2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class to start at $39,325

Pricing has now been released for the all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup which will have a staggered launch in the U.S. starting in September. As previously announced, the first two models to arrive here will be the all-wheel-drive C300 4Matic and C400 4Matic, which will open at $41,325 and $49,515, respectively. The entry level, rear-drive C300 will start at $39,325 when it goes on sale during the first quarter of next year. 

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Both the C300 and C300 4Matic will be powered by a sophisticated 2.0-liter turbocharged/direct-injected 4-cylinder engine. Also found in the new CLA-Class, it will make 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The C400 4Matic gets the automaker’s latest 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 tuned to make 329 horses and 354 lb-ft of peak twist. Both engines feature econo-enhancing start/stop technology and are backed by an upgraded version of the firm’s 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. 

Slightly larger but significantly lighter than the current C-Class, this new 4-door gets a megadose of standards and enhanced optional features that have many comparing it to a scaled-down version of the automaker’s flagship S-Class. Everything from Keyless Start and touchpad input to Agility Select programmability of the car’s various operational systems are found on all versions of the C-Class in addition to a full range of advanced safety features that include Mercedes-Benz Pre-Safe, Collision Prevention Assist Plus and Attention Assist driver-drowsiness monitor. 

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Beyond expected options like the latest version of Comand telematics with voice control navigation, a Sport Package, Driver Assist Package and various premium interior trim upgrades, the new C-Class also will introduce sophisticated Airmatic full air suspension for the first time. Our initial behind-the-wheel encounter with a Euro-spec C-Class made a solid impression, and we suspect this new Mercedes will provide some interesting competition for its key rivals like Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac ATS, Infiniti Q50 and Lexus IS. 

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