Watch new Mercedes C-class at Detroit Auto Show: VIDEO

Mercedes-Benz promotional video for the new C-class sedans, first seen at the 2014 Detroit auto show, and other NAIAS premieres.

The car, codenamed W205, is set to reach North American showrooms in September 2014. The BMW 3-series/Audi A4-rivaling four door has been re-engineered with a new high-strength steel platform and mostly aluminum body claimed to make it 220 pounds lighter than today's third-generation C-class. Some 2.7 million of those have been produced since its 2007 launch, even as it grew bigger and then boasted some more equipment.

The weight reduction is claimed to cut fuel consumption up to 20 percent without any performance loss, while at the same time providing a lower center of gravity for better handling.