Mercedes-Benz' new and highly-anticipated fourth generation C-Class is making its way to the China market.

The C-Class has been a pillar product for the automaker in China with more than 150,000 units delivered to Chinese customers from the current generation C-Class alone.

Globally, the C-Class is Mercedes-Benz' best-selling model series. More than 8.5 million units have been sold since the 190 series C-Class was launched in 1982.

In 2006, the C-Class became the second car manufactured by Beijing Benz Automotive Co Ltd, or the BBAC, the joint venture between Mercedes-Benz' parent company Daimler and Beijing Automotive Group, or the BAIC.

Currently, the BBAC plant produces three Mercedes-Benz models - the C-Class, E-Class, and GLK - with the automaker's new compact SUV the GLA is set to join the locally-produced Mercedes-Benz family in early 2015.

This year, the arrival of the All New C-Class Long Wheelbase signifies another major milestone in the brand's China story as the second Mercedes-Benz model tailor-made for the China market.

"Designed for China, developed for China, and made in China. The All New C-Class Long Wheelbase is the latest proof of our strong commitment and strong partnerships in China," said Hubertus Troska, member of Daimler's Board of Management and Chairman and CEO of Daimler Greater China Ltd.

The All New C-Class Long Wheelbase boasts the longest exterior in the segment with a wheelbase of 2,920 mm, as well as large, comfortable headrests similar to the S-Class - a feature exclusive to the China market.

The All New C-Class also appeals to a diverse range of Chinese customers with two model variants - the Sedan and Sport Sedan.

In 2007, the C-Class was the first model in its segment to offer two exterior options, an innovative approach that has seen great success in the China market. This new generation of the C-Class takes things a step further with two model variants that are distinct both inside and out.

Both are a bold departure from the C-Class' predecessor on a visual level. The All New C-Class' design exudes sensuous clarity with a modern, minimalist aesthetic and perfect proportions. Full LED headlamps and tail lamps, a first for the segment, lend the C-Class a distinctive and modern look.

The interior of the All New C-Class is just as beautifully designed as the exterior with high-quality materials rarely encountered even in higher vehicle categories.

"Embodying the core of our development in China, the C-Class is the most beautiful and intelligent car in the segment,"said Nicholas Speeks, president and CEO of Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service Co Ltd - BMBS.

"Beautiful in its styling, use of first class materials and in the craftsmanship with which it is built; intelligent in the use of full LED lighting, innovative touchpad and the full range of safety technologies." added Speeks.

Uncompromising in every regard, the latest C-Class commands a number of segment firsts, including soothing ambient lighting with three colors and an innovative touchpad - the latest technology from Mercedes-Benz globally.

Installed in the S-Class and C-Class at the same time, the touchpad allows passengers to intuitively operate all head-unit functions by using the same simple finger gestures as on a smartphone. In addition to clear haptic feedback that further adds to its intuitive nature, the touchpad also recognizes Chinese handwriting, once again demonstrating the brand's commitment to meeting the needs of Chinese consumers.

Furthermore, the All New C-Class is also equipped a wide range of assistance systems that utilize advanced radar sensors to support drivers. This includes Distronic Plus, which scans the road ahead for stopped or slowing traffic.

lifangfang@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 04/20/2014 page16)