The Concept Expect official unveiling at Geneva 2007 with sales starting shortly after. Also expect the etstate version to arrive 6 months later in the autumn. Our sources state a coupe is also planned which we can only interpret as being the new C-class Sportcoupé which is also based on the same platform. Although it will share more of its components than before with the larger E-Class, the next C will be much sharper to drive and more distinctive as a range in its own right: Mercedes-Benz is to position it as a true small sports saloon, rather than simply a smaller answer to the E. Base engine will be a direct injection 4-cylinder 1.8-litre with varying horsepower from 150 to 190. All V6-powered C-Class models are available with the highly acclaimed Mercedes-Benz seven-speed automatic transmission, while the C230 and C350 Sport sedans come with a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission. Horsepower for the 2.5- and 3.5-litre V6 will be 210 to 270 respectively. AMG's 5.4-litre will be revised with new horsepower rating up from today's 360 to 400-410bhp to compete with the Audi RS4 and future BMW M3. Also a 3.0-litre diesel is planned as well as the new iDrive-like operating concept found in the new S-Class. 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system will also remain available as well. Air suspension or active body control have been ruled out due to cost restraints.

The all-sedan C-Class line begins with the C230 sport sedan, fitted this year with a 201-horsepower, 2.5-liter version of the new V6. Next is the C280 luxury sedan, which comes with a 228-hp, 3.0-liter V6, followed by the C350 (available in luxury or sport trim), powered by a 3.5-liter, 268-hp version of the new V6 engine family. At the top of the line is the limited-production C55 AMG, which features the 5.5-liter V8 that's specially modified by AMG, the high-performance arm of Mercedes-Benz, to produce 362 hp for 0-to-60 mph acceleration of 4.9 seconds. All 2006 Mercedes-Benz models come standard with an Electronic Stability Program technology designed to keep the vehicle on the driver?s intended path during performance driving or inclement weather. The C-Class sedans are equipped with dual front, front and rear head curtain, and front side-impact air bags. For 2006, the C-Class sedans also are fitted with ?active? front-seat head restraints that move forward and upward in a rear-end collision to help support the driver?s and passenger?s heads and reduce potential whiplash injuries.