Mercedes-Benz is planning to add three "extra-economical" BlueEFFICIENCY models to its near-luxury C-Class range. The company claims that these models consume up to 12 percent less fuel than comparable gasoline and diesel-powered counterparts and also put out lower CO2 emissions as a result—all without any drivetrain changes.

The three models are the C 180 KOMPRESSOR, the C 200 CDI, and the C 350 CGI with direct fuel injection. The former cars consume 12 percent less fuel than the regular four-cylinder models, while the six-cylinder C 350 CGl should consume about 10 percent less fuel than the regular V6 car.

So how are they doing it? Mainly with currently available technologies and a dash of common sense: Reduce weight, reduce aerodynamic drag, reduce tire-rolling resistance, and reprogram the engine's energy-management algorithms. I imagine that some of it will affect powertrain response, tire grip, and turn-in response, but it remains to be seen just how much.

Some of the weight-saving techniques are pretty innovative, including new laminated glass for the windshield with a special plastic membrane layer to reduce wind noise (saving about 3 pounds) . Mercedes-Benz engineers also shaved some weight off the engine compartment firewall and designed new lightweight forged wheels and low-rolling resistance tires. And due to a slew of aerodynamic updates, including new underbody cladding, side mirrors, a 0.15-inch lower ride height, and radiator and headlight seals, the entire car now has a Cd (coefficient of drag) of just 0.25.

Source: Daimler Global Media