Mercedes has joined the race to cut CO2 emissions in the prestige upper-medium sector with upgrades to the C-class under its BlueEfficiency eco-brand.

Businesses ordering 2010 model year cars will have the choice of two new diesel engines, a C220 CDI at 127g/km and a C250 CDI at 134g/km. Both cars qualify for the 18% benefit-in-kind tax band.

Mercedes C-class 2010 model year
Model power fuel CO2 0-62mph
C 220 CDI 170PS 58.9mpg (57.6) 127g/km (130) 8.4secs (8.8)
C 250 CDI 204PS 55.4mpg (53.3) 134g/km (140) 7.0secs (7.5)
Figures in brackets = estate

While neither ducks below the 120g/km limit, the C200 CDI model has not yet been upgraded, staying at 156g/km. This leaves Mercedes room to bring in an ultra-low CO2 model below 120g/km to take on the forthcoming BMW 316d and the Audi A4e which both qualify for the 13% BIK band.