Customers in the Middle Kingdom traditionally like driving stretched cars, so Mercedes does its best to deliver on that expectation. Every Tri-Point Star model for that market has a long-wheelbase version, including even the A-Class and the next-gen C-Class, which just hit the spotlight at the Shanghai Auto Show.
The company brought multiple versions of the car to the event to showcase different trim schemes and radiator grille options. Compared to the original sedan, the L version has a much longer rear door and a badge on the c-pillar.
At 4,882 mm long, the car is 131 mm longer than the standard model and 99 mm longer than an older C-Class L from seven years ago. The wheelbase amounts to 2,954 mm, an 89 mm improvement over the original. The old generation had 34 mm less space between the axles, and even the latest E-Class lags 15 mm behind in this respect.
As one could expect, the extra body length translates into a roomier cabin. Highlights here include new headrests, thicker and longer rear bank pillows, and a large armrest at the front complete with cup holders, USB ports and a compartment for small items. The dashboard houses two displays, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and an 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. Noise proofing is said to have been improved, and suspension has been tweaked for comfort.