The C-Class prototype shown doesn’t appear to stray far from the proportions on the current car. An even more upright front grille to match the new SL Roadster’s styling looks to be in the cards, as is a resculpted hood. Otherwise, at this venture, there isn’t more more change that we can see.
The turbocharged four-cylinder Mercedes C250 sedan will likely be the more popular U.S. variant, and a hybrid variant could appear to compete with the upcoming BMW ActiveHybrid 3. Currently, diesel availability begins with the larger E-Class, but with increasingly strict fuel economy regulations, we wouldn’t count out a lower-volume C-Class diesel if Mercedes-Benz really wants to challenge the full BMW 3 Series lineup. The rear-drive 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 is EPA-rated for 21/31 mpg city/highway.
We’ll definitely see a sedan and coupe version of the new C-Class, but don’t hold your breath for the wagon on our shores. Motor Trend says that a convertible C-Class is on the way, which would become the fifth Benz convertible offered here after the SLS AMG, E-, SL-, and SLK-Classes.
