Mercedes has revealed its next generation C-Class in saloon and estate form, which gains a completely new interior and a range of electrified powertrains.

More than 10.5m C-Class models have been produced since it debuted in 1982, and 2.5m of those have been of the outgoing generation. While the previous model was available with electrified options, the new range will be entirely made up of mild- and plug-in hybrid options. Importantly, the new PHEV models will be able to travel for twice as long on electricity as the current cars, with Mercedes claiming they can travel for around 60 miles on a charge.

The design on the latest car hasn’t dramatically altered, but it gains cues seen on the larger E-Class and S-Class models, such as more prominent LED lighting and a sportier stance.

The interior represents the biggest change, though, with Mercedes introducing similar tech to that of the S-Class. Headed up by a large ‘floating’ touchscreen, it has moved away from the merged media screens seen on models like the A- and E-Class. Instead, a separate digital dial display features, while the C-Class also gets the latest MBUX operating system – a feature directly borrowed from the flagship S.

The screens can be tailored to show different displays, while the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistance feature is also included, while ‘over-the-air’ updates mean the car can be kept up to date without having to visit a Mercedes showroom.

A vast choice of four-cylinder petrol engines ranging from 168bhp to 254bhp are available, though diesel engines have been slimmed down to two options – the 188bhp C220d and a 261bhp C300d. The plug-in hybrids are set to arrive soon after the main launch, with both petrol- and diesel-electric models set to be offered. The long electric range will be enabled by a large 25kWh battery, while Mercedes will also offer optional 55kW rapid charging that enables a full charge in 30 minutes – something rare for a hybrid.

Going head-to-head with the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series, order books for the new C-Class Saloon and Estate are set to open at the end of March, with first deliveries expected in summer.

Prices and specs are still to be announced, but expect the Saloon to be available from around £35,000 and the Estate from £38,000.