Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate All-Terrain, debut of the new crossover from the brand with the star

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been one of the most important models from the German brand since the launch of the first generation in 1993, and after more than 10.5 million units sold. During the 28 years the C-Class has been with us, we had never seen a version with capabilities more focused on use off the asphalt, but the new generation of the premium saloon has added the All-Terrain version to its range.

Following the success of the All-Terrain version of the E-Class that appeared in 2017, the new C-Class Estate All-Terrain is presented as the ideal option for those looking for a vehicle capable of tackling somewhat rockier terrain without needing an SUV, thanks to its versatility.

Larger dimensions

With a height increase of 40 mm, a width increase of 21 mm and a length increase of 4 mm, the new C Estate All-Terrain is bigger in every respect, thanks to its wider bumpers and wheel arches that give it a more muscular appearance and a more off-road focus.

At the front, the new grille stands out, with a single chrome horizontal bar inserted into its gloss-black radiator grille, with the brand’s star as the centrepiece. The new bumper features dark grey plastic elements that accentuate the sturdiness of the whole.

The side profile catches the eye with its wide wheel arches in matt dark grey, which not only protect the bodywork but also visually raise the car even further, giving a sense of greater height. Among the optional extras, those interested in the new C-Class Estate All-Terrain can choose from several wheels within the star brand’s catalogue, available in 17 or 19 inches.

At the rear, there is a multi-piece bumper of new design with an aesthetic underbody protector joined to chrome-coloured mouldings inserted into it. The car’s design is really attractive thanks to its new, sharper light signature, presenting itself as a very serious option that will not make things easy for its rivals: the Audi A4 Allroad or the Volvo V60 Cross Country.

High-quality interior

Inside, since the All-Terrain’s standard equipment includes the Avantgarde trim, three colours can be chosen for the interior: black, beige macchiato/black or Siena brown/black. The instrument panel is slightly angled towards the driver, and as an option there is a 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch infotainment screen that forms part of the second-generation MBUX system of Mercedes-Benz.

For this version, a new menu called Offroad has been created, where data such as longitudinal inclination, lateral inclination or wheel steering angle can be checked. From the sport steering wheel, six driving modes can be selected: Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual, modes found in the conventional-bodied versions, to which are added the Offroad mode for slightly uneven terrain such as tracks or gravel roads, and the Offroad+ mode for tackling terrain with steeper gradients in complete comfort, thanks to the DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) system.

As one of the major novelties, this model incorporates a set of special off-road lights to spot potential obstacles earlier when using the offroad or offroad+ modes up to 50 km/h.

Engines and prices

As for its engines, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate All-Terrain comes with two mechanical options, one petrol and one turbodiesel, both accompanied by its 48 V mild-hybrid system, which adds an extra 20 CV of power. For the time being, Mercedes-Benz has not released further details on exactly which engines will be offered, which will be revealed together with its price at the upcoming Munich Motor Show, to be held on 7 September.