The next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been spied in its most revealing guise yet, spotted in Germany with its side panels completely undisguised.
CarAdvice’s spy photographer snapped close-ups of two fourth-generation C-Class sedans in Germany months ahead of the premium mid-sizer’s anticipated unveiling at the 2014 Detroit auto show in January.
Images revealing the profile of the silver test car confirm the C-Class sedan will take significant styling inspiration from the new S-Class.
Like the German manufacturer’s flagship limousine, the new C-Class features two distinctive character lines running between the wheel arches at the upper and lower edges of the door frames.
The S-Class similarities don’t stop at the side panels, either, with the compact sedan embracing its prominent grille, swept headlights and tail-lights, long bonnet and short boot lid.
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class will grow to create more rear legroom and to distance it from the new A-Class hatch-based CLA sedan that is actually slightly longer than the current mid-sizer.
Mercedes’ rival for the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Lexus IS is set to reach European showrooms around the middle of next year before landing on our shores in the second half of 2014.
The C-Class sedan will be followed by a wagon in late 2014, with coupe and convertible body styles to follow in 2015 and 2016 respectively.
