The Mercedes-Benz C-Class went through its last redesign for the 2015 model year, so we expected a carryover for at least another year or so. In a surprise unveiling, Mercedes showed off the fully redesigned 2022 C-Class.
The new fifth-generation C-Class takes a big step up toward the flagship S-Class – or down toward the CLA- and A-Classes, depending on how you look at it – with this redesign. The 2022 C-Class will roll in with a brand-new body that’ll feature a nose that features a new trapezoidal grille, wraparound LED headlights, and other A- and CLA-Class cues. The new C-Class drops the sharp body creases down the sides in favor of sleeker sheet metal, a la the S-Class. Around back, the 2022 C-Class lurches back toward the A- and CLA-Class with its pointed wraparound taillights to complete the package.
Inside, the 2022 C-Class continues in the new-generation CLA-Class' footsteps with a super-modern cabin that separates the Mercedes brand from Bimmer and others. This cabin will include distinct upper and lower dash sections wrapped in MB-Tex upholstery, oval HVAC vents, jet black trim, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and an 11.9-inch touchscreen fitted with the latest MBUX infotainment system. This will all tie together with pipe-style ambient lighting all around the dash.
Under its hood, the 2022 C-Class will boast a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with mild hybridization via a 48-volt integrated-starter generator (ISG). The four-cylinder engine will pump out 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and the ISG will add a “boost” of 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. The power will head through a nine-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels or all four wheels with optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive. This will result in a 5.9-second 0-60 time and a 130-mph limited top speed.
Mercedes didn’t get too deep into the 2022 C-Class’ safety gear, but it did say it’ll be an upgrade from the current model, which comes standard with automatic emergency braking. According to Mercedes-Benz, its updated Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC will now maintain a preset distance from the car ahead of you on all types of roads up to 62 mph. It’ll also gain a new lane-recognition system with a 360-degree camera to aid the Active Steering Assist system on country roads and highways.
