First look: Benz takes C-class racing

FRESH from launching its bigger new C-class sedan at Detroit in January (ahead of a June arrival here), Mercedes-Benz fronted at last week’s Geneva motor show with both a Vision C220 Bluetec diesel variant and the 2007 DTM racing version of its redesigned volume-seller.

Though neither vehicle is ever likely to reach Australian shores, the wild new German Touring Car Championship contender is based on the four-door production model as per the new rules introduced from 2004, but features two doors, wickedly wide wheel-arches and a 4.0-litre racing V8 that delivers 350kW and 500Nm – despite its obligatory 28mm twin air restrictors.

Meantime, the C220 concept, which meets Euro VI emissions requirements not due until 2015, represents the first four-cylinder application of Mercedes’ Bluetec emission-control technology.

It offers 125kW/400Nm and consumption of 5.5L/100km, but technical issues will prevent the 2008 production version hitting local roads any time soon.

Read more: Wraps off new C-class sedan