Spy Shots: 2008 Mercedes Benz C-Class

Mercedes’ latecomer to the compact premium sedan segment is in its final stages of testing and is due to be unveiled at next year’s Geneva Motor Show. In the meantime, UK source Auto Express has presented several images of the new car including coupe and estate versions. Based on the larger E-Class, the new C will also spawn a performance coupe model aimed squarely at Audi’s upcoming A5 and BMW’s 3-series coupe.

The new car won’t adopt air suspension or active body control because of the high costs involved, but the car will get an iDrive style control system and 4MATIC all-wheel drive as an option. Base engine will be a direct injection 4-cylinder 1.8-litre with varying horsepower from 150 to 190, followed by 2.5- and 3.5-litre V6’s ranging from 210 to 270hp further up the ladder. The range-topper will be AMG’s 5.4L V8, with power bumped up to 400-410hp to compete with the M3 and RS4. Follow the jump to see more images including the estate.

[Source: Auto Express]