Mercedes Benz has introduced a new version of its C-Class sedan under the guise of its BlueEFFICIENCY eco tag. The car is the C350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, and despite producing more power and torque than the standard C350 it uses on average 10% less fuel. This is because of the addition of Mercedes’ second-generation direct injection technology instead of the standard C350’s port injection. There are also several other fuel saving mods such as a more aerodynamic grille and low rolling resistance tires.

Output from the new saloon’s engine is rated at 292hp (215kW) and 270lb-ft (365Nm) of torque - up 20hp and 11lb-ft over the standard C350 - while fuel economy comes in at 28mpg (8.3L/100km). This consumption figure is more than 1.4L less than the value attained by the standard C350 and it means the CGI BlueEFFICIENCY model already meets future EU5 emission limits.

Despite its green connotations, the car will still accelerate from 0-100km/h in a brisk 6.2 seconds and reach an electronically controlled top speed of 250km/h.

The CGI BlueEFFICIENCY is available as a no cost option with the ‘Elegance’ and ‘Avantgarde’ trim levels, and comes standard with an AMG spoiler on the boot lid, a dual-flow stainless steel exhaust system, seven-speed 7G-TRONIC transmission, 17in alloys, and Mercedes’ Agility Control active suspension system.

It goes on sale in Europe at the end of this month priced from €46,796 including taxes. Other market launch dates are yet to be announced.

Mercedes C350CGI BlueEfficiency