(autoinsidernews) - Spy photographers caught new prototypes of the new 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class with the least disguise seen so far. The long awaited C-Class is finally ready for launch, with its official unveiling expected at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. Sales will likely begin shortly after. An estate version is expected to arrive about six months later and sources say that the platform will spawn new C-class Sportcoupe.
While sharing many of its components with its larger E-Class sibling, the new C-Class will be postioned as a true small sports sedan and feature sharper handling. The new car will not have air suspension or active body control because of high costs, reports Trend.
The new C-Class will feature a base direct injection 1.8L 4-cylinder with horsepower from 150 to 190, 2.5L and 3.5L V6s with 210-hp and270-hp respectively. The AMG's 5.4L will be bumped up to 400-410 hp to compete with the Audi RS4 and forthcoming BMW M3. Expect the 3.0L BLUETEC diesel to be available as well.