Mercedes-Benz Hits the Streets With U.S. Launch of C-Class

Mercedes-Benz is offering buyers an interesting twist in its U.S. launch of the 2008 C-Class. An 11-city tour will let prospective customers test the car in the relatively uncontrolled environment of city streets. The C-Class goes on sale in the United States on August 7.

The tour kicks off on August 4 in San Francisco and includes such spots as Houston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami and Washington, D.C. The test-drives will also include a closed-course loop. The automaker said the events are free, but pre-registration through the event's Web site is required.

Mercedes has also launched a microsite to promote the new C-Class.

The 2008 C-Class will be launched in three variants: the C300 Sport and C300 Luxury, both powered by a 3.0-liter V6 that churns out 228 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The C350 gets a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The C300 sport sedan starts at $31,975, including a $775 destination charge.