First Drive: 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300

The so-called “entry” level luxury segment is a very large and competitive class: the likes of BMW, Audi, Lexus, Infiniti and Mercedes are all fighting to gain market share with their entry-level vehicles, such as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Just like owners of non-luxury vehicles, buyers of entry-level luxury vehicles are expected to move up in the food chain as their net-worth grows over the years. It is no secret in the industry that if an automaker can capture an entry-level buyer today there is a good chance the buyer will purchase a mid-range model tomorrow, and possibly a top-of-the-line model in the future.

Mercedes-Benz is looking to capture more market share in the entry segment and for the 2008 model year they are launching an all-new C-Class series of sedans aimed at a younger demographic (available at your local dealer September 12, 2007).

I won’t be shy: let’s face it, the typical Mercedes-Benz buyer is of an older demographic. I’m a young guy and when I think “Mercedes-Benz”, a few things come to mind: cushy, large, and uninspiring to drive - and to be honest a little stodgy. This image rings especially true with the three pointed star sitting atop the hood - and please do not get me started on that gold colour…

Article continues at Canadian Driver

,

Dream machines in three classes: The current Mercedes-Benz Coupé family

The Mercedes-Benz Coupé family is more youthful, more attractive and more innovate than ever before with the new CLC Sports Coupé, the new-generation CLS-Class and the 4MATIC version of the CL. The CLC is the new youngster in the Mercedes range, the compelling entry-level model in the Mercedes-Benz Coupé family. Engineering highlights of the CLC include a new direct-steer system for even more agile cornering, state-of-the-art infotainment systems featuring Europe-wide DVD or hard-disc navigation, as well as an uprated four-cylinder engine that now develops 135 kW/ 184 hp. Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 10.8 percent compared with the outgoing model.

The four-door CLS Coupé looks even more stylish than before thanks to its understated yet effective styling modifications. The Mercedes-Benz engine line-up is joined by the 2.8-litre V6 engine developing 170 kW/213 hp, which consumes just 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC). The Mercedes Coupé family is headed by the luxurious CL-Class, which is now also available for the first time with permanent all-wheel drive. The new CL 500 4MATIC thus offers even greater traction and handling stability in the wet, in snow or on ice.

Coupés have always been very special cars. Especially Mercedes coupés - the epitome of elegance and exclusivity in automobile design. In essence, they represent the ultimate in refinement. No other car brand has such a proud coupé tradition and no other car brand offers such a compelling and versatile coupé family as Mercedes-Benz.

The CLC is the new “youngster” in the Mercedes Coupé family. It shares some of the family’s unmistakable features, yet retains its very own personality with its powerful proportions and striking rear end, which sets the tone with its youthful vitality and self-assured appearance…

Full story can be found at DueMotori.

,