The C-Class has proven to be the best selling car offered by Mercedes-Benz, with the current car selling 2.4 million units worldwide. For the first time since 2007, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled their next generation C-Class based on an all-new platform that they consider to be “a bold departure from its predecessor.”

The new car is larger in virtually every dimension, with a wheelbase that's 80mm longer and an increase in width by 40mm. Although the size of the C-Class has increased, the weight has been reduced by 100 kg due to the use of more aluminium throughout the car. This weight loss also equates to not only better performance, but an increase in fuel efficiency, up to 20 per cent more efficient from the outgoing model.

The technology continues to improve as Mercedes-Benz trickles more of their high-end features to the C-Class. Safety systems such as BAS Plus Brake Assist, Enhanced Active Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus are all options on the new model, as well as air suspension, a first for the C-Class.

The interior has been updated with an appearance similar to the new A-Class and CLA, with rounded vents and a large display catching the attention of occupants. One especially interesting feature is the child seat sensor, which automatically deactivates the passenger airbags when the seat detects when a child seat is installed.

Engine options at the time of launch are limited to the 2.0-litre turbo four offered in the C300 4Matic (235 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque) and the more powerful C400 4Matic with a 3.0-litre turbo V6 offering 329 hp and 354 lb-ft. Both models include a seven-speed sequential automatic with 4Matic all-wheel drive.

Expect the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class to be officially unveiled to the public at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show on January 14-15, 2013.