Only in America would...
Only in America would this be big news - visitors to the Detroit Motor Show got the chance to be driven around in the latest diesels from Mercedes, Smart and Chrysler. Oil-burners sell in tiny numbers in the US, and are actually banned from dealerships in some states, because they"re considered too polluting.
The dramatic styling...
The dramatic styling will be accompanied by a wide range of modern engines and sophisticated technology. But the main feature is the strong curve down the flanks, leading from the low bonnet line to a high bootlid. This is a toned-down variation of the CLS four-door"s design. The new car is built around the underpinnings of the latest SLK, so the rigid chassis should give an impressive mix of ride and handling, while raising the C-Class"s status as a sporting saloon.
Under the bonnet, petrol options are set to include the 3.5-litre V6 from the current model, which will also be developed into a larger-capacity V8. There"ll be a 3.2-litre CDI diesel, too.
The interior will be influenced by the new M-Class, with an uncluttered centre console housing all the major controls. Passenger comfort receives a boost, thanks to increased head and legroom. An estate version will join the saloon when it makes its debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Meanwhile, Mercedes has also confirmed it will axe the slow-selling Vaneo at the end of the year. Only 2,300 of the quirky MPVs have found UK homes since its launch in 2002. A company spokesman told us: "We have a huge range, and with the new A-Class and the B-Class on show at Geneva, the Vaneo has reached the end of its life."