STUTTGART (DPA) ― The new Mercedes C-Class, to be launched early in the new year, has undergone several modifications including a new front and rear and energy efficient engines that reduce consumption by up to 31 per cent compared to the predecessor model, according to the carmaker.

Efficiency-enhancing measures include improved 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function. Ten new driving assistance systems ranging from Attention Assist drowsiness detection to Distronic Plus proximity control are now available in the new models.

Interior modernization is supplemented with a new telematics generation, completely redesigned displays and onboard internet access.

According to the carmaker, some 2,000 new components distinguish the latest generation from its predecessor. The C-Class is the highest-selling model series and thus of particular importance to Mercedes. The current series has found over one million buyers worldwide since its launch in March 2007.

Among the distinguishing design changes are the more expressive and dynamic contours with the front section being brought closer to the brand’s new design idiom such as the more prominent radiator grille surround.

The main focus of the design work in the interior was on restyling the dashboard with its integrated screen and new surface grain. The touch surfaces of the controls are more finely detailed and galvanized. The combination of keys, high-gloss areas and a new knurled wheel design accentuates the higher perceived value of the interior.

The Elegance and Avantgarde lines are more distinguishable from each other. This has been partly achieved by new trim in matt ashwood or walnut in the Elegance class, or dark aluminum or black ashwood in the Avantgarde. Standard features in the Elegance line include luxury head restraints whose side bolsters can be adjusted as required.

Both the sedan and estate versions have been given an aluminum bonnet, which contributes to weight reduction and fuel efficiency. All the rear-wheel drive C-Class models are equipped with the ECO start/stop function as standard. In future all automatic versions with the exception of the C 300 CDI 4MATIC will feature the further-developed 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission.

All the petrol engines in the model series have direct injection. One of the highlights is the introduction of the new V6 petrol engine in the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY. Power has increased to an output of 225kW/306 hp from 215 kW/292 hp in the predecessor model.

Fuel consumption meanwhile has been reduced to 6.8 liters per 100km - 1.5 liters or 31 percent less than the preceding C 350 model, according to Mercedes.