The new Mercedes-Benz C220d flaunts substantial changes that penetrate deep inside. This is in addition to mid-life facelift the model has been subjected to. In terms of the visual bit, the car misses out on the body kit found on the 300d. The bigger wheels and other cosmetic bits that the 300d gets, inside and outside, are also missing on this car. The good part is that important features like LED head lamps, the sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, seven airbags, a parking camera and more have been retained.
ALL ABOUT LUXURY
Looking plusher and extending a ‘premium’ touch over the car it replaces, the interiors of the 2018 C220d looks quite similar to that of the 300d. Presenting luxury and comfort, the cockpit has minor differences that are limited to certain trim bits and pieces. There’s some difference in materials too over the 300d for example. There’s good space at the front and the front seats are quite comfy. At the rear, the seat is not the most comfortable in its class, even though there’s good supply of space. It looks like the spare wheel’s location in the boot floor eats into the space.
FAST AND RESPONSIVE
While the new BSVI 2-litre engine makes 245bhp in the 300d, in the 220d it produces 194bhp. In the real world, the difference is hard to tell. Feeling refined and as quiet as the 300d, the car builds power in a smooth and linear manner. Turbo lag is minimal. Exerting a strong pull with an impressive mid-range delivery, the car feels fast and responsive. Helping the engine to deliver is a nine-speed auto transmission that does its job well. Not only is the tranny quick to respond, it is also quite intuitive. The net effect is that the car is always in the right gear at the right time. If this adds to the ability of the new C220d to perform, the car indeed feels fast and responsive. Producing roughly 25bhp more than the car it replaces, the new C220d is not just quicker, it also feels more torquey and drivable. In terms of ride, the car feels more pliant. Smaller dia wheels with higher aspect ratio tyres add some more cushioning to the ride. The suspension is set towards firm. It, however, does not lead to the car losing composure over road irregularities like potholes or over road joints. Maintaining a good composure at high speeds, the car does allow some irregularities to filter through at low speeds. This is especially the case when riding at city speeds.
VERDICT
The direct and well-weighted steering makes it rewarding to pilot the new 220d. What adds to the fun is the rear-wheel drive mechanism. The car can get very interesting to drive around corners and on winding mountain roads. Not at all feeling lethargic despite putting out less power than the 300d, the new car, priced in the range of
Rs 40 and Rs 45 lakhs, approximately, will appeal to a wider set of buyers. The slight discomfort at the rear may be slightly bothersome. For those who want to be behind the wheel, and thus in control of their ride, the 220d will be pleasantly rewarding. Looking like a package that has been well-engineered, the new C-Class car is now more refined and plusher. It is interestingly laced with an AdBlue tank, SCR system and a DPF filter to be able to meet the future regulations while running on BSIV fuel.
