Some Mercedes models 'not affected' by VRT changes
12 December 2002: Mercedes-Benz C-Class models have new engines for 2003, a number of which are not affected by the VRT changes that bring cars over 1900cc into the higher band.
The new ‘Twinpulse’ engines are more powerful and torquier, and include the C180 Kompressor and the C200 Kompressor numbers in saloon (above) and estate cars, as well as the C180, C200, C230 C-Class Sports Coupe, and the CLK200.
The 1.8-litre engine in the new E-Class E200 Kompressor saloon is also in the lower VRT bracket.
Chief executive of the Mercedes-Benz division of Motor Distributors Ltd Matt Fagan said this week that he expects demand for all these models to ‘increase significantly’ in 2003. “Never before have we started a year with such a line-up of new and revised models,” he said. “This is reflected in the very strong order banks for 2003.”
The revised Mercedes-Benz CL-Class was also launched on the Irish market this week, with a number of discreet styling changes, and the newly-developed 5.5-litre V12 engine outputting 500hp.
Revisions to the S-Class for include new safety systems and newly developed engines.