Three models are offered for 2010: C300, C350 and C63. The C300 comes in either a Sport or Luxury trim, and is available with either standard rear-wheel drive configuration or Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The C350 and C63 are offered only with rear-wheel drive. The base C300 Sport with rear-wheel drive comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, while the other models come standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission.
C300 models come with a 3.0L V6 engine that makes 228 horsepower and 221 foot-pounds of torque. The C350 models get a larger 268-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine and a transmission with dual shift mode. The high-performance, limited-production C63 AMG is powered by a monster 6.3L V8 engine that produces 451 horsepower and 443 foot-pounds of torque.
Luxury models offer standard Comfort Suspension that incorporates a special damper system that effectively has two modes: a stiff one for uneven surfaces or quick handling motion, and a softer one to dampen vibration and road noise.
The C63 AMG model distinguishes itself with fender flares, a bulging hood, larger front air intakes and LED tail lamps to make it stand out, while inside there are special sport seats and a distinctive trim.
Standard equipment on all trims includes aluminum wheels, performance tires, sunroof, leather wrapped steering wheel, trip computer, and a host of other comfort and performance features. Optional equipment on all models includes navigation, harman/kardon surround-sound audio, HID headlights, rear parking aid, backup camera, hard disk drive, panoramic roof, leather seats and remote engine start. Rain-sensing wipers, woodgrain interior trim, power folding mirrors, heated seats and four-way power lumbar is standard on the C350 and C63 and optional on the C300. Mercedes' Universal Media Interface with USB connectivity is optional on all C-Class cars.
Safety features on all C-Class cars include 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, front side airbags and full-length curtain bags, in addition to Mercedes' unique pelvic air bags. Electronic stability control is also standard, along with adaptive braking, tire pressure monitoring system, and a brake-drying feature to help maintain peak brake performance when wet or dry. Rear body air bags are available as an option.
On the C300, a number of Premium packages offer a variety of luxury upgrades. The Premium 1 Package includes an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated front seats, power-adjustable seats and SIRIUS satellite radio. Premium Package 2 includes the contents of the Package 1, but adds HID bi-xenon headlamps, fog lamps, a power rear sunshade, and split-folding rear seats. A Multimedia Package includes navigation and an upgraded stereo with 6-GB hard drive.
On the C350, a Dynamic Handling Package is available, and includes active suspension, customized 18-inch wheels and steering-wheel shift paddles.
While the C63 is an admirable performer already, it can be upgraded with the AMG Performance Package that adds a limited slip differential, compound brakes, a track-calibrated suspension and a special Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel. |
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