Mercedes-Benz C-Class review
The comprehensive Mercedes-Benz C-Class review
Updated

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finder score: 82.00%
4 critics
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Critic reviews
Website | Rating | Notable quotes | |
---|---|---|---|
CarAdvice | 79% | "The revised Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a comprehensive tech upgrade from its predecessor, and builds on sound driving dynamics with a punchy four-cylinder engine backed by a high-tech mild hybrid system." | Read more |
WhichCar | 90% | "The C-Class is handsome and comfortable, has great road manners, and is built to a high standard." | Read more |
CarsGuide | 79% | "The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an evergreen performer for the three-pointed star in Australia. And the entry-level C 200's hybrid heart has given it a fresh lease of life." | Read more |
Practical Motoring | 80% | "A new engine and more tech adds to the appeal of one of Mercedes-Benz's top sellers." | Read more |
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How does the Mercedes-Benz C-Class compare with its peers?
A comprehensive review of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Mercedes-Benz C-Class pricing
There are six different C-Class models sold by Mercedes-Benz Australia: four standard sedans and two AMG-badged performance models.
There are also various body styles, including a coupé, the sedan, a wagon and a cabriolet.
You can purchase a C-Class with one of several engines:
- 2.0-litre petrol
- 2.0-litre petrol PHEV
- 2.0-litre diesel
- 3.0-litre V6 petrol
- 4.0-litre petrol V8 bi-turbo
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 200
Mercedes-Benz sets the C 200 entry driveaway price from $71,939.
Key features include: 18-inch five-twin spoke alloys, ARTICO (synthetic vinyl) leather upholstery, fully digital instrument cluster and media screen, LED high-performance headlamps and SD card navigation slot. This model is rear-wheel-drive, has a nine-speed transmission and a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 220 d
The d on the end of 220 means this C-Class has a diesel engine; in fact, it's the only diesel in the line-up. Driveaway prices start at $73,678. This model has a very similar spec to the C 200, with:
- 18-inch alloys, with five-twin-spoke design
- ARTICO leather upholstery
- All-digital instrument and media displays
- LED high-performance headlamps
- SD card navigation
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300
For the C 300 model, Mercedes-Benz sets driveaway prices from $80,923. This model has more power and torque than the C 200 petrol model, as well as:
- 19-inch, with five-twin-spoke alloy wheels
- Leather upholstery (with some areas of ARTICO synthetic material, on touchpoints for example)
- KEYLESS-GO with hands-free access (keyless entry and start), power boot closing
- Driver Assistance Package (Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE® PLUS)
- Dark-tinted privacy glass from B-pillar rearwards
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 e
Price-wise, the PHEV hybrid C 300 e starts from $89,650.30. The C 300 e is based on C 300 spec, with a few notable differences:
- 18-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels
- AIR BODY Control Suspension
- Pre-entry climate control
- Type 2 charging cable
- 50-litre fuel tank
Mercedes-AMG C 43
The AMG C 43 adds 31 extras to the C 300 spec, as well as a more powerful V6 petrol engine and AWD. Driveaway prices start from $122,420.10.
Some key highlights include:
- AMG 19-inch, bi-colour, five-twin-spoke alloy wheels
- Black Ash open-pore wood and aluminium trim
- AMG floor mats
- Head-Up Display
- Heated front seats
- Sports seats for driver and front passenger
- Wireless charging for mobile devices
- 4MATIC all-wheel drive
- AMG body styling
- AMG RIDE-CONTROL sports suspension
- Metallic paintwork
- Panoramic glass sliding sunroof
- Sports exhaust system
- 13-speaker, 590 watts Burmester surround sound system
- 360° camera
- Driver Assistance Package PLUS
- Sports brakes
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S
Driveaway prices start at $179,015.70> for the AMG C 63 S. This top-of-the-range performance model builds on the AMG C 43 C-Class, adding:
- AMG 19-inch, cross-spoke forged wheels in matte black with high-sheen rim flange
- AIR-BALANCE interior air filtering and oxygen ionisation
- AMG performance steering wheel in black Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre
- Nappa leather upholstery
- THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT-MCT nine-speed sports transmission
- Digital TV tuner
- AMG electronic rear-axle diff lock
- AMG high-performance braking system
- Red painted, AMG calipers
Click on a price to compare car loans for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
C 200 | C 220 d | C 300 | C 300 e | C 43 4MATIC | C 63 S |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
2.0-litre petrol, nine-speed auto, RWD: $71,939 | 2.0-litre diesel, nine-speed auto, RWD: $73,678 | 2.0-litre petrol, nine-speed auto, RWD: $80,923 | 2.0-litre petrol PHEV, nine-speed auto, RWD: $89,650.30 | 3.0-litre V6 petrol, nine-speed auto, AWD: $122,420.10 | 4.0-litre V8 petrol, nine-speed auto, RWD: $179,015.70 |
There are several different paint options for the C-Class.
No-cost options include:
- Polar White non-metallic
- Black non-metallic (For the C 200, C 220 d, C 300 and C 300 e)
The C 43 gets the most no extra fee paint finishes:
- Obsidian Black metallic
- Iridium Silver metallic
- Graphite Grey metallic
- Mojave Silver metallic
- Cavansite Blue metallic
- Brilliant Blue metallic
- Selenite Grey metallic
For the AMG C 63 S models, the no-cost option palette comprises of:
- Polar White non-metallic
- Obsidian Black metallic
- Iridium Silver metallic
- Brilliant Blue metallic
- Selenite Grey metallic
Overview
If you're looking for a premium, luxury or performance mid-size sedan, the C-Class has to be on your shortlist. It's well-reviewed, built to a high standard, with numerous engine options, and now comes with a five-year warranty. There's no denying it has excellent active and passive safety assists and it's also great to see Mercedes offering up a PHEV model. The main niggles from reviewers with the C-Class were minor; this thing is the result of the German brand's decades of experience in the segment. If you're looking for a yardstick to compare other premium sedans to, the C-Class might well be it.Website | Pros | Cons | Notable quote |
---|---|---|---|
CarAdvice |
|
| "...Mercedes-Benz has gone to town on high-end technology to transform the C-Class driving experience." |
WhichCar |
|
| "We would recommend the C 300 Estate as the best all-round version. The high-output 2.0-litre turbo petrol is the most rewarding of the engines, striking a brilliant balance of power and fuel economy. And the C 300 adds some nice equipment to the feature set." |
CarsGuide |
|
| "It's the template for a high-quality, well-specified and contemporary compact sedan (also available as a coupé, cabrio and wagon)." |
Practical Motoring |
|
| "On first glance it's the revised interior and larger infotainment screen that are the more appealing aspect of a luxury sedan that is perfectly at home being driven sedately around town or for relaxed country cruises." |
Engine and performance
There are five engines on sale: a 2.0-litre petrol engine (introduced in Q3 of 2019, this engine comes in three different tunes, including a hybrid model), a 2.0-litre diesel, a 3.0-litre V6 petrol or a V8 4.0-litre petrol twin-turbo.
Mercedes-Benz 2.0-litre petrol engine
The engine fitted to the C 200 model is a straight-four petrol engine, with a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. It produces 150kW of power and 300Nm of torque. Capacity measures 1,991cc.
Evidently, the same engine is also employed under the bonnet of the C 300 and C 300 e. However, in those models, it makes more power. The C 300 has a maximum power output of 190kW and 370Nm. The plug-in hybrid C 300 e puts out 155kW and has 350Nm, with a 90kW electric motor.
Mercedes-Benz 2.0-litre diesel engine
The sole diesel engine in the C-Class line-up, this 2.0-litre diesel four-pot has an actual capacity of 1,950cc. It has a turbocharger and is a direct-injection type engine. With this model, the C-Class develops 143kW and 400Nm.
Mercedes-Benz 3.0-litre diesel engine
If you want something a little more lively, the AMG C 43 could fill that niche. With a 3.0-lite V6, bi-turbos and direct-injection, this block pumps out 287kW and 520Nm. This C-Class is the only one matched with all-wheel-drive.
Mercedes-Benz 4.0-litre petrol engine
For the out and out petrol heads, Mercedes offers up an additional AMG-ified model in the C 63 S. This variant gets one of the legendary and widely used Benz 4.0-litre, bi-turbo V8 petrol engines. Power for this engine makes it a beast, measuring 375kW and 700Nm. This AMG model is rear-wheel-drive.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class transmissions
The C-Class comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission, called the 9G-TRONIC. It's also used in the S-Class and E-Class, as well as some global market Nissan Navaras.
Car reviewers' impressions of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class engine and transmission line-up
It seems that many of the most recent reviews of the C Class had the pre-Q3 2019 1.5-litre hybrid-equipped model. If you're looking at a demo model with this engine, reviewers said it generally performed beyond their expectations. However, many noted that the powertrain displayed a tendency to be slightly tentative and gentile, but overall, their findings indicate it was a worthy and smooth pairing for the high-end sedan.
Moving on to the current generation of engines, testers of the 2.0-litre petrol variants stated they were strong, yet relaxed. That makes sense, considering the segment it's operating in.
As for the C 300 e PHEV model, one motoring journalist labelled it the crowning achievement of the range. Set to Sport mode, they said this model was fiery and a blast to drive. Writers loved that the power hits instantly.
We couldn't find any reviews of the diesel engine C 220 d, but knowing Mercedes and judging by the figures, it should be a decent performer, offering the most economical motoring of the non-hybrid C-Class models.
The C 43 has an engine that is described as dynamic and smooth, often trademarks of a petrol V6. Reportedly, it's punchy and eager but obviously isn't quite as raucous as the fully-fat V8 AMG. Still, it's officially only 0.6 seconds slower than its more powerful sibling, clocking a 4.7-second dash to 100km/h.
The C 63 is, as you can imagine, a bit of a brute. One reviewer said it ticked all of their boxes: expertly elegant, unexpectedly revvy, with an epic soundtrack and incredible turns of speed.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class engine and transmission figures
C 200, C 300 | C 300 e | C 220 d | C 43 | C 63 S | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Engine type | Direct injection, turbocharged | Direct injection, turbocharged, electric motor | Direct injection, turbocharged | ||
Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | AWD | RWD |
Engine size/displacement | 1,950cc | 2,996cc | 3,982cc | ||
Fuel type (according to Green Vehicle Guide) | Petrol, 95 RON | Petrol, 95 RON | Diesel | Petrol, 95 RON | Petrol, 98 RON |
Cylinders | Six, vee | Eight, vee | |||
Fuel tank capacity | 66 litres | 50 litres | |||
Max power | 150kW @ 5,800-6,100rpm (C 300 - 190kW between 5,800 and 6,100rpm) | 155kW (plus a 90kW motor) @ 5,550rpm | 143kW @ 3,800rpm | 287kW @ 6,100rpm | 375kW @ 5,500-6,000rpm |
Max torque | 300Nm from 1,600-4,000rpm (C 300 - 370Nm, from 1,800 to 4,000rpm) | 350Nm between 1,200 and 4,000rpm | 400Nm between 1,600 and 2,600rpm | 520Nm between 2,500 and 5,000rpm | 700Nm from 2,000-4,500rpm |
Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.0L/100km | 2.1L/100km | 4.7L/100km | 9.4L/100km | 10.4L/100km |
Acceleration (0-100km/h) | 7.7 seconds (C 300 - 5.9 seconds) | 5.4 seconds | 6.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds | 4.1 seconds |
Emissions standard | |||||
Top speed (km/h) | 239km/h (C 300 - 250km/h) | N/A | 240km/h | 250km/h | 250km/h |
Security | |||||
Transmission | |||||
Towing capacity |
Mercedes-Benz C-Class fuel economy
Here's how fuel-frugal the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is.
2.0-litre petrol engine
According to the Green Vehicle Guide, a government-run fuel economy comparison site, the 2.0-litre petrol engine used in the C 200 and C 300 uses:
- Combined: 7.0L/100km
- Urban: 9.6L/100km
- Extra: 5.5L/100km
Using those fuel economy digits, if you were to cover 14,000km in a year, with 66% on urban roads, your petrol bill will be approximately $1,769.
2.0-litre diesel engine
If you want to save money, the diesel engine should cost just over $1,000 a year in fuel (based on the above-given usage criteria). Official fuel economy figures are as follows:
- Combined: 4.7L/100km
- Urban: 5.5L/100km
- Extra: 4.1L/100km
2.0-litre petrol PHEV
This is the ultimate C-Class if you want to save money on fuel and have an electric-only range of 52km. If you had a commute that was 26km or less, you could be doing it for free! Yearly fuel costs will sit around $659 for 14,000km, with two-thirds built-up area driving.
- Combined: 2.1L/100km
- Urban: N/A
- Extra: N/A
3.0-litre petrol AMG
OK, this model is never going to drink petrol conservatively – it is a performance model after all. Fuel costs per year, using the above numbers, would be around $2,391.
- Combined: 9.4L/100km
- Urban: 13.1L/100km
- Extra: 7.2L/100km
4.0-litre petrol AMG
Fuel costs and economy are probably very low down on the list of considerations of buyers who want the sheer power of the V8 AMG model. With that said, expected annual costs at the servo would be around $2,733. Official fuel economy figures are:
- Combined: 10.4L/100km
- Urban: 14.2L/100km
- Extra: 8.1L/100km
In theory, yes. However, in practice, manufacturers have to follow a strictly mandated testing procedure to determine fuel usage. As a result of the unwavering conditions, the brochure numbers don't always represent real-world driving. On public roads, things like traffic, weather, vehicle load and wear state, and even driving styles can all impact on the amount of fuel burned.
Handling
Buyers of a Merc are going to have some preconceptions about how a luxury German sedan should handle. Mercedes tailors the line-up to offer everyday executive commuters to more thrilling sports models. Basically, there should be a C-Class to suit anyone.
The C 200, as the entry model, is reportedly relaxing and laid back to drive, without ever getting lazy or vague. The testers seemed to conclude that the C-Class is geared more towards a comfortable ride, but manages to retain reasonably taught handling. Selecting a stiffer suspension setting does apparently give the car a bit more of a direct and firm feeling. Most testers suggested that German rival, BMW, had engineered its 3 Series more engagingly, but that the C-Class tackles roads in a confidence-inspiring manner nonetheless. Part of the reason for this is the supposedly more pliant Mercedes suspension.
Reportedly, the diesel model is a great all-rounder, again taking a casual and less rushed approach to handling, something that on public roads is all you ever truly need.
The C 300 turns things up a notch, with power underfoot. Journalists said this was a bit of a sleeper, with bags of vigour available for overtakes and long-distance highway motoring.
The plug-in hybrid model comes with air suspension as standard and motoring journalists said the car was well worth buying for this upgrade alone. Reportedly, the set-up smoothes out bumps where other C-Class models would become unsettled. When you go looking for curvy roads, the C 300 e has a level, reassuring confidence about it, stated one tester.
The C 43, having an AMG badge, means it receives an arsenal of performance components. There's AMG RIDE-CONTROL sports suspension, 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and AMG speed-sensitive sports steering. Testers were full of praise for the engaging steering feel, excellent grip and jumbo brakes. They described this model as a sprinter wearing a suit – it looks professional but is quick and agile when you need it to be. They also mentioned that the C 43 was probably a bit more daily-driver material than the outlandish C 63 S. Generally, the C 43 sounds like it is nicely balanced and dignified.
Finally, the AMG C 63 S. This C-Class is the most powerful and the fastest on sale. One tester felt it was perhaps a little too eager, especially considering this car is rear-wheel-drive, making it interesting trying to transfer all the power to the road. To some drivers, this car will be viewed as having a fun and lively character; to less experienced drivers, it might be slightly daunting. If you wish, it is possible to spin up the rear wheels and leave tyre smoke hanging in the air, such is the might of the C 63 S. There's even an electronic rear locking diff to help make things even more fun.
As you can imagine, the suspension set-up on this model is tight and firm, making it respond more readily in corners and to steering inputs. One journalist said that even when you select comfort mode, the dampers are still quite rigid, so in town, it could be a bit of a bumpy ride. Steering is said to have an endearing heavy feeling, adding to the sensation that the C 63 S is a snarling brute.
To sum up, most reviewers felt the non-AMG C-Class are competent and solid, without wowing, while the AMG models are way more fun to drive
Interior and equipment
The C-Class interior was favourably judged. Journos said the C 200's interior was very agreeable and generally held it as a progression over the last generation. Journos liked that the car now receives dual screens, a 12.3-inch display for the driver's instruments and a 10.25-inch for housing the infotainment centre.
As you'd rightly presume with a luxury vehicle, the interior is very well specced, even in the range-opening C 200. Journos perceived a very high level of build quality and finishing. One tester pointed out all interior materials were of a high calibre, matching the C-Class's elegant and refined image. Control gear and switches apparently all operate in a solid and reassuring manner, adding to the quality feel. In fact, the quality was an overall key selling point.
Some experts found the combination of complementary interior trim accents pleasing. Mercedes' synthetic leather, ARTICO, also got a mention. It seems it's a very convincing alternative to the real deal. The expert panel also commented on the longevity of the vinyl material, saying it was super hard-wearing.
The cabin appears to be nicely apportioned, with liberal amounts of space up front. The C 200 seats are supposedly somewhat firm, but comfortable over long periods. There's also a generous number of storage bins, cup holders and cubbies.
In the rear, the clearances were described as highly passable, even for adults. As always, the transmission tunnel makes any middle seat occupiers sit akimbo, but overall it seems the back is decent. One tester stated it was amply apportioned, though if the front occupants shifted their seats back then things cramped up a bit. One tester also believed the seat bases in the second row were on the short side, making them less comfortable.
The C 43 is described as a driver's cabin, with everything seemingly biased towards the person at the wheel. In this model, you can expect the sports seats to be contoured to provide more support and grip, to help keep you in place at potentially more forceful speeds. These models still represent a usable level of practicality as everyday drivers, according to the testers.
The C 63 S is also reportedly more comfortable than you'd imagine. Testers appreciated the AMG steering wheel, but were less keen on the control buttons, preferring the older dial and tab layout.
The C-Class was also praised for its number of safety assists, as well as the extensively adjustable ambient interior lighting – which has an overwhelming 64 different options!
In terms of cargo space, the boot of the C-Class measures from 435 litres on the C 200 and C 63 S, to 455 litres on the C 300 and C 220 d. If you need more room then you'll want to look at the wagon (which Benz calls an estate, hinting at its Euro origins). The sedan's numbers are pretty much on par with premium segment rivals.
To sum up the comments of the reviewers, the C-Class, in whatever guise you go for, is well made and built to exacting standards.
Mercedes C 200 and C 220 d equipment
The C 200 and C 220 d share the same fitout.
From the dealer, you'll get:
- Three-spoke, Nappa leather (with touch control buttons)
- 64 colour interior ambient lights
- ARTICO, synthetic leather
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Piano Black/aluminium trim pieces
- Indicators with one-touch function
- Electrically adjustable front seats, with electro-pneumatic lumbar support
- Electric park brake
- 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats
- Mercedes-Benz badged, illuminated front-door sill panels
- Keyless starting
- Four power windows with one-touch control
- Front and rear reading lamps
- Rear armrest with twin cupholders
- Reverse camera
- Black roof lining
- Steering wheel shifter paddles
- Stowage compartment in centre console
- Illuminated sun visors with vanity mirrors
- Dual-zone A/C climate control
- Trip computer
- USB port rear
- Velour floor matting
- Windscreen wipers, with rain-sensor and one-touch wipe
- 9-speed automatic gearbox
- Active Parking Assist with front and rear sensors
- Agility Control suspension
- Dynamic Select with five driving modes
- LED high output headlights with Headlamp Assist
- Cruise control with variable speed limiter
- Eco stop/start
- Power adjustable, folding and heated mirrors with integrated indicators
- Heated rear windscreen
- 12.3-inch instrument display
- 10.24-inch media display, touchpad control, AM/FM and DAB+ radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, USB connectivity
- Mercedes me connect, with navigation, safety service (with a vehicle tracker, theft notification and park damage detection, plus others), Comfort, remote vehicle info, infotainment (with Amazon Alexa and Google Home voice assistants)
The safety assists and security equipment are extensive:
- Active bonnet
- Active Brake Assist
- Adaptive brake with hold function, brake drying mode and Hill Start Assist
- Nine airbags
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Maintenance interval indicator
- Attention Assist
- Automatic-locking doors with emergency opening
- Blind Spot Assist (passive)
- Brake Assist System (BAS)
- Brake pad wear indicator
- Central locking with interior switch and crash sensor
- Crash responsive emergency lighting
- Electronic immobiliser
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with acceleration skid control (ASR)
- Audio and visual verification
- Run-flat tyres
- Tyre pressure warning system
- PRE-SAFE accident anticipatory system
All in all, it's a pretty impressive spec list.
Mercedes-Benz C 300 spec list
In addition to the C 200 and C 220 d models, C 300 buyers receive:
- Leather upholstery
- Dark-tinted privacy glass from B-pillar backwards
- Keyless-Go with hands-free access, power boot opening and keyless entry/start
- Driving Assistance Package, including:
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
- Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- Active Lane Keep Assist
- Pre-Safe Plus, collision detection
Mercedes-Benz C 300 e standard equipment
The C 300 e PHEV is based on the C 300. Buyers will receive pre-entry climate control and AIR BODY control suspension.
Mercedes-AMG C 43 spec list
The C 43 builds upon the C 300 model, with:
- AMG Nappa leather performance steering wheel, with a flattened bottom
- AMG stainless steel sports pedals
- Analogue clock
- Open-power Black Ash wood/aluminium trim
- Dashboard upper in ARTICO
- Floor mats with AMG lettering
- Head-Up Display
- Heated front seats
- Front seats memory function with three settings and exterior mirrors
- Sports seats for front occupants
- Wireless phone charging
- AMG RIDE-CONTROL sports suspension
- AMG speed-sensitive sports steering
- MULTIBEAM LED Intelligent Light System
- Panoramic glass sliding sunroof with sunblind
- 590W Burmester surround sound with 13 speakers and amp
- COMMAND infotainment system with high-res media screen and 3D map display
- 360° camera
- Anti-theft alarm with tow protection and interior surveillance system
- Driver Assistance Package PLUS, with:
- Active Lane Change Assist
- Enhanced automatic re-starting in traffic jams
- Route Based Speed Adaptation
- Sports braking system
- Tyre repair kit
- Traffic Sign Assist
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S highlights
The C 63 S improves upon C 43 C-Class, with the following extras:
- AIR-BALANCE interior cabin with improved air filtering and oxygen ionisation
- AMG illuminated front-door sills
- AMG black Nappa leather / DINAMICA microfibre performance steering wheel
- AMG-specific analogue clock
- AMG steering wheel buttons
- Nappa leather upholstery
- THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control
- AMG Track Pace
- Digital TV Tuner
- AMG electronic rear-axle differential lock
- AMG high-performance composite brakes
- AMG red brake calipers
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT-MCT 9-speed sports transmission
Mercedes-Benz C-Class safety, security and driver assists
C 200 / C 220 d | C 300 | C 300 e | AMG C 43 | AMG C 63 S | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Airbags
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Active bonnet | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Active Brake Assist | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Adaptive brake with hold function, brake drying and Hill Start Assist | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
ASSYST maintenance interval indicator | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Attention Assist | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Auto-locking doors with emergency opening | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Belt tensioners with belt force limiters and belt guides for front passengers | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Passive Blind Spot Assist | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Brake Assist System | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Brake pad wear indicator | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Central-locking with interior switch and crash sensor | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Childproofing for doors and windows | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Crash responsive emergency lighting | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Electronic immobiliser | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Boot first-aid kit and warning triangle | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Visual/acoustic central locking verification | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Run-flat tyres | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
TIREFIT with electric pump in place of MOExtended run-flat tyres | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
PRE-SAFE accident anticipatory system | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Two safety vests | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Tyre pressure loss warning system | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Auto-dimming rearview mirror | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Reversing camera | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Rain-sensing windscreen wipers | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Front and rear parking sensors, with Active Parking Assist | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Adjustable exterior mirror with power-folding and heating | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
KEYLESS-GO hands-free access, automatic boot closing, keyless entry and start | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Driving Assistance Package:
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Head-Up Display (HUD) | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
4MATIC all-wheel-drive | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ |
AMG speed-sensitive sports steering | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
MULTIBEAM LED Intelligent Light System | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
360° camera | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Anti-theft alarm with tow-away protection and interior surveillance system | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Driver Assistance Package PLUS:
| ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Sports braking system with larger brake discs | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Traffic Sign Assist | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Tyre pressure monitoring system | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
AMG high-performance composite brakes | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Mercedes-Benz C-Class interior and comfort features
C 200 / C 220 d | C 300 | C 300 e | AMG C 43 | AMG C 63 S | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nappa leather, three-spoke multi-function steering wheel (with control buttons) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
AMG Performance Steering Wheel, Nappa leather with flattened bottom section | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ |
AMG performance steering wheel in black Nappa leather / DINAMICA microfibre | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Ambient interior lighting with 64 different colours | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
ARTICO synthetic upholstery | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Leather upholstery | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ |
Nappa leather upholstery | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Black piano lacquer/aluminium trim | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Black Ash open-pore wood/aluminium trim | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Directional indicators with one-touch convenience function | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Electrically adjustable front seats with electro-pneumatic lumbar support | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Heated seats | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Folding rear seat backrests (40:20:40 split) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Illuminated front-door sill panels with "Mercedes-Benz" lettering | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
AMG illuminated front-door sill panels | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Keyless start function | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
KEYLESS-GO with hands-free access, automatic powered boot closing, keyless entry and keyless start | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Power windows (four) with one-touch control | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Reading lights (front and rear) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Rear armrest with twin cup holders | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Roof liner in black | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Steering wheel shift paddles | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Stowage compartment in centre console | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
THERMATIC dual-zone automatic climate control | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ |
THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Pre-entry climate control | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
AIR-BALANCE with oxygen ionisation, improved air filtering | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Trip computer | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
USB port rear | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Velour floor mats | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
AMG floor mats | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Windscreen wipers with rain sensor and one-touch wipe function | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
AGILITY CONTROL suspension | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
AIR BODY control suspension | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
AMG RIDE-CONTROL sports suspension | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
DYNAMIC SELECT with five driving modes | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
12.3-inch instrument display | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
10.25-inch media display | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
590W, 13-speaker surround system by Burmester | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Touchpad control | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Bluetooth connectivity | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Media interface with dual ports in centre armrest | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Mercedes Me Connect: Navigation, Safety and Service, Comfort and Infotainment | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
COMAND Infotainment system, high-resolution media screen, fast hard-disc navigation with 3D map display and LINGUATRONIC | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Dark-tinted privacy glass from B-pillar to rear | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Heated front seats | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Analogue clock | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ |
AMG-specific analogue clock in IWC design | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Memory function for front seats with 3 settings and exterior mirrors | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Wireless charging system for mobile devices | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
AMG speed-sensitive sports steering | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Panoramic glass sliding sunroof with electric roller sunblind | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
AMG steering wheel buttons | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
AMG Track Pace | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Digital TV tuner | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Mercedes-Benz C-Class exterior highlights
C 200 / C 220 d | C 300 | C 300 e | AMG C 43 | AMG C 63 S | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
18-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels | ✔ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
19-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
AMG 19-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels, bi-colour | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ |
AMG 19-inch cross-spoke forged wheels in matte black with high-sheen rim flange | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Aluminium roof rails (Estate only) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
LED high-performance headlamps with Headlamp Assist | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
MULTIBEAM LED Intelligent Light System | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Twin louvre radiator grille with chrome inserts | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Charging cable with plug Type 2 (7 pin), 4m long | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
4MATIC all-wheel-drive | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ |
AMG body styling | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
AMG Night package comprising striking design elements in black | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Metallic paintwork | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Sports exhaust system | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ |
AMG performance exhaust system | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
AMG active dynamic engine mount | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Rear wheel drive | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✔ |
AMG high-performance composite braking system | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
AMG red-painted brake callipers | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Verdict
The C-Class, no matter the variant, appears to cater to all tastes. There are sensible luxury sedan models, in the C 200, C 220 d and C 300, there's a hybrid in the C 300 e and then there are the two AMG fire-breathing monsters in the C 43 and C 63 S. While reviewers sometimes indicated that the C-Class didn't do everything quite as well as some of its rivals, they did acknowledge that it's a very well-made, decently handling, practical high-end sedan.
If you're in the market for a luxury, premium or performance sedan, you have to at least test-drive a C-Class.
Also, take a few moments to compare car financing below; you could save hundreds of dollars on a Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Compare some options to finance a Mercedes-Benz C Class
Pictures: Mercedes-Benz
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