Auto China 2018: Mercedes-Benz C-Class L shown

Mercedes-Benz has shown the long wheelbase version of its facelifted C-Class at the ongoing Auto China 2018. The generation of Mercedes-Benz C-Class L had originally been launched in 2014 and the car showed yesterday brings with it changes that were seen on the C-Class recently. This car's wheelbase is 80mm longer than that of a standard C-Class.

Notable changes that come with the facelift are new four-cylinder engines options equipped with a 48-volt electrical system. LED headlamps are now standard while multibeam headlights are available as an optional extra.

The interior has been refurbished with a fully digital instrument display, a larger infotainment screen and a new multifunction steering wheel, as seen on Mercedes' newer offerings. The ambient lighting feature now comes with 64 colour options, an optional multi-contour seat package featuring a massaging function and the 'Energizing' comfort control feature seen on the S-Class. This feature allows for six selectable programs which alter the ambient lighting, sound, and other settings to improve comfort inside the cabin.

This is Mercedes-Benz' third major unveiling at Auto China 2018 after the A-Class L sedan and the Vision Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury concept.

The Chinese luxury car market, much like in India, is heavily biased towards rear seat comfort. Most buyers employ chauffeurs and car makers cater to this by offering LWB versions (Mercedes already offers the E-Class LWB and S-Class LWB) of their existing line-up. This launch is interesting from an Indian perspective given that has re-engineered the LHD Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB from China for the Indian market. It would do well to follow a similar strategy with the C-Class, given the success the E-Class has seen here.

Also see: 2020 BMW 3 Series v Mercedes-Benz C-Class