminated surround and Mercedes-Benz star pattern.
MERCEDES-BENZ has revealed the facelifted W206 C-Class, five years after the current generation made its debut. The update brings a redesigned exterior, revised electrified petrol engines, MB.OS and upgraded driver assistance systems.
The most obvious change is at the front, where the C-Class receives a much larger radiator grille with an illuminated surround and Mercedes-Benz star pattern. Depending on the market, the central three-pointed star can also be illuminated.
New headlights feature star-shaped daytime running lights, while the saloon also receives star graphics in its taillights.
Optional Digital Light units use micro-LED technology, with Mercedes-Benz claiming a 40% larger high-resolution illumination area while consuming up to 50% less energy.
AMG Line models receive sportier bumpers, while a new AMG Line Plus package adds features including black exterior elements, a rear spoiler, sports seats, red stitching and red seatbelts.
Inside, the basic dashboard layout is largely carried over. The C-Class retains a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and 11.9-inch portrait infotainment screen, but the system now runs the latest-generation MBUX on Mercedes-Benz’s MB.OS operating system.
The MBUX Virtual Assistant integrates ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini, while navigation is now based on Google Maps. The steering wheel has also been revised with physical rocker switches for cruise control and Distronic, together with a roller for volume adjustment.
Under the bonnet, the petrol range now uses an updated M254 Evo 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a new electric auxiliary compressor designed to reduce turbo lag.
All mild-hybrid engines use a second-generation integrated starter-generator that can provide up to 17kW, equivalent to 23PS, and 205Nm of additional assistance.
The petrol range starts with the C200 producing 177PS, followed by the C250 with 218PS and 320Nm. The C300 remains the most powerful regular petrol version with 258PS and 400Nm. All are paired with Mercedes-Benz’s nine-speed automatic transmission.
Mercedes-Benz’s technical data lists the C200 at 250Nm, although the accompanying press release quotes 270Nm for the same engine.
Plug-in hybrid versions also continue, including the C400 e 4Matic with a combined system output of 395PS and 650Nm. Its 19.53kWh usable battery provides up to 100km of WLTP electric range, with charging supported at up to 11kW AC and 55kW DC.
Diesel versions remain available in Europe with 163 PS and 200 PS outputs, also incorporating the new 48-volt mild-hybrid system.
Mercedes-Benz has also retuned the C-Class chassis with stiffer mounting points and revised adjustable damping, aimed at reducing body movement without compromising long-distance comfort.
Optional rear-wheel steering remains available, turning the rear wheels by up to 2.5 degrees and reducing the turning circle by 43cm to 10.64 metres.
The latest MB.Drive driver assistance suite is also offered. Depending on specification, functions include automatic lane changes, assistance when approaching stop signs and red traffic lights, and a reversing function capable of automatically retracing part of a previously driven route.
Mercedes-Benz says its more advanced MB.Drive Assist Pro system will eventually support highly automated point-to-point driving in urban traffic, although the feature will initially be introduced in China.
The facelifted Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon and Estate will be available to order in Germany from August 18 this year. No word yet on when the new W206 C-Class will arrive in Malaysia.