Once celebrated as a best-seller, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has solidified its position as a reliable member of the brand’s lineup, albeit not the headline act.

Please note: This is an updated edition of a review initially published in June. There have been no significant alterations to specifications over the last six months.

Key details, including updates on pricing and specifications, have been refreshed in this version. For the original review, click here.

WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C300 Sedan

In today’s automotive landscape, the iconic Three-Pointed Star’s mid-size executive sedan often takes a backseat to its GLC and GLE SUV counterparts, frequently trading blows in sales with the more compact A-Class range.

The latest (W206) iteration of the C-Class, which debuted in Australia in 2022, reflects a streamlined approach consistent with the rollout of Mercedes-Benz’s agency model. Significantly, prices have surged as well.

The Mercedes-Benz C300 Sedan commands a hefty price point of $96,900 before on-road costs, representing a $6,500 increase in recent years—pushing it over the $100,000 mark when considering additional packages and options.

With sedan sales in a slow decline and the equivalent GLC300 SUV priced nearly $10,000 higher than this mid-tier C-Class, one must question whether this luxury mainstay warrants attention.

Despite its mild electrification and intensifying competition from an array of affordable electric vehicles, the C-Class still possesses unique qualities appealing to the typical Mercedes-Benz clientele.

How does the Mercedes-Benz C-Class stack up?
Explore a comprehensive comparison against similarly-sized vehicles.

When it comes to pricing, the C300 Sedan has seen another increase of $1,000 in the last six months, now listed at $96,900 plus on-road costs.

  • Mercedes-Benz C200 Night Edition: $86,900
  • Mercedes-Benz C200: $91,400 (+$1,500)
  • Mercedes-Benz C300: $96,900 (+$1,000)
  • Mercedes-AMG C43 Edition R 4MATIC: $112,600
  • Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC: $140,600 (+$1,700)
  • Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance 4MATIC: $190,900 (+$3,000)

Consequently, potential owners will find themselves exceeding $100,000 for the C300 before even considering color or package options. For context, its rival, the BMW 330i, begins with a $4,000 advantage ($92,900).

For an in-depth look at how the C-Class fares against competitors, use our comparison tool.

Interior Features of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Stepping inside the C-Class reveals a visually appealing cabin, impressive with its expansive displays and flowing dashboard design. The modern aesthetic is a significant upgrade from its predecessor.

However, a closer inspection reveals a prevalence of fingerprint-prone glossy black surfaces and a selection of harder materials in lower areas of the cabin. Moreover, some had difficulty with the sliding drawer on the center console, which has exhibited sticking and squeaking issues.

Positioned ahead of the driver is Mercedes-Benz’s latest steering wheel, featuring double-decker touch-capacitive spokes and a substantial perforated Nappa leather rim. Unlike some other interior elements, this component radiates a superior, forward-looking feel.

Yet, the new controls can be somewhat perplexing. Their unconventional shape and limited control zone may lead to inaccuracies, steering away from an otherwise enjoyable experience.

For example, adjusting the adaptive cruise control entails a diagonal swipe across an arched surface, resulting in frequent miscalculations, whether overshooting or simply mispressing.

Behind the steering wheel awaits a freestanding 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, echoing the unmistakable Mercedes-Benz aesthetic. The MBUX 2.0 system hosts an extensive variety of layouts and widgets derived from the S-Class.

True to expectations, the graphics are sharp, with smooth refresh rates. It maintains a distinctive personality compared to rival digital dashboards while offering nearly limitless configurability.

Front-seat comfort is commendable, thanks to well-padded sports seats with standard electric adjustment and memory settings in the C300. However, the footwell offers little breathing room; those with larger feet may find it cramped against the interior’s plastic linings. Similar space restrictions were noted in my tests of the GLC and E-Class.

The crowning jewel of the interior is the striking 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system, which protrudes from the center console as though Mercedes-Benz has affixed a tablet to the dashboard.

Equipped with the MBUX 2.0 interface, the system allows for over-the-air software updates and features a fingerprint scanner reminiscent of smartphone technology. It’s an improvement over earlier iterations; the larger display integrates climate controls, resulting in a more user-friendly experience. While you can spend hours exploring its menus and settings, navigation is simpler than in prior versions.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, with the former functioning effectively during my test drive, despite occasional dropouts in known connectivity black spots across Melbourne. The bundle also includes connected services and DAB radio.

While classified as a mid-size vehicle, the C-Class and its rivals have not traditionally excelled in terms of rear passenger space. However, the new C-Class does provide somewhat more room than its predecessor, thanks to an additional 25mm in wheelbase.

At 6’1″, I found adequate space behind my driving position, but for those seeking opulent accommodations, the more spacious GLC SUV may be the better choice.

Standard amenities in the back include rear air vents, a fold-down armrest equipped with cupholders, map pockets, and door bottle holders—all par for the course. However, it’s disappointing to note that a third zone of climate control is not offered on non-AMG C-Class models.

Kids will be comfortable, particularly in car seats, with ISOFIX anchor points available for both outboard seating and top-tether points across all three rear seats.

The C-Class Sedan boasts a boot capacity of 455 liters, unchanged from the previous model.

Unfortunately, the C-Class Estate variant has been removed from the Australian lineup. So if you’re drawn to the C-Class but require extra luggage space, the GLC becomes your go-to option.

Similar to its predecessor, the rear bumper’s design leads to a relatively high loading lip. However, the boot itself is fundamentally wide and square-shaped.

The C-Class lineup is equipped with run-flat tires across the board, meaning no spare wheel lies beneath the boot floor. Models equipped with the 19-inch AMG alloy wheels, like the one tested, are provided with a repair kit and air compressor instead.

Specifications Overview

Mercedes-Benz C300 Sedan

  • Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo-petrol 48V MHEV
  • Power: 190kW @ 5800 rpm
  • Torque: 400Nm @ 2000-3200 rpm
  • Transmission: 9-speed automatic
  • Driven Wheels: Rear
  • Tare Weight: 1744kg
  • 0-100 km/h: 6.0 seconds (claimed)
  • Fuel Economy: 7.3L/100km (claimed), 8.1L/100km (as tested)
  • CO2 Emissions: 164g/km (claimed)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 66 liters
  • Octane Recommendation: 98 RON premium unleaded

How does the Mercedes-Benz C-Class perform on the road?

While the C300 brags outputs rivaling that of hot hatches and features AMG-inspired styling, it doesn’t quite embody the essence of an AMG model.

Mercedes-Benz appears to prioritize comfort in its current offerings, and the C-Class channels more of an E-Class or S-Class vibe than a direct competitor to the BMW 3 Series.

With a robust 400Nm available from 2000rpm and a 9-speed transmission at its disposal, the C300 favors a smooth, effortless ride over aggressive performance.

Gentle driving reveals an enjoyable and serene cruising experience; however, under harder acceleration, you may question the advertised 0–100 km/h time of 6.0 seconds.

The ride quality remains plush, particularly when set to Comfort mode, delivering pleasant rebound characteristics. The car exhibits a degree of lean in corners even while in Sport mode.

All controls are light and heavily assisted, which simplifies everyday commutes but sacrifices a sense of engagement and tactile feedback.

This focus on comfort and refinement aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s brand philosophy. For those seeking a luxurious driving experience without feeling overly connected to the road, the C-Class excels.

The 2.0-liter petrol engine runs quietly, becoming more expressive only during vigorous acceleration. While not as loud as other low-end Mercedes models, it also lacks the melodious quality of the BMW 330i.

Notably, the 48V mild-hybrid system smooths the transition when employing idle stop-start functionality, restarting the engine seamlessly. That said, this system does not seem to maintain shut-off periods at stops for extended periods, potentially undermining its benefits.

The test vehicle lacked the Plus Package, missing out on a complete suite of driver assistance features available on the C-Class.

Adaptive cruise control functioned adequately, although it did not include a traffic jam feature in its basic form. Additionally, while the C300 can alert the driver to lane departures, it does not actively maintain lane positioning without opting for additional features.

Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are practical integrations, along with the standard surround camera system. However, it is frustrating that a vehicle surpassing the $100,000 mark does not come with a more comprehensive driver assistance package as standard.

The standard LED headlights with auto high beam perform well, while Mercedes-Benz’s adaptive high beam technology—available only with the optional Digital Light headlights—improves visibility on poorly lit regional roads.

For comparisons to how the C-Class stands against its rivals, refer to our comparison tool.

Standard Equipment and Options

The C-Class is available solely as a sedan in Australia, offering two non-AMG variants.

Standard features for C200 and C300 may include:

Exterior
  • AMG Line exterior
  • Agility Control suspension (lowered)
  • 19-inch AMG multispoke alloys (bi-color)
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Metallic paint (excluding Manufaktur)
  • Ambient lighting with logo projection
  • Power-adjustable, folding, heated exterior mirrors
  • Keyless-Go (keyless entry, auto boot)
  • LED headlights
  • Adaptive High Beam Assist
  • 360-degree camera
  • Tirefit repair kit
  • Tire pressure monitoring
  • Panoramic sliding sunroof
Interior
  • AMG Line interior
  • Sports front seats
  • Anthracite Linestructure Lime Wood trim
  • High-gloss black center console
  • Ambient lighting plus
  • Artico upholstery
  • Black roof liner
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror
  • Electrically adjustable front seats
  • Memory Package for front seats
  • Heated front seats
  • Folding rear seat backrests (40:20:40 split)
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • MBUX 11.9-inch multimedia system
  • MBUX Navigation Premium
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
  • DAB+ digital radio
  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
  • Wireless smartphone charging
  • Mercedes-Me Connect
  • Head-up display
  • USB Package
Available Option Packages

The C200 and C300 have one primary option package:

  • Plus Package: $6,900
    • Driving Assistance Package Plus
    • MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation
    • Digital Light (Adaptive headlights)
    • Burmester 3D surround sound system
    • Urban Guard vehicle protection
    • Heat and noise-insulating acoustic glass

Additional options include:

  • Manufaktur paint: $1,500 (Patagonia Red Bright Metallic, Opalite White Bright Metallic)

Explore our comparison tool to learn how C-Class measures against its rivals.

Safety Ratings and Features

The C-Class boasts a five-star ANCAP safety rating, derived from Euro NCAP tests conducted in 2022.

Safety Ratings Breakdown

  • Adult occupant protection: 91%
  • Child occupant protection: 90%
  • Vulnerable road user protection: 80%
  • Safety assist: 84%

Standard safety features include:

  • Ten airbags, including a front-centre airbag
  • Active Parking Assist
  • Adaptive cruise control (Distronic)
  • Adaptive High Beam Assist
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Parking sensors (front and rear)
  • Rear cross-traffic assist
  • Surround camera system
  • Traffic sign assist

Features included with the Plus Package consist of:

  • Driving Assistance Package Plus
  • Active Lane Change Assist
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
  • Adaptive High Beam Assist Plus
  • Evasive maneuver support
  • Pre-Safe impulse side
  • Route-based speed adaptation

For comparisons to see how the C-Class measures against competitors, explore our comparison tool.

Cost of Ownership for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz provides a five-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty for its range in Australia.

Service and Warranty Information

  • Warranty: 5 years, unlimited kilometers
  • Roadside assistance: 5 years
  • Service intervals: Annually or every 25,000 kilometers
  • Capped-price servicing for up to 5 years
  • Total capped-price service cost: $6,015 over 5 years

Expert Perspective on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

There’s a certain sense of underwhelming familiarity with some of the latest offerings from Mercedes-Benz.

While the emphasis on comfort and refinement, coupled with sleek technological enhancements, marks a natural evolution for devoted Benz enthusiasts transitioning from older models, the value proposition raises concerns.

The C300, starting just over $100,000 drive-away even before accounting for options, feels exorbitant—particularly when just a few years ago, that price bracket sat at the AMG C43 level.

Furthermore, the absence of a comprehensive driver assistance package as standard is disappointing given the vehicle’s price tag. The removal of the Estate model is another setback for those seeking more cargo space without the elevated cost of a GLC. Additionally, the uniformity in C-Class aesthetics, with no non-AMG Line variants available, leaves would-be owners with less choice.

Fortunately, Mercedes-Benz Australia has announced the arrival of the plug-in hybrid C350e Sedan, anticipated for the first half of 2025. This new model will integrate the C200’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a 95kW electric motor, achieving total system outputs of 230kW and 550Nm.

Powering a sizeable 25.4kWh lithium-ion battery beneath the boot floor, the C350e is projected to deliver an impressive electric range of over 110 kilometers as per WLTP testing, although the pricing details remain uncertain.

If you’re considering the C-Class, the cost-saving of choosing the C200 until the C350e arrives may be worthwhile, particularly with the new optional driver assist suite.

Interested in acquiring a Mercedes-Benz C-Class? Reach out to one of our trusted dealers today.

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Source:www.carexpert.com.au