MERCEDES-BENZ GOES BLUE

Mercedes-Benz is replacing the current baseline C180 KOMPRESSOR with a new model. Hot off the press is a C180 BlueEfficiency version which is still a C-Class as it’s known. But this is a different car, it’s one that is optimised for better fuel efficiency and a kinder attitude to the environment. Mercedes-Benz seems to be taking the “green” stance quite seriously indeed. All their models from the A-Class to the S-Class boast some kind of eco-friendly powerplant or system.

The C180 BlueEfficiency has dropped the old 1.8-litre motor in favour of a new 1.6-litre four-cylinder motor. A new supercharger has been installed resulting in the same power of 115kW and 230Nm being kept, although the torque now comes at a higher rpm. Improvements in weight saving technologies have resulted in the cars shedding an average of 25kg depending on specifications.

Changes in its exterior build are made to make it more aerodynamic so that wind and air resistance is minimal. These include sealed joints on the headlights, a longer rear axle ratio, a smoother underbody and a smaller body. In other markets different tyres are fitted as well but these only reduce fuel consumption by 0.1 litre per 100km, which Mercedes-Benz SA reckons is a small enough figure to let go.

As a result of these and other changes, the car is said to average 6.7 litres per 100km with a 9 litres per 100km under traffic conditions. It’s fitted with a mechanism that shows driver when to change gears (for the manual option) for the best results.

I got a chance to take the C180 BlueEfficiency around for a spin in the Gauteng area earlier today. I didn’t feel differences between it and the outgoing C180 KOMPRESSOR in terms of performance. The fuel consumption seemed to be good as well although we’ll only be able to certify this under everyday road testing conditions.

The C180 BlueEfficiency is but one model in a range of Mercedes-Benz cars whose main purpose is to keep drivers as far away from fuel pumps as possible. Merc’s fuel-saving technologies are called TrueBlue Solutions and they are BlueTec, Blue Hybrid, BlueTec Hybrid, Fuel Cell and the future Diesotto. As our fuel quality improves and the economy picks up again we’ll be able to start getting some of the vehicles that showcase these technologies. An important one for Merc is the upcoming S400 Hybrid whose powertrain has been developed in conjunction with BMW. Yes, BMW.

Prices for the C180 BlueEfficiency are R314 000 for the sedan and R323 000 for the Estate. It comes standard with the Mercedes-Benz Mobilo 120 maintenance contract and a 2 year unlimited full vehicle warranty.