MBUSA considers offering a 4 banger engine in the w204
04-02-2008, 09:23 PM
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'05 A4 1.8TQM6
MBUSA considers offering a 4 banger engine in the w204
NEW YORK — Due to rising fuel costs here and further pressure for low emissions, Mercedes-Benz executives and engineers are contemplating a four-cylinder Mercedes-Benz C-Class for the U.S. market.
In fact, a supercharged 1.4-liter engine is already in test mules. To make the car acceptable to Mercedes customers, engineers tell us that it would have a higher level of "perceived performance" than it actually delivers. A louder exhaust and ultraquick-response throttle settings would give the driver the "perception of performance." Hey, you can't make this stuff up.
Mercedes already sells a four-cylinder version of the C-Class sedan in Europe. There, the entry-level C180 Kompressor is fitted with a supercharged 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated at 154 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. No word as to whether the 1.4-liter under development would replace the European 1.8-liter, or if it would be reserved for the U.S. market only.
If a four-cylinder C-Class sedan is launched in the United States, it would be priced well under the automatic V6-powered C300, which carries a base price of $33,040. And it will share that model's seven-speed automatic transmission.
What this means to you: Perceived power may work for those anxious to drive a Mercedes in name only. — Kelly Toepke, News Editor
In fact, a supercharged 1.4-liter engine is already in test mules. To make the car acceptable to Mercedes customers, engineers tell us that it would have a higher level of "perceived performance" than it actually delivers. A louder exhaust and ultraquick-response throttle settings would give the driver the "perception of performance." Hey, you can't make this stuff up.
Mercedes already sells a four-cylinder version of the C-Class sedan in Europe. There, the entry-level C180 Kompressor is fitted with a supercharged 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated at 154 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. No word as to whether the 1.4-liter under development would replace the European 1.8-liter, or if it would be reserved for the U.S. market only.
If a four-cylinder C-Class sedan is launched in the United States, it would be priced well under the automatic V6-powered C300, which carries a base price of $33,040. And it will share that model's seven-speed automatic transmission.
What this means to you: Perceived power may work for those anxious to drive a Mercedes in name only. — Kelly Toepke, News Editor
4 cylinder Kompressor making a comeback??
04-02-2008, 09:47 PM
#2
They can get an instant 15% increase in MPG by going to a direct injection engine on the V6s. They can't do that, but they can certify a new engine for US emissions - and sell a model that will probably see low unit sales. Does that make any sense?
04-02-2008, 10:47 PM
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Alfa Romeo 156 GTA
im very pessimistic tat a 1.4 supercharge engine could haul tat mass of a
W204, if MB really does it wit only SC, soon u'd start seeing asthmatic C-classes lining the sides of US highways trying to catch their breath... ha..
04-02-2008, 11:08 PM
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C300 Sport/Palladium Silver on Black/P2
Two views )
1- I wouldn't have the smallest engine available then, a plus.
2- there would be even more of these on the road, which would make having one even less special.
1- I wouldn't have the smallest engine available then, a plus.
2- there would be even more of these on the road, which would make having one even less special.
04-03-2008, 02:18 AM
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2008 R350 & 2008 C300
I always like the compressor engines, but the other poster is right...there is way too much weight in this car for that small of an engine. What ever happend to those direct injection engines they were promising? Originally the engine was supposed to be included in the w204 update, but now I haven't even heard rumors of when or if they will drop it in a Benz. 
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04-03-2008, 04:50 AM
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Of course, selling a diesel model makes too much sense. The torque would provide much more than just percieved performance. It would provide serious efficiency and performance. That could not be the answer though, that model is already in production....
04-03-2008, 08:11 AM
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With diesel fuel pricing much higher than premium already (for example, in Boston 93 is $3.38 and diesel is $4.16), I think even more people would be turned away from buying a diesel. It takes a bit of time to break even on a gasoline vs diesel in terms of savings.
04-03-2008, 08:58 AM
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You can't just look at the gal $ value here. You need to figure the improvement in mpg as well if you want to make that comparisson.
04-03-2008, 09:04 AM
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Oh I know. I'm just saying the mindset of some/most people. They will see that diesel is almost $1.00 more per gallon so they think to themselves, why would I want to pay that much more when I'm already paying $3.xx for gasoline.
I've read a few articles here and there saying that it will take a few years to actually see the savings in gas vs diesel. Kind of like the hybrid vs gasoline in comparable vehicles (civic gas vs civic hybrid, etc).
I've read a few articles here and there saying that it will take a few years to actually see the savings in gas vs diesel. Kind of like the hybrid vs gasoline in comparable vehicles (civic gas vs civic hybrid, etc).
04-03-2008, 09:19 AM
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'14 GLK250 Diesel
Yeah, give me the 4 cyl diesel....ready now, what's the holdup?
I've been saying all along that MBUSA has to pull its head out of the sand [or wherever that head currently resides] and get realistic about its offering in our market. I just hope it will happen sooner rather than later.
I've been saying all along that MBUSA has to pull its head out of the sand [or wherever that head currently resides] and get realistic about its offering in our market. I just hope it will happen sooner rather than later.
04-03-2008, 01:56 PM
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Oh I know. I'm just saying the mindset of some/most people. They will see that diesel is almost $1.00 more per gallon so they think to themselves, why would I want to pay that much more when I'm already paying $3.xx for gasoline.
I've read a few articles here and there saying that it will take a few years to actually see the savings in gas vs diesel. Kind of like the hybrid vs gasoline in comparable vehicles (civic gas vs civic hybrid, etc).
I've read a few articles here and there saying that it will take a few years to actually see the savings in gas vs diesel. Kind of like the hybrid vs gasoline in comparable vehicles (civic gas vs civic hybrid, etc).
04-03-2008, 02:08 PM
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'05 A4 1.8TQM6
I suppose it all depends on the diesel vehicle and diesel pricing.
Article: Diesel ML vs Gas ML. It'll take about 3.2 years. Jeep Cherokee Diesel vs Gas takes about 5.8 years.
3.2 years is still a bit of time and some people don't plan to keep the car past it's warranty period or longer than 4 years and trade them in for something new. It would make more sense to people who tend to keep their cars for a long time (5+ years) to break even.
http://www.edmunds.com/advice/strate...4/article.html
Article: Diesel ML vs Gas ML. It'll take about 3.2 years. Jeep Cherokee Diesel vs Gas takes about 5.8 years.
3.2 years is still a bit of time and some people don't plan to keep the car past it's warranty period or longer than 4 years and trade them in for something new. It would make more sense to people who tend to keep their cars for a long time (5+ years) to break even.
http://www.edmunds.com/advice/strate...4/article.html
04-03-2008, 03:37 PM
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I suppose it all depends on the diesel vehicle and diesel pricing.
Article: Diesel ML vs Gas ML. It'll take about 3.2 years. Jeep Cherokee Diesel vs Gas takes about 5.8 years.
3.2 years is still a bit of time and some people don't plan to keep the car past it's warranty period or longer than 4 years and trade them in for something new. It would make more sense to people who tend to keep their cars for a long time (5+ years) to break even.
http://www.edmunds.com/advice/strate...4/article.html
Article: Diesel ML vs Gas ML. It'll take about 3.2 years. Jeep Cherokee Diesel vs Gas takes about 5.8 years.
3.2 years is still a bit of time and some people don't plan to keep the car past it's warranty period or longer than 4 years and trade them in for something new. It would make more sense to people who tend to keep their cars for a long time (5+ years) to break even.
http://www.edmunds.com/advice/strate...4/article.html
04-03-2008, 09:41 PM
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our fellow Canadians north of the border get the C220 with optional 4matic (in addition to the highly desirable C350 4matic). I think it makes sense especially those who live in the city or have to endure bad rush hour traffic where the extra power and speed is absolutely pointless (and inefficient).
I'd like to see more diesels or hybrids here though.
I'd like to see more diesels or hybrids here though.
04-03-2008, 11:06 PM
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2005 C230K Sport Sedan, 6 speed manual
With gasoline prices setting a new record every week or so, I am really glad I have the four-cylinder engine in my W203. I think Mercedes will find buyers for this engine in the W204, if offered in the US. Not enough performance? Get the 6-speed manual.
Or better yet, A Diesel with 6-speed manual. Sporty and economical.
Let's face it, we are all going to have to make adjustments in our lifestyles due to high prices (petroleum and otherwise).
Or better yet, A Diesel with 6-speed manual. Sporty and economical.
Let's face it, we are all going to have to make adjustments in our lifestyles due to high prices (petroleum and otherwise).
04-03-2008, 11:55 PM
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Well said alpinweiss. I have driven a diesel car now for 15 years & would not consider returning to petrol . It alway averaged about 30% beter fuel economy, low maintenance costs ie no tuneups, just oil & filters including fuel coolant, cam belt & the occasional glow plug. The original plain steel exhaust is still on the car ( well coated with soot!).
My new W204 220CDI runs on the highway at 5.3 litres per 100 km & all round ( city & country )is achieving 6.3 l /100 km. It has lively performance from the 2.14 litre engine (125 Kw & 400 Nm torque ) 0 to 100 km takes 8.4 sec in the auto & 8.8 in the manual.
Driving a Diesel is a best kept secret.
Carsey.
My new W204 220CDI runs on the highway at 5.3 litres per 100 km & all round ( city & country )is achieving 6.3 l /100 km. It has lively performance from the 2.14 litre engine (125 Kw & 400 Nm torque ) 0 to 100 km takes 8.4 sec in the auto & 8.8 in the manual.
Driving a Diesel is a best kept secret.
Carsey.
04-04-2008, 12:37 AM
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2008 R350 & 2008 C300
Ok I just researched such a situation when looking to purchase my R350. I first looked into the R320 and thought the gas mileage would save me money...the short answer...no. Yes the price difference is $1k when you start out, but you have to realize you will be paying $1 more per gallon on gas, so essentially double what your paying now to fill up. Go look at the ML, GL, or R class board and have a look at what people are getting mileage wise...about 25-29 miles per gallon...I get 20-24 with my gas R350 and pay about $40 bucks to fill up...with diesel it would be $80. You also have to add in the extra cost to service the diesel engines as well, oil changes ect. These are numbers on trucks mind you and might differ in the car platform.....but oh I could fall in love with all that torque in the diesel..ha ha
Last edited by chilledbenz; 04-04-2008 at 01:10 AM.
04-04-2008, 06:37 AM
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Ok I just researched such a situation when looking to purchase my R350. I first looked into the R320 and thought the gas mileage would save me money...the short answer...no. Yes the price difference is $1k when you start out, but you have to realize you will be paying $1 more per gallon on gas, so essentially double what your paying now to fill up. Go look at the ML, GL, or R class board and have a look at what people are getting mileage wise...about 25-29 miles per gallon...I get 20-24 with my gas R350 and pay about $40 bucks to fill up...with diesel it would be $80. You also have to add in the extra cost to service the diesel engines as well, oil changes ect. These are numbers on trucks mind you and might differ in the car platform.....but oh I could fall in love with all that torque in the diesel..ha ha
Wow, $1/gal more for Diesel is doubling fuel cost. That would mean you only pay $1/gal for premium. Where do you live again? I call
04-04-2008, 09:54 AM
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'14 GLK250 Diesel
Nothing like making car decisions for the seriously math-challenged.
Around here, diesel is running about 20% more than premium gasoline. Any fuel savings in excess of 20% means you're ahead of the game.
And, there is the satisfaction of knowing that you're just using less of a dwindling commodity - oil.
As I've been saying, I want a C with the 4 cyl diesel in our market ASAP; the B would be even better, but let's settle for one miracle at a time.
I've driven both the R and the GL with both gasoline and diesel engines - can't imagine not getting the diesel.
Around here, diesel is running about 20% more than premium gasoline. Any fuel savings in excess of 20% means you're ahead of the game.
And, there is the satisfaction of knowing that you're just using less of a dwindling commodity - oil.
As I've been saying, I want a C with the 4 cyl diesel in our market ASAP; the B would be even better, but let's settle for one miracle at a time.
I've driven both the R and the GL with both gasoline and diesel engines - can't imagine not getting the diesel.
04-04-2008, 09:59 AM
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'05 A4 1.8TQM6
I think car companies need to do a better job of marketing diesels. When most people think of a passenger diesel car (old MB diesels, VW TDI, etc), they think loud/clackety engines, black smoke, soot and slow. IMO this is what turns people off from diesel. They're uneducated of the advances made in this technology and how much cleaner, quieter, etc they are today compared to 10 years ago.
If they had marketing compaigns that compares a gasoline to a CDI/TDI engine, show the differences (or lack there of aside from the engine bay), advantages, etc, people would be more informed and turn more of their attention to diesels.
If they had marketing compaigns that compares a gasoline to a CDI/TDI engine, show the differences (or lack there of aside from the engine bay), advantages, etc, people would be more informed and turn more of their attention to diesels.
04-04-2008, 10:33 AM
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C-300, XC70, Wrangler
I once had a Peugeot, and every time I got a loaner, it was a diesel. I've also rented a diesel Passat in France. When I think of diesel, I am reminded of the oily fuel, and the residue on my hands after doing a fill-up. That's not a pleasant memory.
If dispensing the fuel was cleaner, then maybe I'd consider diesel. My experience with a 2001 Passat was that it was very difficult to realize the car was actually a diesel. Excellent performance, quiet car.
If dispensing the fuel was cleaner, then maybe I'd consider diesel. My experience with a 2001 Passat was that it was very difficult to realize the car was actually a diesel. Excellent performance, quiet car.
04-04-2008, 10:36 AM
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C300 Sport/Palladium Silver on Black/P2
Besides residue when you fill up, what are some of the issues that still exist with diesel today? Are they a slight bit louder than a petrol engine still?
I only ask this cause I've been pretty sold on diesel in these forums, for possibly my next vehicle, but what are some drawbacks? Thanks.
I only ask this cause I've been pretty sold on diesel in these forums, for possibly my next vehicle, but what are some drawbacks? Thanks.
04-04-2008, 11:42 AM
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All these posts and maybe about one guy that actually hit the nail on diesel from Mercedes. Bluetec isn't about bang for the buck fuel efficiency or saving you dollars in your pocket (not yet anyways) Its about cleaner exhausts and carbon emissions. More about it
Back to OP's topic, isn't it sad that the germans would develop something like that specifically for the US market? That shows you what they of Americans.
Back to OP's topic, isn't it sad that the germans would develop something like that specifically for the US market? That shows you what they of Americans.
