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We've just driven Mercedes-Benz's important new eco-specialist C-class: the – take a deep breath – C250 CDI Blue Efficiency Prime Edition. Putting the Transformers jokes to one side for a second, listen up because under the bonnet lies the beating heart of a concept car. The C250 CDI's Blue Efficiency turbodiesel engine cropped up earlier this month as the motive power for the Fascination concept car, the wacky future E-class shooting brake styling model from the 2008 Paris motor show.
But there's nothing wacky about a C-class with 201bhp, a 155mph top speed, and emissions of just 138g/km CO2 despite full-fat equipment levels. If the C250 CDI Blue Efficiency is the torque-rich route to an environmentally friendly future, count us in...
Ok, so the C250 CDI Blue Efficiency is an eco model. What's this torque-rich business?
Right, stay with us for a second while things get technical. Mercedes' new '250' CDI engine is actually an all-new 2.2-litre inline four, with twin sequential turbochargers and the latest in common-rail piezo injection. The cylinders are 4mm closer together, making the engine more compact, while mounting the crankshaft on one side allows for pedestrian impact friendly, angled installations.
A small, high-pressure turbo acts alone initially to boost low-speed response, gradually handing over to a larger, low-pressure turbo as the revs build, ensuring smooth, lag-free acceleration. The piezo injection operates at a huge 2000 bar – just like Audi's Q7 V12 TDI – and is twice as precise as before to squirt exactly the right amount of fuel at exactly the right time. Want not, waste not...
Full Review:
Mercedes C250 CDI Prime Edtion CAR review | Road Testing Reviews | Car Magazine Online
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