Maryland Mercedes
Since its introduction 18 years ago, the C-Class has matured into more than an entry-level luxury car. While it is still a stepping stone in the lineup, the C-Class stands quite well on its own merits. Mercedes-Benz offers four models: the C300 Luxury and Sport, C350 Sport and the C63 AMG. The automaker’s 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is available on the C300 models. Sport models now feature LED daytime running lights and all models are equipped with new headlight switches ESP controls relocated to the instrument panel. The C-Class is a favorite among luxury car buyers in Maryland. Mercedes offers a nice balance of luxury and performance in the C-Class. The C63 AMG features a new option, the AMG Development Package, which adds 27 horsepower through the use of lightweight engine components and re-tuned engine management. The AMG Development Package also includes sport suspension, limited-slip differential, a carbon-fiber rear spoiler and the speed limiter has been raised to 174 mph.
Mercedes Maryland
At the heart of the C-Class are three engines: a 3.0-liter, V-6 engine producing 228 horsepower and 221 lb.-ft. of torque powers the C300 Sport and Luxury models; C350 Sport Sedan is propelled by a 3.0-liter V-6 with 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque; and the C63 AMG takes to the road with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine developing 452 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. of torque. With the AMG Development package, the C63 gets boosted to 481 horsepower. The C-300 luxury features a seven-speed automatic transmission, while the C300 Sport offers that seven-speed or a six-speed manual gearbox. C350 sport adds Touch Shift manual control to the seven-speed automatic, while the C63 features a SPEEDSHIFT PLUS seven-speed with Touch Shift and steering-wheel mounted gear-selector paddles. AMG continues to offer breathtaking performance in a Mercedes. Maryland AMG owners are fortunate to live not too far from Virginia International Raceway.
MD Mercedes
Sport models are distinguished from the Luxury Sedan in that their wear the three-point star on the front grille instead of atop the hood. They also feature AMG styling, including the front and rear fascias and the rocker panels. Staggered width, 17-inch wheels, sport shocks, springs and stabilizer bars lower the Sport’s ride height by half an inch, while providing a crisper ride. The Luxury’s four-spoke steering wheel is replaced by a three-spoke model. Standard C-Class equipment includes a power sunroof, eight-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and central controller with a 5-inch display. There’s a driver’s information center with readout in the speedometer that can display a variety of information, including next-turn directions if the optional navigation system is installed. The navigation system is hard drive based with 40GB of storage. Audio options include a system with a six-disc CD changer and 6GB of hard drive space for up to 1,500 tracks, along with title, artist, album name and other information.
Mercedes MD
Agility Control is on all models and provides the benefit of soft and stiff dampers by using a hydraulic by-pass to damp road noise and tire vibration, while still providing responsiveness of a stiffer suspension system. An Eco/Sport setting provides more control of body lean and understeer, quicker throttle response and higher shift points in Sport for maximum performance. Eco mode lowers shift points and the vehicle starts off in second gear to enhance fuel economy. All C-Class models come with a full complement of safety features, including nine airbags, stability and traction control, antilock brakes with electronic force distribution and brake assist. All told, the C-Class offers exceptional luxury and value to car shoppers in MD. Mercedes dealer sales reps can explain and demonstrate all aspects of the C-Class. For a test drive of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, stop by Pohanka Mercedes-Benz of Salisbury.