Mercedes-Benz C-class diesel launch on Feb 11, 2015

Mercedes-Benz will launch the diesel version of its C-class luxury sedan in India on Feb 11, 2015. It will use the ‘220 CDI’ engine specification, which means a 2.1-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that in the previous C-class produced 170bhp. However, there is a chance this motor could get a little more power in the new C-class.

Like the C 200 petrol model, at the time of its launch the new C-class diesel will be a CBU import. Local assembly of the C-class will commence later this year, but Mercedes-Benz understandably wants to bring the all-important diesel version of its luxury sedan here as quickly as possible.

And like the CBU C-class petrol, the C 220 CDI will be launched in a fully loaded top trim only. That means it will have features like a high-res, 8.4-inch screen for its COMAND infotainment computer, satellite navigation, LED ambient cabin lighting with three selectable colours, push-button start, a panoramic sunroof and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. You will of course get the basics like three-zone auto climate control, rear-view camera and Bluetooth connectivity as well.

We found the C 200 petrol to be an accomplished and grown up luxury sedan, but to better compete with its rivals in our market, a diesel version is essential. Being an import, the C 220 CDI is likely to be on the pricey side – around Rs 1 lakh higher than the C 200 petrol. Buyers are likely to baulk at the Rs 50 lakh plus on-road price (in certain states) however good the car maybe. Mercedes needs to introduce the locally assembled and hence cheaper versions of the new C-Class sooner rather than later to compete with its rivals on an even footing.