2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Preview

2006 MB c class

Sitting out there at the end of the hood, gleaming in the sunlight and constantly reminding owners how successful and wealthy they are, the chrome three-pointed star is the most palpable perk of Mercedes-Benz ownership. The glitter is fading, though, because the entry-level luxury C-Class is moldering while competition from Acura, Audi, BMW, and Lexus erodes the importance of having one of the most recognized symbols of success twinkling away in the driver’s field of vision. In an effort to retain consumer interest in its entry-level luxury sedan, Mercedes is boosting power with a new V6 engine and is offering European customers an impressive diesel version of its aging C-Class for 2006. In addition to a couple of new engines, Mercedes-Benz offers a new Sport Edition and revised alloy wheel designs on the 2006 C-Class.

C320 CDI Diesel Engine

In the Mercedes-Benz C320 CDI, a new common-rail direct injection diesel engine makes 224 horsepower, while boasting a 376 lb.-ft. torque peak that runs flat between 1,600 rpm and 2,800 rpm. Matched to a seven-speed automatic transmission, the C320 CDI can accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 6.8 seconds. Planned for Europe, the C320 CDI could come to the U.S. at a later date, but for now the diesel stays on the other side of the Atlantic.

C350 Gasoline Engine

With 268 horsepower, the new 3.5-liter V6 under the hood of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz C350 is the same one as found in the larger E350 sedan and M-Class SUV. More powerful and more fuel efficient than the 3.2-liter V6 it replaces, the new V6 gets the C350 from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.3 seconds when equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission.

New Sport Edition

To distinguish the C-Class Sport Edition, Mercedes adds slightly modified styling front and rear, subtle side skirts, new 17-inch six-spoke wheels wearing 225/45 front and 245/40 rear tires, a sport tuned suspension, and bi-xenon headlights. Inside, Sport Edition models have silver accent trim, a three-spoke sport steering wheel, unique gauges, and an upgraded audio system. Colors are Iridium Silver or Diamond Black with a black interior.

Sedan or Wagon

For 2006, Mercedes-Benz will offer its new six-cylinder engines and the Sport Edition package with either sedan or station wagon body styles.

Photos courtesy of DaimlerChrysler

Photo by Mercedes-Benz