We challenge you to spot the styling changes
With more than 415,000 sales in 2017, the C-Class is Mercedes-Benz's best-selling nameplate, and the automaker wants to keep things that way. That's why, four years after the current generation's world debut, the company lifts the veils off the facelifted C-Class family that brings styling and equipment upgrades.
Design-wise, it's probably the most subtle makeover we've seen in recent years. Changes include new interior designs for the headlights and taillights, redesigned front bumpers for all grades (Exclusive, Avantgarde, and AMG-Line), as well as a standard diamond radiator grille for AMG-Line models. Furthermore, the rear bumper has a new lower section, and the exterior color palette adds Mojave silver metallic and Emerald green metallic.
For the first time, the C-Class can be had with Multibeam LED headlights with Ultra Range high beam.
You'll have an equally hard time noticing the interior upgrades, with the facelifted C-Class gaining brown walnut or anthracite oak trim for the center console, as well as new color combinations: Magma grey/black and saddle brown (for the AMG Line interior).
Equipment-wise, the C-Class gains several new features including the standard Keyless-Go starting function, available Multicontour Seat package, fully digital instrument display, and 64-color ambient lighting.
The C-Class adopts the display concept of the facelifted S-Class, offering an optional 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel with three different display styles. As for the center screen, customers will have two choices: a standard 7-inch unit and an optional 10.25-inch display, both in combination with the Audio 20 infotainment system. Also available is the latest-generation Comand Online system with 3D navigation.
Any of the interfaces can be accessed via touch-sensitive controls in the steering wheel, similar to those that debuted in the E-Class. Another first for the C-Class is that drivers can now operate the Distronic and cruise control systems without taking their hands off the steering wheel.
As you would expect from a Mercedes-Benz, the refreshed C-Class gains the latest driving assistance systems, including semi-autonomous features as part of the Driving Assistance package. The Active Steering Assist system gains new functions: Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. Active Brake Assist is standard.
Mercedes has yet to reveal technical specs of the facelifted C-Class, but we expect those to be disclosed at the Geneva Motor Show next month.
Until then, check out our reviews of the current Mercedes-Benz C-Class in C200 4Matic and C220d 4Matic flavors.