BE = BlueEFFICIENCY, * including 19 percent VAT

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 in safety. The assistance systems are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology, and are grouped into two packages: the Lane Tracking package (€ 892.50) consisting of Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist as the systems that give a warning in hazardous situations. The Driving Assistance package PLUS (€ 2320.50) with DISTRONIC PLUS, BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist also has assistance systems that actively intervene following a warning.

In addition to the standard appointments – which now include a leather steering wheel – the two design and equipment lines ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE are the basis for the individualisation programme of the C-Class. The two lines are now even more readily distinguishable from each other. This has been partly achieved by new trim in matt brown ash wood or dark burr walnut (ELEGANCE), and brushed aluminium or high-gloss black ash wood (AVANTGARDE). Standard features in the ELEGANCE line include luxury head retraints whose side bolsters can be adjusted as required. There are also new optional extras such as front seat climatisation (€ 1261.40) and the Stowage package (€ 95.20). The latter includes a spectacles compartment, a stowage box under the front seats, a double cupholder and a parcel net in the rear footwell.

The new C-Class also sees the debut of a new telematics generation which will also be gradually introduced in other model series. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, telephone directory transfer, display of SMS messages, wireless music reproduction via Bluetooth and a USB interface now accommodated in the centre armrest.

The multimedia system COMAND Online (from € 3070.20) now provides internet access for the first time. When the car is stationary, customers are able to browse freely or surf to a Mercedes-Benz Online service whose pages load particularly rapidly and are also easy to use while on the move. The integrated services include weather information and a special destination search via Google, as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google Maps and sent to the car. The navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with plastic city views.

As a first in the C-Class, the Becker® MAP PILOT (€ 892.50) makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the entry-level Audio 20 CD radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the central controls and the Audio 20 display, a concealed location in the glove compartment and updating via an internet portal.