FOUR years after launch, Mercedes-Benz is significantly enhancing the technology, equipment and design of the successful C-Class. The newly sports-tuned chassis, steering and six-speed manual transmission make the C-Class an even more agile performer.

From Summer 2004, a four-cylinder powerplant with compressor supercharger and an output of 192 hp will be added to the engine line-up for the Saloon and Estate models. The C 220 CDI, now Euro IV compliant, will develop 150 hp, thus making it 7 hp more powerful than its predecessor, whilst the new C 55 AMG developing 367 hp is the first car in this Mercedes-Benz model series to feature an eight-cylinder engine.

The C-Class interior is enhanced further by a new cockpit design featuring exceptionally well designed controls and the automatic climate control system, which comes as standard. Also standard is the new paint which is based on nano-particle technology and offers greater scratch resistance. Optional hi-tech equipment includes bi-xenon headlamps with cornering light function, steering-wheel gearshift buttons for the automatic transmission and a new range of audio/navigation systems.

Available in the UK in Estate and Sports Coupe guises from May, and in Saloon form from July, this Mercedes model series features a new-look front section - bumper, radiator grille and headlamps - that gives the cars a dynamic appearance even when stationary.