Mercedes-Benz is making changes to its C-Class sedan lineup in India. The company plans to replace the current top model, the C 300d diesel variant, with a new petrol version, the C 300, during the second quarter of 2024. This change is in response to the increasing preference for petrol engines over diesel in the luxury sedan market particularly in urban areas like Delhi-NCR.
New Features and Engine Details
The upcoming C 300 model will be equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. This engine will include mild-hybrid technology, adding 23 horsepower from the hybrid system to the standard power, totaling 258 horsepower and 400Nm of torque. This setup allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in about 6 seconds. Mercedes will pair this engine with a 9-speed automatic gearbox.
Enhanced Ground Clearance
Recognizing the need for better ground clearance in the C-Class, especially for Indian road conditions, Mercedes has adjusted the suspension of the new C 300 to provide higher ground clearance. This adjustment not only improves the car’s ability to handle uneven roads but is also expected to enhance ride comfort by softening the suspension.
Expected Price and Trim
Mercedes plans to offer the C 300 petrol in a fully loaded AMG Line trim, similar to the outgoing C 300d. The pricing for the current C-Class models starts at Rs 60.85 lakh, with the C 300d priced at Rs 62.70 lakh. The new C 300 petrol is expected to be priced around Rs 62 lakh.
Market Position and Competition
The new C 300 petrol will compete in a segment with other luxury sedans such as the petrol-only Audi A4, priced between Rs 45.34 lakh and Rs 53.77 lakh, and the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine, which ranges from Rs 60.60 lakh to Rs 62.00 lakh.
This shift by Mercedes-Benz reflects the broader trend in the luxury car market towards petrol and hybrid models. As concerns about diesel emissions and the availability of cleaner technologies influence consumer preferences.