( dpa )- Mercedes is offering the C-Class with the option of 4MATIC all-wheel drive, improving traction and fuel consumption, the car maker said.
Less weight and more compact design helped improve fuel consumption by up to 0.3 litres per 100 kilometres compared to the previous generation, Mercedes says.
All the 4MATIC models are equipped with a seven-speed automatic gearbox as standard, to help the driver in unfavourable weather conditions such as rain, ice or snow.
Drive torque has been spread over the front and rear axles in a 45:55 ratio. A newly developed multi-disc clutch on the centre differential transfers the engine power to all the wheels with a basic locking force of 50 newton metres between the front and rear axles.
The 4MATIC option costs an extra 2,350 euros (3,430 dollars) in Germany and is available for the C 280 and C 350 petrol models as well as the C 320 CDI diesel.
According to Mercedes, 4MATIC will soon be available for the G- Series that will celebrate its debut as the GLK at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit from January 13 to 27.