Making a statement with special C-Class models The Elegance and Avantgarde models offer a wide range of optional extras. People who opt for the new C-Class models, already making a clear statement that they are discerning individuals who appreciate quality and style, can take that a stage further by personalising their vehicles with the Elegance, or Avantgarde, models. Both are designed to incorporate extra touches of class and, in addition, offer owners the chance to semi-customise their automobiles, by picking and choosing optional extras that suit their particular needs. Someone opting for the C 280 Elegance model, for example, might decide they want to add extra touches such as twin-spoke light alloy wheels, heated front seats, or a panoramic electric sun roof. An owner choosing the Avantgarde has the option of a similar selection of extras, and might go for the Dynamic Handling Package, an AMG Sports Package or an intelligent light system. It all depends on individual taste. Whether it is the colour of the bodywork, the kind of leather on the seats, or the type of sound system installed, the vehicle will ultimately reflect the owner’s preferences and style. Having a Mercedes-Benz is already a strong statement of values; taking it a stage further, via careful selection of extra equipment, gives that extra element of a bespoke model. Extraordinary features Not that the regular models are short of extraordinary features. The C-Class is a range that has models with striking design and glorious handling as standard features. The C-Class models have taut body lines, wide grilles and sleek, wraparound rears that make them instantly identifiable, cars that have a majestic presence. Behind the wheel, it becomes even clearer what a special range this is. As always, the Mercedes-Benz engineers have raised the bar still further when it comes to technical excellence – when an update of the famous C-Class is announced, other manufacturers know they will have to scurry to catch up. Among the highlights is the Agility Control, suspension that immediately adjusts to the road conditions, whether it is a smooth commuter drive along the Island Eastern Corridor, or weekend trip along a bumpy and twisting New Territories road. Naturally, there is a choice of different engines to match the owner’s needs; sports performance lovers, pottering-about-town motorists and long-distance drivers are all catered for. Passengers will feel right at home, too. Increased legroom in the back allows the opportunity to stretch out in the roomy interior, while the driver and front passenger benefit from newly-developed seats. The person behind the wheel also enjoys a new lumbar-support system and electrically adjusted controls. Superb safety Superb safety features are standard in any Mercedes-Benz model – with every range, further fine tuning is added, an ongoing improvement process the company have been undertaking for more than half a century. The PRO-SAFE® system is yet another page in that catalogue of excellence; the unique series of features give drivers and passengers alike a feeling of well being, knowing that if the worst happens, they are travelling in one of the best-protected pieces of machinery on the road. Most of the time though, the thoughts of C-Class vehicle occupants are given over to appreciating what a mighty fine ride they are experiencing, gliding along in air-conditioned comfort. The three different C-Class models can be identified at a glance, with the more refined secrets of the Elegance and Avantgarde revealed still further when inside the vehicle. From the outside, the Elegance can be identified by its distinctive, chrome-surrounded fog lamps, striking chrome on the bumpers, wings and doors and the polished aluminium shoulder-level trim. A chrome boot lid handle and 12-spoke light alloy wheels are further evidence of those deft final finishing touches. Soothing environment Inside the Elegance, discreet combinations of colour make for a soothing environment. A leather steering wheel is standard, which perfectly matches with the leather seats. The full list of options is extensive and includes various different sporty wheels, the Thermotronic luxury automatic climate control system and the Comand APS system that comes with a six-disc changer and the Linguatronic system. The Avantegarde is similarly striking to look at –from the front, the extra-wide radiator grille and dominant star in the middle show that this is a car that means business. Contrasting colours, along with a black floor and dashboard, emphasise that clean, sporty feel. As with the Elegance, there is a wide range of optional equipment, allowing the car to be virtually customised through enhancements and additions. Picking those refinements can be a lot of fun. In Hong Kong, expert Zung Fu staff are always on hand to offer advice, pointing out which accessories and extras are likely to be the most useful for the particular needs of the owner. The process ensures that Elegance and Avantgarde owners get the precise car they want. There are few things in life more satisfying than collecting the keys to a brand-new Mercedes-Benz, fitted to your specifications, ready to hit the highway in style. click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge