The new C-Class 4MATIC models are ready for the off. The permanent all-wheel drive system is now available for the six-cylinder models C 280, C 350 and C 320 CDI, with even greater efficiency and a lower fuel consumption thanks to further technical enhancements. Depending on the engine variant, the C-Class 4MATIC saloons cost between 40,281.50 and 46,707.50 Euro ex factory. A seven-speed automatic transmission is included as standard.

The C 320 CDI 4MATIC and C 350 4MATIC are available in the design and equipment lines ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE, whose distinguishing features include 17-inch light-alloy wheels, a luxury multifunction steering wheel and fine wood or aluminium trim in the interior. The 4MATIC saloons have the same, extensive safety and comfort features as the rear-wheel drive models. The AGILITY CONTROL package with selective damper control is standard equipment, as are seven airbags, crash-responsive head restraints and automatic climate control.

Mercedes engineers have improved the all-wheel drive technology even further, achieving major progress with more compact dimensions, lower weight and greater efficiency. These advantages are reflected in a more favourable fuel consumption and even better traction. The new C 280 4MATIC with its 170 kW/231 hp V6 engine consumes 9.4 litres of premium petrol per 100 kilometres, undercutting its predecessor by 0.4 litres. And for the first time, C-Class customers can now opt for a diesel model with all-wheel drive: the 6-cylinder C 320 CDI 4MATIC has an output of 165 kW/224 hp and consumes 7.7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

The 4MATIC system is permanently active and therefore operates with no lag time, assisting the driver in unfavourable weather conditions such as rain, ice or snow. The centrepiece of the Mercedes all-wheel drive system is a transfer case with a centre differential, which is integrated into the seven-speed automatic transmission. From here the torque is distributed to the front and rear axles in a 45 :55 split. A newly developed multi-disc clutch on the centre differential transfers the engine power to all four wheels with a basic locking force of 50 newton metres between the front and rear axles, which means that the new C-Class moves off even more easily on slippery road surfaces, and has even more stable handling than the preceding 4MATIC models.

As a standard feature, Mercedes-Benz combines this permanent all-wheel drive system with the Electronic Stability Program ESP® and the traction system 4ETS, which selectively brakes wheels at the onset of spin and increases the torque at the wheels which still have good traction. The system uses sensor signals to meter the automatic braking impulses which improve traction on slippery surfaces and increase stability during critical driving manoeuvres. As a result, 4ETS achieves the same effect as conventional differential locks while offering appreciably more comfort than other all-wheel drive cars.