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Mercedes has been a little slow off the mark with its environmental campaign, but hopes it range of new BlueEfficiency cars – spearheaded by the C180K BlueEfficiency on test here – will do for emissions, economy and public perceptions what EfficientDynamics has done for BMW. And there’s no price penalty for opting for the BlueEfficiency model – in fact at £22,585 it’s actually £815 cheaper than the standard C180K model it replaces (although that includes the recent 2.5% VAT cut).
What is this Mercedes BlueEfficiency all about?
BlueEfficiency is the umbrella term Mercedes uses to describe the optimization of aerodynamics, use of lower rolling resistance tyres, lightweight design and energy management to cut fuel consumption and slash emissions.
Rather than roll out a set number of eco-initiatives across its range, each class gets a set of bespoke BlueEfficiency measures that suits it best. So the C180 K gets a thinner windscreen, lighter but more effective noise insulation material, lightweight forged alloy wheels for a 32kg weight reduction, bespoke Michelin tyres with 17% less rolling resistance and a intelligent energy management system.
There's also a number of body tweaks - smaller exterior mirrors, complete with LED arrow-shaped indicator lenses, a smooth underbody, enhanced panel seals, lowered suspension and a partially blanked grille – for slipperier aerodynamics. Oh, and lighter, smaller 1.6-litre engine…
Full Review: Mercedes C180K BlueEfficiency CAR review | Road Testing Reviews | Car Magazine Online
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