Confirmed: C350 is coming soon

MERCEDES-BENZ will introduce its new-generation 200kW/350Nm 3.5-litre 24-valve engine to its C-class sedan range late this year.

The announcement was made by Mercedes on the eve of BMW's E90 3 Series launch, which comprises the current C320's most direct rival in the 190kW 330i.

Already appearing in the SLK and E-class, the engine is Benz's first V6 with variable camshaft adjustment for both inlet and exhaust valves.

It is paired with Benz's 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission and can send the C350 from rest to 100km/h in a claimed 6.4 seconds - 1.3sec sooner than the current E320 can manage.

Claimed fuel consumption is 9.7-10.0L/100km over the combined cycle, which is almost five per cent better than the C320.