Getting an A for the new C-class

With global sales in excess of 2.4 million vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the manufacturer's biggest-selling model.

And headed our way in June is the latest version - for which the order book has already been opened.

The C-Class model range will initially comprise the C180 from R415900, and the C200 from R436600, the C220 Blue TEC from R459000 and the C250 from R502600. Prices include VAT, but exclude emissions tax.

Model variants with larger engines will be introduced at a later stage.

The new C-Class has grown: the vehicle is 95mm longer and 40mm wider. The extra space is mainly of benefit to the rear passengers, although it adds extra room in the boot which now has a capacity of 480l - larger than any of its predecessors.

The petrol and diesel engines comply with the Euro 6 emissions standard, but also make for lively performance and driving enjoyment.

Fuel consumption has been cut by up to 20% from the preceding model.

Of course, the latest models come with numerous innovative safety and assistance systems. A standard feature is Attention Assist, which warns the driver if it notices any signs of preoccupation or drowsiness.

In addition to Adaptive Brake Assist, which offers protection from collisions from speeds as low as 7km/h, standard-fit Collision Prevention Assist Plus features an additional function: when a driver fails to respond to warnings that there is the danger of a collision, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200km/h.

Depending on the output ratings, Mercedes-Benz is offering new six-speed manual transmissions for the four-cylinder engines in the new C-Class: and the manufacturer promises super-smooth gear changes.

Smooth automatic gear changing is promised in the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission.