The 2022 Mercedes-Benz (W206) C-Class has finally arrived in Mzansi. Well, sort of. Because the models are made here, in Gqeberha, I guess one can say they’re finally released? Either way, you know what I’m trying to say. The new C-Class comes hot on the heels of the three-pointed star’s new flagship S-Class. We’ve spent some considerable time with it over the past two months to bring you these 5 things you should know about the vehicle.

It’s a baby S-Class
The newest C-Class has a mild sprinkling of S-Class DNA, starting with how it looks: the original ‘baby Benz’ is now longer and wider yet lower than the outgoing model. It now has a cab-rearward silhouette like the new S-Class with a bulbous bonnet clearly visible from the driver’s seat, longer wheelbase, and a shorter front overhang.
Utilizing the fewest body lines possible, Mercedes-Benz designers came up with elaborately sculpted body surfaces and a strong shoulder line, further enhancing the new C-Class’s dynamic stance. Combined with standard 18-inch or available 19-inch wheels, the latest C-Class is a fusion of elegance, sportiness, and understated luxury – all genuine traits of a C-Class.

It has a mild hybrid powertrain
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the non-availability of V6 and V8 engines in the 2022 C-Class. As it turns out, the W206 C-Class is the first classic Benz model to receive a fully electrified mild-hybrid powertrain.
From now on, all C-Class models will strictly arrive with turbocharged four-bangers. Still, it brought along the brand’s Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), drawing power from a 48-volt onboard electrical system filling in for the petrol engine as the turbo gathers boost at lower engine speeds.

Only two models at launch
Initially, Mzansi will get two available variants of the 2022 C-Class: C200 and C220d. Common to the 220d is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine pumping out 147 kW of power and 440 Nm of torque. Meanwhile the C200 is good for 150kw and 300Nm of torque from a 1.5 litre engine.
All C-Class models have a 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission turning the rear wheels.

It’s packed with standard features
Standard in the new C-Class is Agility Control suspension with continuously adjustable damping. Suspended by a new four-link axle at the front and a subframe-mounted multi-link setup in the rear, the C-Class offers a high level of driving engagement with the silence and comfort of a Mercedes-Benz.
It also features advanced driver assistance systems befitting of a modern Benz. Active Distance Assist Distronic can maintain a preset distance from vehicles ahead. At the same time, Active Steering Assist integrates lane recognition with a 360-degree camera to help you stay in the right lane.

You’ll love the tech inside
Inside, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class features the second-generation MBUX infotainment system, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.9-inch central touchscreen display adopted from the flagship S-Class luxury sedan.
In the new C-Class, the two display screens are slightly angled towards the driver’s line-of-sight by six-degrees to “further underlining the sporty and dynamic driver-centered design and performance of the C-Class.

Of course, the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant remains present, while the new Online Music feature integrates your Spotify, YouTube Music, and iTunes playlist to the MBUX infotainment system.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is already on showroom floors. Pricing starts at R849 000 for the C200, while the C220d starts at R908 500.
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