The third generation of the C-Class debuted at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show and it showed a new design for the entire range, in the same style with its bigger brothers, the E-Class and the S-Class.
The 2007 model lost the four-round headlights style from its predecessor and returned to a more common square design. It was built to offer more comfort than a medium-sized sedan from other mass-market brands. When compared to its predecessor, the W203, it featured a 50 mm (2”) longer wheelbase, to offer more legroom for the rear passengers.

The sportier look of the car was considered appealing by younger generations who didn’t consider to buy a Mercedes-Benz before. The new design was part of its big success. It was the best sold Mercedes-Benz from its era, with a total of 2.4-million units sold. The square, angular, headlights, the body-colored door handles and the sculptured profile were part of the W204 success story.

Inside, there were new features that were appealing to the younger generation. The Mercedes designers took their lead from the sporty sector and included dial gauges such as those found in roadsters or coupes. The new infotainment options started with the Audio 20 and went all the way up to the multimedia Command APS that featured a 7” color screen display with navigation. All versions featured Bluetooth connectivity.

For the technical point of view, all the range was fitted as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox but the 350 version, which was fitted with a 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox. That was offered as an option for the rest of the stable.