If a couple of weeks ago we were talking about how the new, beefed up C63 AMG will also get coupe, convertible and wagon versions, now we have to refocus our attention on the regular C-Class model and its brand-new family member, the C-Class Long.

Specifically developed for the Chinese market, where additional legroom is highly appreciated, the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Long broke cover at the Beijing Auto Show->ke2062, the country's most important automotive event for the year.

We're not at all shocked that the elongated C-Class showed up this month, given that the vehicle has been confirmed since last year, but we're pleasantly surprised to find out that the China->ke2090-exclusive model is a full 80 mm (3.1 inches) longer than the standard version. For the record, Audi->ke14] added only 60 mm (2.4 inches) to the A4 when it created the A4L.

As the model kept its overhangs intact, the entire length of the C-Class L sits in a 2,920-mm (115-inch) long wheelbase, giving it a longer wheelbase than the regular Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The additional room the longer wheelbase spawns in the cabin is obviously available in the rear compartment, where passengers will be able to sit more comfortably and stretch their legs further before hitting the front seats.

Speaking of which, the front passenger's seat can be adjusted from the rear for further legroom or to compensate for the extra 25 mm (1 inch) added to the rear bench.

The Germans have yet to reveal too many details, but they did mention the C-Class Long will be offered with two different exterior designs. The tame model will come with the classic front grille with the company's star mounted on the hood, while the more aggressive version, dubbed the "Sport Sedan," will carry numerous AMG body components, including a front apron, sill panels and a diffuser-like rear skirt.

There's no specific word on what engines will be motivating the C-Class L, but the company said the base model will get 156 horsepower, while the range-topping version can be equipped with a unit that delivers as much as 367 horsepower. This means that there will be at least a C 180L, which will cover the 156-horsepower version. As for the 367-horsepower version, the only Chinese-spec engine close to that is the 360-horsepower, 2.0-liter from the CLA45 AMG, and it is doubtful that this engine will be in a long-wheelbase cruiser, like the C-Class L.

Click past the jump to read more about the Mercedes C-Class L.

2014 Mercedes C-Class L

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Mercedes C-Class L
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 85
  • Torque: 184
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Competition

Audi A4L

The long-wheelbase version of the A4 arrived on Chinese shores in early 2009, about a year after the brand B8 generation of the sedan->ke142 went on sale globally. As we've previously mentioned, the L model is 60 mm (2.4 inches) longer than the standard sedan. The A4L made its debut at the Guangzhou Motor Show and stormed Chinese dealerships with a choice of two engines.

Today's lineup however includes three units and begins with a 1.8-liter four-pot rated at 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet. The mid-range 2.0-liter is offered in two flavors, one that generates 180 horsepower and 236 pound-feet and one that delivers 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet. Lastly, the flagship model is motivated by a 3.0-liter inline-six with 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet at its disposal.

Pricing for the 2014 A4L, which can be had with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed S-tronic, starts from CN¥272,800 -- about $43,800 at the current exchange rates.

A rumor that surfaced last year claimed Cadillac->ke18 is also working on a long-wheelbase version of the ATS, but until the luxury brand confirms the move, the Audi A4L remains the only vehicle suited to take on the C-Class Long in China.

Mercedes C-Class

Mercedes-Benz redesigned the C-Class for the 2015 model year, adding more sportiness and dynamic to the mid-size sedan without revolutionizing its overall appearance.

The cabin, on the other hand, received a complete overhaul and now includes a brand new center console and a state-of-the-art heads-up display. The seats have also been redesigned, while new high-end materials such as aluminum and wood can be selected.

Two models will sold Stateside, the C300 4MATIC and the C400 4MATIC. The former gets a 2.0-liter inline-four with 235 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque under the hood, while the latter has a 3.0-liter V-6 with 329 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque at its disposal. Both version feature a seven-speed automatic gearbox.