Mercedes C-class (2007): first official pictures

Mercedes-Benz C-class: the lowdown

This is the most important launch in Merc's diary this year - the all-new C-class. It's charged with bringing the compact exec bang up to date and giving it (Mercedes hopes) the edge over the BMW 3-series that's snatched class honours in recent years. There's a sharp new look, that's definitely pilfered some design cues from the S-class limo, plus a raft of new engines and some pretty nifty gadgets. Read on to discover the full story behind the new C-class...
So when can I buy a new C-class then?

Mercedes will launch the new saloon at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with UK sales beginning in June. Today's estate continues until this autumn, when a new wagon rolls into showrooms. New Sports Coupe and CLK models (based on the C-class, don't forget) will arrive soon afterwards. You certainly won't miss the new C. This picture shows the Sport model, with its distinctive nose treatment; the big three-pointed star grille is based on the new CL coupe's - dominating the front view. Lesser SE and Elegance models prefer the glitzy chrome treatment and have a conventional Merc star standing proud of the bonnet. Other markets will continue with the Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde trim lines; the UK is alone in tweaking its range to SE (volume model), Elegance (comfort) and Sport (does what it says on the tin).