Mercedes - Repair and Service Redwood City - 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class spied with updates - Bosch European (650) 368-3000

 

 

 

Mercedes-Benz is readying an electric C-Class for launch in 2026, but the current gas-powered C-Class, on sale since the 2022 model year, isn't going anywhere.

It's set to receive an update, as evidenced by the recent sighting of a camouflaged prototype sporting some changes.

The prototypes feature a revised grille that appears similar to the design used on the latest E-Class. The headlights are also new and feature Mercedes star logos, a design trait expected to first appear on a redesigned CLA-Class due next year.

Other changes include a new design for the side mirror caps with clearly visible cameras for the surround-view camera system, plus a revised rear end. The interior design looks to be unchanged for now.

2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class facelift spy shots - Photo via Baldauf

 

It isn't clear what Mercedes has planned for the mechanicals. The C-Class currently comes standard in the U.S. with a 2.0-liter turbo-4 mated to a mild-hybrid system, and generating a peak 255 hp. Buyers can choose between rear- and all-wheel drive.

For performance fans, Mercedes' AMG skunkworks offers the C 43 and C 63 S E Performance. The C 43 packs a 2.0-liter turbo-4 and mild-hybrid combination rated at 416 hp, while the C 63 S E Performance pairs a 2.0-liter turbo-4 with a plug-in hybrid system that adds a powerful electric motor at the rear axle. The peak output of the C 63 S E Performance is 671 hp, though there's a hefty weight penalty associated with the plug-in hybrid system.

Look for the updated C-Class to debut late next year as a 2026 model. It should be followed shortly after by the electric C-Class, which has been confirmed to start sales in 2026, meaning it will likely arrive as a 2027 model in the U.S. An electric GLC-Class is also due to go on sale in 2026.

The C-Class used to be one of Mercedes' top sellers in the U.S., averaging more than 70,000 units annually just a decade ago. Sales in recent years, however, have been less than half that, as more buyers in the compact segment opt for crossovers like the GLB-Class and GLC-Class.

 source: https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1145265_2026-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots

by Viknesh Vijayenthiran
http://www.boscheuropean.com

Range Rover - Repair and Service Redwood City - Range Rover Electric endures over 120 degrees in hot-weather testing - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

 

 

 

An electric version of the iconic Range Rover is coming soon from JLR.

Order books for the vehicle, to be known as the Range Rover Electric, have been open since late 2023, and deliveries are slated to start next year, meaning we'll likely see it arrive as a 2026 model in the U.S.

Potential buyers won't need to worry about any loss of capability, as prototypes have endured the same harsh conditions as their gas and plug-in hybrid counterparts. This includes performing in temperatures as low as -40 degrees F and as high as 122 degrees F and beyond.

For the cold-weather testing, prototypes were taken close to the Arctic Circle during the previous winter. The hot-weather testing is close to being signed off and is taking place in multiple locations, as prototypes not only have to endure high temperatures but also high humidity. JLR said prototypes were tested in humidity levels of up to 90%.

Range Rover Electric prototype

 To handle the harsh conditions, the Range Rover Electric features a unique thermal management system that ensures the battery, electric motors, and cabin are kept at optimal temperatures. This system works extra hard in high temperatures to ensure power delivery is unaffected, JLR said.

The Range Rover Electric is being developed on a modified version of the MLA (Modular Longitudinal Architecture) platform that underpins the gas and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers, and the vehicles will share a production line at JLR's plant in Solihull, U.K.

There isn't much to distinguish the Range Rover Electric from its gas and plug-in hybrid siblings. The only visual cue will be a unique grille. There may also be some underbody changes aimed at improving aerodynamic efficiency.

Additional EVs from JLR will follow in quick succession, including a Range Rover Sport Electric and an electric successor to the Range Rover Velar. The first of a new generation of electric Jaguars will also arrive in 2025 and will be previewed with a concept at the 2024 Miami Art Week starting Dec. 2.

source: https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1145162_range-rover-electric-hot-weather-testing

by Viknesh Vijayenthiran
http://www.boscheuropean.com