Mercedes-Benz has announced updates to its C-Class mid-sizer, which debuts an all-new plug-in hybrid variant, along with other range-wide revisions.
The C300e sedan utilises an electric motor that delivers up to 90kW and 440Nm, and can provide up to 52 kilometres of fully electric driving range.
Combined with its 155kW/350Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, the C300e can produce a maximum output of 235kW and 700Nm.
Replacing the C350e in the C-Class line-up, the petrol-electric C300e achieves a combined fuel economy figure of 2.1-litres per 100 kilometres – a 0.3L improvement compared to its predecessor.
The new variant also bests the outgoing hybrid to 100km/h, accelerating from a standstill in just 5.4 seconds – up half a second, all while producing 15 per cent less emissions.
Its 13.5kWh lithium-ion battery can be recharged in two hours using an optional Mercedes-Benz home charger, or in seven hours using a conventional plug.
Other standard kit on the C300e includes air suspension, automatic cruise control, leather upholstery and keyless start/stop.
Pricing is set at $79,200 plus on-road costs, which translates to a $6500 premium over the standard C300 sedan.
A new C200 Sport Edition grade also joins the line-up for a limited time, with driveaway pricing of $69,990 for the sedan and $74,990 for the coupe.
The Sport Edition package can also be purchased as a cost option for the wagon variant at $7200 (MRLP), and for $7700 with the sedan.
Distinguishing the Sport Edition variants is 19-inch AMG alloy wheels, an AMG Line exterior package (already standard on Coupe), rear privacy glass, adaptive high beams, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, a head-up display and automatic cruise control.
Other updates to the new C-Class range include an updated drivetrain for C200 variants – a 150kW/300Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine matched with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
In sedan form, the C200 now sprints from 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds (0.6s faster than before).
All new C-Class variants also gain live traffic information as standard.
Pricing has undergone minor adjustments, with the base model C200 sedan now priced from $64,500 plus on-road costs (up $800).
A number of other variants in the range have also increased in price, with adjustments of up to $2000 with higher-end AMG grades.
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