This is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which gets a very modest facelift for the new model year.

We can tell by looking at the photos that the exterior styling changes are somewhat subtle, and are concentrated up front with the very CLS-like, L-shaped headlamps. The bumper gets re-sculptured and the hood is more heavily contoured. As for the interior, the updated Mercedes model gains a fixed LCD screen on top of the dashboard along with a completely new center console design. The updated steering wheel looks more contemporary now.

The revised C Class also gets new driver assistance systems like Attention Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Parktronic that help keep things in check out on the road. For the US market, the face lifted model gains the option of the four cylinder direct injected 1.8L engine generating 201 hp and 229 pound feet of torque. Looks like the concept of downsizing is growing in the US as well. The range-topping C350 also gets some help from direct injection, meaning its 3.5-liter V6 now produces 302 hp and 273 lb-ft, gains of 34 hp and 15 lb-ft over the outgoing model.

The 2012 C-Class will make its official debut at the Detroit Auto Show next month.