A six-cylinder engine is to go under the bonnet of Britain's best-selling Mercedes-Benz. By the end of this year, the C-class will be available with one of the latest V6 engines just introduced in the E-class saloon and estate range.

The 2.8-litre unit, which produces 204bhp, will add a fresh dimension to the model which is the most successful Mercedes ever and which already accounts for half the UK registrations achieved by the German car maker.

The motor is the first of a fresh family of modular units being assembled at a new factory designated for powerplant production at Stuttgart and a smaller-capacity version is also likely to be announced this year. Mercedes' drive for V-power is also likely to result in V8 engines being made available in E-class and SL models this year. A new V12 is also being developed.