The 2014 Mercedes-benz C 250, part of the C-Class redesigned in 2008, underwent rigorous safety testing, including the challenging small overlap frontal crash test conducted by safety authorities. This analysis delves into the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250’s performance in these tests, providing a detailed overview for those concerned about vehicle safety. It’s important to note that the ratings specifically apply to 2013-14 models manufactured after December 2012, due to key safety system updates implemented from that date onwards.
Understanding the Small Overlap Frontal Crash Test
The small overlap frontal crash test represents a severe scenario where only a small portion of the vehicle’s front end impacts a rigid barrier. This type of crash is particularly demanding on a vehicle’s structure and safety systems. For the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, two tests were performed. The initial test involved a 2012 model where the driver’s side curtain airbag did not deploy as intended in this specific type of crash. Subsequently, a 2013 model, built after December 2012 and incorporating reprogrammed side curtain airbags, was tested. In this second test, the side curtain airbag deployed correctly. The safety ratings and specifications discussed below are based on this second test, with structural ratings also considering data from both tests since the vehicle’s structure remained unchanged.
Key Safety Performance Findings for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250
The crash test results for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250 offer insights into both structural integrity and occupant protection. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings:
Structural Integrity and Safety Cage
The evaluation of the structure and safety cage of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250 in the small overlap frontal crash resulted in a “Marginal” rating. This indicates that while the occupant compartment offered some protection, there were areas of concern regarding structural deformation during the crash.
Driver Injury Measures
In terms of driver injury measures, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250 demonstrated varied performance across different body regions:
- Head/Neck & Chest & Hip/Thigh: These areas received a “Good” rating, signifying a low risk of significant injuries in these regions during a small overlap frontal crash.
- Lower Leg/Foot: This area received a “Poor” rating, indicating a higher risk of injury to the lower leg and foot for the driver.
Driver Restraints and Dummy Kinematics
The driver restraints and dummy kinematics were rated as “Good.” This suggests that the seatbelt and airbag systems effectively controlled the dummy’s movement during the crash, contributing to the protection of the head and upper body.
Enhanced Airbag Deployment
A crucial update for 2013 models built after December 2012, including the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250, was the reprogramming of the side curtain airbags. The successful deployment of the side curtain airbag in the second test demonstrated the effectiveness of this enhancement in small overlap frontal crashes, helping to protect the occupant’s head.
Footwell Intrusion and Lower Leg Injury Risk
Analysis of both crash tests revealed extensive intrusion into the driver footwell area of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250. This footwell intrusion was identified as a significant factor contributing to the “Poor” rating for lower leg/foot injury measures. The tests indicated a high risk of injury to the left lower leg and at least a significant risk to the right lower leg due to this intrusion. Furthermore, in both tests, the dummy’s right foot became trapped by intruding structure and the brake pedal as the left front wheel was forced rearward and inward upon impact.
Technical Measurements and Data
Detailed technical measurements were recorded during the crash tests, providing specific data points for engineers and safety analysts. These measurements include occupant compartment intrusion on the driver’s side and driver injury measures. The data from both the 2012 and 2013 tests are available for review, offering a comprehensive understanding of the structural and biomechanical responses of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250 in a small overlap frontal crash scenario. This detailed data helps in further refining vehicle safety designs and understanding crash dynamics.
Conclusion: 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250 Safety in Small Overlap Frontal Crashes
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250 demonstrates a mixed performance in the small overlap frontal crash test. While occupant protection for the head, chest, and upper legs is rated as “Good,” the structural performance is “Marginal,” and lower leg/foot protection is “Poor” due to significant footwell intrusion. The enhanced side curtain airbag deployment in models built after December 2012 is a positive safety feature. However, potential buyers and owners should be aware of the noted vulnerabilities, particularly concerning lower leg injury risk in severe frontal impacts. This analysis provides crucial information for evaluating the overall safety of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C 250, especially in demanding crash scenarios like the small overlap frontal test.
