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If a conventional station wagon is not suitable for all terrain, but an SUV is too long-legged, Mercedes-Benz is now also offering an all-rounder as an alternative in the C-Class segment: the C-Class All-Terrain S206. Following the introduction of the successful All-Terrain concept with the E-Class in spring 2017, the C-Class is now also starting as a second all-rounder with a striking look and versatile capabilities.
approx. 40 millimeters more ground clearance
With around 40 millimeters more ground clearance than the conventional C-Class T-Model, standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive and two off-road driving programs, the C-Class All-Terrain easily takes on easy terrain such as unpaved dirt roads under its larger wheels. The off-road design elements include the independent radiator grille, the special bumpers, the optical underride protection at the front and rear and the wheel arch linings in matt dark gray. In addition, the crossover model has many highlights from the recently launched new C-Class.
This includes efficient four-cylinder engines with 48-volt technology, the adaptive and intuitive infotainment system MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) and the latest generation of driver assistance systems. DIGITAL LIGHT (special equipment) includes a special off-road light. The C-Class All-Terrain will celebrate its world premiere in September at the IAA in Munich, and it will be available at European dealers this year.
C-Class extremely successful since 1982
“Over 10,5 million C-Class units sold since 1982 show how popular the C-Class is with our customers. And the new generation also got off to an excellent start with over 50.000 orders in just three months. With the C-Class All-Terrain, we are adding a new variant in this successful segment to our strong range in addition to the sedan and T-model, ”says Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for sales .
Compared to the conventional C-Class Estate, the All-Terrain has increased its dimensions slightly. It is four millimeters longer and measures a total of 4.755 millimeters. Because of the wheel arch linings, the width increased by 21 millimeters to 1.841 millimeters. With the ground clearance increased by around 40 millimeters, the vehicle has also become higher at 1.494 millimeters. The standard tire size 225/55 R 17 is available on wheels measuring 7,5 J x 17 H2 ET 44,5, while 245/45 R 18 are available as an option on wheels measuring 8 J x 18 H2 ET 41 and 245/40 R 19 on 8 J x 19 H2 with an offset of 41 mm.
The capacity and variability of the load compartment remained the same: the sporty rear has a load capacity of 490 to 1.510 liters. The backrests of the rear seats of the T-model can be divided and folded down in a 40:20:40 ratio. Thanks to the standard EASY-PACK tailgate, it can be conveniently opened or closed at the push of a button: using the button on the ignition key, the switch in the driver's door or the unlocking handle on the tailgate.
Striking look: design elements emphasize the off-road appearance
The front is characterized by the single-lamella radiator grille with chrome-plated decorative elements and an embedded central star. The vertically aligned bars in the radiator grille underline the high-quality appearance with their black high-gloss finish. The independent front bumper consists partly of dark gray, grained plastic, which emphasizes the robust character of the model. Underneath is an optical underride guard in high-gloss chrome.
This C-Class has attached wheel arch linings (claddings) in matt dark gray on the front fender and on the rear side wall. In this color and design, the specific paneling of the side skirts visually contrasts with the painted body surfaces. An additional chrome trim strip is integrated into the side member trim. Exclusive wheel designs in sizes 17 to 19 inches are available for all-terrain. At the rear, the redesigned, multi-part bumper, the model-specific, chrome-plated loading sill protection and the optical underride protection underline the special demands of this vehicle.
Since the All-Terrain models are based on the AVANTGARDE exterior, the beltline trim, the surround of the side windows and the roof rails are made of polished aluminum. The trims on the B-pillars and the bars on the rear side windows are high-gloss black. In the equipment with the Night package, further trim parts (e.g. E-line, beltline, exterior mirrors) and trim elements on the front and rear (optical underride protection front and rear, as well as the loading sill protection) are high-gloss black.
The AVANTGARDE interior is also part of the series standard in the All-Terrain. With black, macchiato beige / black and sienna brown / black, there are three color concepts to choose from. The instrument panel has a clasp in silver chrome and a decorative part in diamond matt screen printing (other finishes are available). The opulent decorative surface continues in a continuous flow from the center console into the information panel.
The instrument panel is inclined at a slight six degrees to the driver. The high-resolution LCD screen in the driver's area is free and appears to float in front of the wing profile and the trim surface. This sets the driver's display apart from traditional cockpits with classic round instruments. Buyers can choose between a 10,25-inch (26,0 cm) and a 12,3-inch (31,2 cm) version. A new “Offroad” context has been designed for all-terrain. Specific content such as incline, incline and steering angle can be experienced there. The geographic coordinates and a compass are also displayed.
The seats with AVANTGARDE-specific seat graphics are a highlight. They offer a lot of comfort and lateral support. The multifunction sports steering wheel in black leather with a silver-colored cover is visually attractive and lies comfortably in the hand. The AVANTGARDE interior also includes ambient lighting.
For higher tasks: comfort chassis with around 40 mm more ground clearance
The All-Terrain has around 40 millimeters more ground clearance than the conventional C-Class Estate, the wheels are larger in diameter: The All-Terrain is therefore suitable for rough roads. The four-link axle at the front has slightly larger steering knuckles. A multi-link axle is installed at the rear, which is suspended from a subframe.
The comfort chassis with passive damping system, which is standard in this model variant, ensures balanced driving comfort and high driving stability: the damping effect is adjusted to the road surface depending on the amplitude. With smaller bumps, the rolling comfort is increased by reducing the damping effect, with stronger bumps the full damping ensures more stability.
A question of character: DYNAMIC SELECT with off-road programs
In addition to ECO, COMFORT, SPORT and INDIVIDUAL, the All-Terrain has two other DYNAMIC SELECT programs for driving off paved roads: OFFROAD is designed for easy terrain such as dirt roads, gravel or sand; OFFROAD + with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) is recommended in somewhat heavier and steeper terrain. DYNAMIC SELECT then adjusts the characteristics of the engine, transmission, steering, ESP® and 4MATIC. The driver can switch between the programs by touching the control panel below the central display.
With a broad impact: DIGITAL LIGHT including off-road light
The C-Class has LED high-performance headlights as standard. The DIGITAL LIGHT familiar from the new S-Class can be selected as an optional extra. In the All-Terrain, it includes a special off-road light. When driving in easy terrain, wide illumination ensures that the driver can recognize obstacles more quickly, even when cornering. As soon as the off-road driving program is activated, the off-road lights switch on. The function is active up to 50 km / h and switches off automatically above this threshold.
DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module in each headlight with three extremely bright LEDs, whose light is refracted and directed with the help of 1,3 million micro mirrors. The resolution per vehicle is therefore over 2,6 million pixels.
With this dynamism and precision, this system creates almost unlimited possibilities for high-resolution light distribution that adapts perfectly to the ambient conditions. The decisive factor here is not just the technology in the headlight, but the digital intelligence behind it. Camera and sensor systems in the vehicle recognize other road users. Powerful computers evaluate the data and digital maps in milliseconds and give the headlights the commands to adjust the light distribution in all situations.
The revolutionary lighting technology can be expanded to include projection functions. Available as an option ex works or online in the Mercedes-Benz shop, these additional features are activated using over-the-air technology (OTA). This system can make driving safer with projection of guidance lines, symbols and animation. For example, DIGITAL LIGHT projects two guide lines in construction sites. This marking roughly represents the width of the vehicle. This enables the driver to orientate himself even better in the narrowed lane. The intelligent technology highlights pedestrians in the danger area with a spotlight function and shows their position with projected directional points. If you are driving against the direction of travel on motorway entrances or in one-way streets as wrong-way drivers, you will be warned with a symbol. The same warning symbol appears before driving over red traffic lights or stop signs.
The catch is: trailer operation with clever assistants
With standard all-wheel drive and a trailer load of up to 1.800 kilograms, the All-Terrain is equipped for trailer operation. A partially electric towing hitch with a pivoting ball head and ESP® trailer stabilization is available as an option. The towing hitch is unlocked using a button in the trunk. Then it can be unfolded. When the key illumination goes out, it is correctly engaged.
ESP® trailer stabilization can automatically intervene in critical situations from a speed of 65 km / h. If unwanted pendulum movements are detected, these are dampened with the help of mutual braking interventions on individual wheels. This is usually enough to reduce dangerous vibrations. If necessary, the system also reduces the speed: To do this, the engine torque is reduced and the vehicle is braked on all four wheels.
A trailer maneuvering assistant is available in conjunction with this special equipment and with the parking package with 360 ° camera. It makes maneuvering the trailer easy, even for inexperienced users. The trailer maneuvering assistant automatically regulates the steering angle on the towing vehicle up to a speed of 5 km / h and up to an incline of 15 percent.
The assistant is activated when the car is stationary by engaging reverse gear and pressing the park button to the left of the touchpad in the center console.
The trailer maneuvering assistant can be operated intuitively using MBUX: the driver only needs to specify the desired maneuver via the central display or the touchpad in the center console. In this way he can choose the articulation angle with which the combination drives backwards. For the first time, freely adjustable cornering of up to 90 ° is possible. The steering is then automatically guided in such a way that the angle is maintained. The driver can also opt for the “pull straight” function when the trailer has reached the right direction and should continue to reverse straight ahead. The maneuvering process can be followed from different camera perspectives. Dynamic auxiliary lines show the route, vehicle width and distances to recognized objects.
Constant forward thrust: the latest generation of 4MATIC
The 4MATIC all-wheel drive, which comes as standard with the All-Terrain, offers more traction and driving stability even on difficult surfaces. Up to 45 percent of the engine power goes to the front axle and up to 55 percent to the rear axle. The desire for even more efficiency and the nine-speed automatic transmission required the further development of the 4MATIC drive.
With the new front-axle drive, higher torques can be transmitted and the axle load distributions ideal in terms of driving dynamics. In addition, there is a significant weight advantage compared to the corresponding component from the previous series - a contribution to CO2-Reduction. The technicians were able to further reduce the friction losses with the likewise new longitudinal transfer case. It also has a closed oil circuit and does not require any additional cooling measures.
Electrified: the engines
The All-Terrain is available with a petrol or diesel engine. In the gasoline engine, the new four-cylinder (M 254) with an integrated starter generator (ISG) of the second generation is used. The power of the combustion engine can be increased electrically by up to 15 kW for a short time.
Thanks to recuperation and the option of “sailing” with the engine switched off, the petrol engine is very efficient. In the M 254, Mercedes-Benz has for the first time combined all the innovations of the modular engine family of four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines in one unit. These include the cylinder coating NANOSLIDE®who have favourited CONICSHAPE® Cylinder honing (trumpet honing) and exhaust gas aftertreatment placed directly on the engine. The segment loader with flow connection is new, a further development of the twin scroll technology, for even more spontaneous charging.
The diesel variant also has a mild hybrid drive. Its four-cylinder (OM 654 M) comes with an integrated second-generation starter generator and a 48-volt sub-electrical system. The diesel can also recuperate and sail with the engine switched off. The electrification enables the use of an electric refrigerant compressor for the air conditioning system.
Further strengths of the new C-Class generation
The front and rear passengers benefit from the moderately increased external dimensions of the new model generation. Compared to its predecessor, the elbow width has been increased by 22 mm for the driver and front passenger and by 15 mm for the rear passengers. There is 11 mm more headroom in the rear. The greater knee room in the second row of seats of up to 35 mm makes traveling even more pleasant for the passengers in the rear.
In terms of digitality and quality, the C-Class has taken another big step in the interior. The interior adopts highlights from the new S-Class, such as the display and operating concept, and interprets them in a sporty way. The driver orientation contributes to this: the instrument panel and the central display are inclined slightly towards it by six degrees.
With the second generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), hardware and software have made a big leap: brilliant views on the LCD screens make it easier to control vehicle and comfort functions. The driver and central display offer an aesthetic experience. The appearance of the screens can be customized with a total of three display styles (classic, sporty, subtle) and several modes.
With the “classic” style, the driver receives a familiar display world. The tried and tested two-tuber provides information relevant to driving, and the content changes between the two round displays. In "sporty" the color red dominates, the central rev counter is dynamically staged. In “discreet” the content is reduced to the essentials. In addition, both screens can be adapted to the seven color worlds of the ambient lighting. The result is an impressive color experience in the interior.
The latest generation of the driver assistance package contains additional and further developed functions compared to the previous C-Class series. The driver can drive comfortably and safely in everyday situations through relief. In the event of danger, the systems can help him to react appropriately to an impending collision. A new display concept in the driver's display shows how the systems work.
The safety concept of the C-Class is based on an intelligently designed body with a particularly rigid passenger cell and specially designed vehicle structures. In addition, there is the interaction with the restraint systems: In the event of a serious accident, seat belt tensioners and airbags can be activated to protect the occupants, for example. With the help of numerous numerical simulations and real crash tests, the vehicle structure was designed in such a way that the occupants are given the best possible protection in the event of an accident. In addition to the legal requirements, internal test requirements and criteria for passive safety, which can be derived from real accidents, were also taken into account when designing the vehicle.
Massage comfort increased
The optional massage function of the front seats has been expanded and affects the entire back area: eight bubbles in the backrest provide an improved depth effect. A vibration massage is possible on the driver's side. For this purpose, four corresponding motors are integrated into the cushion. Seat heating for the rear is available for the first time.
The holistic "Fit & Healthy" approach of ENERGIZING COMFORT makes the different comfort systems tangible at the touch of a button or by voice command and bundles them in programs to create worlds of experience. At the same time, a suitable atmosphere is created in the interior - for example, revitalizing when tired and relaxing when stress levels are high. The ENERGIZING COACH suggests a suitable fitness or wellness program based on vehicle and journey information. If the driver wears a suitable wearable, the information on sleep quality and stress level is also incorporated into his intelligent algorithm.
The AIR-BALANCE package offers an individual fragrancing experience in the interior - suitable for personal preference and depending on the mood. Thanks to refreshing ionization and purifying filtering of the outside and inside air, it also contributes to improved air quality on board and to increased well-being.
With "Updates over the Air" (OTA) various software components can be kept up to date. As soon as a new update from Mercedes-Benz is available, a message appears in MBUX. The update is downloaded and installed in the background. The user then has to explicitly agree to the activation again. To transmit the data, Mercedes-Benz relies on mobile radio technology and the communication module built into the vehicle because of the high security standards.
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Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz
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