Braveheart – Mercedes C-class 200 CGI

Mercedes C-class (W204) has finally gone beyond the classic 190 and become an liberated car. Modern design is combined with an innovative drive. Not only does this mid-range sedan look good, it has a new heart beating under the hood. Worn-out compressors have given way to CGI engines equipped with turbochargers.

In the end, the Mercedes C-Class became more aggressive and thus closer to its competitors. The test version of the Avantgarde, combined with the AMG package, broke with tradition and went aggressively in search of a new design. Mercedes has placed its rival in the class of small sedans by taking off the glasses - literally and figuratively. Not only the silhouette has changed. A modern and economical power unit debuted in the test car. At the time of this writing, a modernized version of the C-class has already appeared - the same heart, but in a new package. However, let's focus on the tested model.

Looks good

The basis of the purchase is, of course, the appearance of the car. This is the first thing we pay attention to. Admittedly, Mercedes has done its homework. He changed the shape of the case of the tested model and went beyond the classical classics, following the trends of the times. The entire silhouette of the C 200 has many bevels and curves. At the front, in the foreground, the characteristic grille with a star in the center and fashionable asymmetric headlights are visible. The placement of the trademark is a consistent standardization for all models. It is complemented by a bumper covering the wheel arches with cluster-shaped air intakes. Narrow LED daytime running lights are integrated into its lower part. LED technology is also used in the taillights. Styling details are complemented by rear-view mirrors with twin-prong turn signals, chrome trim and 18-inch six-spoke alloy wheels.

Ergonomic and classic

The double sunroof illuminates the interior of the sedan even on cloudy days. The interior gives the impression of simplicity and elegance. The dashboard has a smooth surface with chiseled shelves and V-shaped lines, the clock hidden under the roof is easy to read, and its deep landing is reminiscent of sports cars. A centrally located large multi-function screen extends from the top of the center console. At the bottom there is a radio tape recorder with small buttons, air conditioning control and buttons from the equipment - finished with decorative wood, which I did not like. The light switch and gear lever are surrounded by a silver dust jacket. In the central tunnel there is a menu knob for controlling on-board systems, incl. navigation, radio, audio system. Ergonomics at a high level, but stylistically not crazy. The finishing materials are of impeccable quality and fit exactly. Rich equipment is a signal that we are in the premium class. The equipment includes practical additions: a multifunction steering wheel, parking sensors with a rear-view camera, a voice control system, intelligent bi-xenon headlights, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, a multimedia interface, front seats with memory, separate rear passenger air conditioning control.

Mercedes C 200 is designed more for traveling together. Behind it, only people of short stature or children will be comfortably accommodated. However, problems may arise when adjusting the position by a driver or passenger much taller than 180 cm. No one will sit behind them, and even a child will find it difficult to find legroom. The advantage is that the air conditioning can be controlled separately by passengers who fit in the back seat. The front seats are well contoured and have ergonomic headrests. They are comfortable and hold up well, but the seats feel too short and can be a disadvantage on long journeys. The driver will find a comfortable position for himself and easily adjust the steering column, which rotates in two planes.

Under the rear door of the sedan is a luggage compartment with a volume of 475 liters.

New service BlueEFFICIENCY

The 200 CGI is part of a new family of turbocharged direct injection engines that replace the Kompressor, which has been popular for many years. The 184-horsepower 1.8-liter engine has a maximum torque of 270 Nm, which is already available at 1800 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. There is no trace of phlegmatism here. The compact Mercedes hits 8,2 mph in 237 seconds and accelerates dynamically from the low rev range. The fourth row is lively and flexible. It shows good dynamics both in the lower rev range and when the engine is cranked to high values. It allows you to accelerate to 7 km / h. Mercedes with a new engine has a moderate appetite for fuel, and the Start-Stop system significantly reduces fuel consumption in city traffic jams. On the highway, the engine is content with less than 100 liters of fuel per 9 kilometers, and in the city it consumes less than XNUMX liters per hundred. The car handles well on the road and is confident in handling. The hydraulic power steering is precise and well balanced, making the car predictable. The comfortably tuned suspension is quiet and absorbs potholes effectively.

More than three decades have passed since Mercedes introduced the first turbodiesel to the market, and although its evolution continues to this day, good gasoline cars have not yet had the last word. They are becoming more modern and offer a wider range of useful rpm, and in the case of the CGI version, a slightly higher fuel appetite. The C-Class no longer looks like an old classic, but has gained expression and modern design. You can enjoy it at any age without fear that someone will accuse us of taking my father's car from the garage.

The basic C-class 200 CGI in the newest "nursery" costs PLN 133. However, the premium class is not complete without additives. For the Avantgarde version with the AMG package, 200-inch wheels, panoramic roof, Harman Kardon audio system and so on, you will have to shell out a hefty amount of money. The tested model with all accessories cost PLN 18.

PROS

– good finish and ergonomics

– flexible and economical engine

– precise gearbox

MINUSS

- little space in the back

– the cockpit does not knock down in style

- expensive extras