Launched just a few years ago in 2014, the current Mercedes-Benz C-Class is hardly what we’d call “old.” In fact it’s younger than the CLA, CLS, or S-Class.

But without a major facelift in the three and a half years since introduction, it’s hardly the freshest in the German automaker’s portfolio.

Fortunately for Daimler, that’s just what it has in store for compact luxury sedan. At least, it is, if these (and previous) spy shots are any indication.

Spotted testing in southern Europe, this C-Class prototype is wearing enough camouflage to tell us something’s in the works – but not as much or as heavy cladding as before. From what we can (or more specifically can’t) see, it would appear that Mercedes is preparing to update the styling of the front and rear bumpers, reshape the grille, fit new headlights, and revise the interior.

We can expect new technology to be packed inside, out, and under the hood. So look for all the latest infotainment, safety, and powertrain tech that Daimler can throw at it to be packed into what was once known (before the arrival of the A/B/CLA/GLA family) as the “baby Benz”. And don’t be surprised to see it unveiled as early as the Frankfurt show in September, after which we can expect similar revisions for the wagon, the coupe, and the convertible as well.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

Photo Gallery