Mercedes-Benz's C-Class Gains EV-Like FaceMercedes-BenzThis is the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which is a bit of news that might surprise you given that Mercedes unveiled a new C-Class just a few months back. You aren't seeing double, not unless you see four C-Classes. That first one was the all-new C-Class Electric; this one unveiled Tuesday is a facelift to the separate internal combustion model, with a fresh look unites it more visually with that entirely new electric car.The brand's strategy can, admittedly, be a bit confusing. Mercedes does not differentiate between electric and internal combustion models of cars like the CLA-Class, while cars like the the S-Class and GLS-Class are considered completely distinct from separately-named EVs like the EQS and EQS SUV. The C-Class lands somewhere in between, now sharing a name and styling cues with its EV sibling while remaining a distinct gas-powered model.Mercedes-BenzThe biggest change to the C comes up front, where an illuminated grille brings the compact sedan closer in line with the bright face that first debuted on the GLC EV last year. Star-shaped headlights, another mainstay of recent Mercedes products, also make their way to even the most basic C-Class with this update.AdvertisementAdvertisementBuyers uninterested in the C EV's overwhelming "Superscreen" dashboard and even more overwhelming "Hyperscreen" setup will be pleased to see a more conventional look in the ICE-y C, which comes equipped with an iPad-like central interface and a typical-for-the-era digital gauge cluster. The setup does integrate the new MB.OS technology system, bringing an AI-based MBUX Virtual Assistant feature and opening the door for over-the-air updates. Fans of physical controls will be happy to see the return of tactile controls for both adaptive cruise control and volume.Mercedes-BenzThe latest evolution of the brand's 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, the M254 Evo, produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque on the entry-level C for the United States. A 48-volt mild hybrid setup provides up to 23 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque support at low speeds, in addition to managing stop-start and coasting features designed to increase efficiency. New suspension tuning is said by the company to make the car "noticeably more agile," too.AMG models have not yet been announced for the updated C-Class, but we know that the plug-in hybrid four-cylinder C63 is on its way out and a six-cylinder C53 is incoming. Further details on that model, for which we are quite excited, should be revealed in the near future. As for this Benz-branded C-Class, it's expected to reach U.S. showrooms in the first half of 2027.You Might Also LikeIf You Can Only Own One Car, Make It One of TheseThese Are the Most Popular Cars by State