Overview & Reviews

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, or the "Baby Benz" as it is affectionately known, has been a favorite of entry-level luxury/sport sedan buyers for years. More than just a small sedan with a few three-pointed stars thrown on it, the C-Class provides the core strengths of the brand, such as cutting-edge safety features, lively performance and a feeling of solidity. Fans of ultra-high performance have been thrilled by the AMG versions, which boast blistering acceleration and tenacious handling along with tastefully sporty styling accents.

Style plays into the equation of the small Benz's appeal as well, with the C-Class drawing inspiration from bigger Benzes. The front and rear fascias are instantly recognizable as part of the Mercedes family. In the recent past, the cabin of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class wasn't up to the car's traditional standards in terms of quality, but Mercedes has rectified the situation on the latest generation of the car.

Current Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available in five trim levels that correspond to powertrain: C250, C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG and C63 AMG Black series (coupe only). The C250 and C300 are further available in Luxury and Sport sub-trims, which share engines but differ in exterior styling elements, suspension tuning, interior trim and front seat design.

The C250 comes with a 201-horsepower, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that returns 25 mpg combined. Every C-Class comes standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with the exception of the C300, which comes with "4Matic" all-wheel drive attached to its 228-hp 3.0-liter V6. The C350 gets a 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 that still manages 23 mpg combined.

The C63 AMG has a 6.2-liter V8 good for 451 hp, or 481 when equipped with the AMG Development package. Other performance upgrades include a seven-speed automated manual transmission, a wider front track, revised steering and suspension, meaty 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes and aggressively bolstered seats. There are also noticeable exterior styling differences. The C63 AMG Black Series coupe goes even further with these performance upgrades and gets a 510-hp version of the same AMG V8.

Standard or optional equipment is extensive on the C-Class, and indeed many of the upscale luxury, convenience and safety features available on more expensive Benz models can be had on the C-Class. A similar sentiment applies to this car's level of engineering, craftsmanship and interior quality, as you rarely get the impression you're getting a lesser Mercedes just because you purchased the cheapest one.

In reviews, we've been very impressed with the current Mercedes-Benz C-Class, especially in light of the many positive improvements made for 2012. Whether you're looking for a comfy, extensively equipped luxury sedan or a dynamic, impressively engineered sport sedan, the C-Class has you covered throughout its range. Highlights include its diverse engine lineup, meticulous construction, refined ride and handling and good fuel economy. Cons include a relatively small backseat, all-wheel drive being available on the C300 and the fact that you have to pay a bit more for such engineering excellence. There are several incredibly impressive competitors that are also worth a look, but in total, we think any C-Class will stand tall in this very tough crowd.

Used Mercedes-Benz C-Class Models
The current third-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuted for the 2008 model year, and, with the exception of some extra equipment, went largely unchanged through 2011. In these first four model years, the C-Class was available as a sedan only and lacked the C250 model. Originally, the C300 came standard with rear-wheel drive and 4Matic was an option -- its output was the same as it is currently. The C350 produced 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, an output that trailed most of its competitors. Fuel economy was also worse than the current model. The C63's engine hasn't changed, but the transmission was originally a seven-speed traditional automatic.

Compared to the current model, the 2008-'11 C-Class' exterior styling was slightly different, particularly the front end, while the interior also differed. Although still quite nice, the overall design had less of a premium appearance, with less wood and metal trim present, and more black plastic. The dash was also dominated by a central panel that lifted up upon engine ignition, revealing either an LED radio display or a larger, pop-out navigation screen. The actual electronic controls, however, have largely remained the same.

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuted in 2001 and lasted until 2007. Mercedes made a variety of changes to the numerous models and body styles during the car's lifespan. The initial models were the C240 (168-hp V6) and C320 (215-hp V6) sedans. These were joined the following year by a C320 wagon and the C230 Kompressor two-door hatchback coupe (192-hp supercharged four-cylinder). The C32 AMG also showed up for 2002 fitted with a 3.2-liter supercharged V6 producing 349 hp. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system became available for 2003 on sedan and wagon body styles, while the C320 two-door hatchback, C240 wagon and supercharged C230 sedan arrived. A variety of Sport upgrades debuted for particular models for 2004, while the following year saw freshened exterior styling and a revised interior. The C32 AMG was also replaced for 2005 with the C55 AMG, which featured a 362-hp V8.

The biggest changes occurred for 2006, when the hatchback coupe and wagon were discontinued and a new selection of models and engines debuted that would remain with the car until it was replaced by the current C-Class. This was also the first year for the Sport and Luxury trim designations, which differed in wheel size, transmission choice, suspension tuning, styling elements and interior trim. The C230 Sport (201-hp V6) and C350 Sport (268-hp V6) were joined by the C350 Luxury (same engine as Sport) and the C280 Luxury (228-hp V6). 4Matic all-wheel drive was available on Luxury models.

Those considering this generation Mercedes C-Class probably won't regret their purchase, as there should be more than enough performance and luxury to satisfy them. As with the current model, savvy shoppers should know that other automakers, particularly those from Japan, offered roomier, less costly alternatives that equal or better this C-Class in performance and features, although certainly not status. This C-Class didn't exactly hold its value well, so there are certainly deals to be found. However, given the staggering amount of model designations, body styles, engines and feature content, it's important to make sure you know exactly what you're getting in a used C-Class.

The original Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuted in 1994 as a replacement for the small 190-Class sedan. With more room, a more luxurious cabin and styling that mimicked the larger E-Class, the first C-Class could be had with four-cylinder (C220) or six-cylinder (C280) power, with output ranging from 148 to 194 hp. There was no wagon offered at all during this generation's run (1994-2000). Safety has always been a priority with Mercedes, and as such the C-Class benefited from the early adoption of such technologies as stability control, emergency brake assist and side airbags. Performance of the base C rose through the years, as the 2.2-liter four gave way to a 2.3-liter, which was then replaced by a 2.3-liter supercharged unit.

The hot-rod AMG versions started in 1995 with the C36 that featured a 268-hp inline-6. Serious firepower arrived in 1998 with the debut of the C43, whose 4.3-liter V8 pumped out 302 hp. Die-hard enthusiasts should know that only automatic transmissions came with the AMGs, though this hardly hurt the performance of these fast little sedans.

Either way, used-car shoppers should know that the Mercedes C-Class historically scores well in crash tests, and ownership satisfaction is generally quite high, with consumers praising its handling, ride and reliability. However, maintenance is typically costly.

User Reviews:

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  drive - 1996 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Jacqueline parks - February 25 - 6:10 pm

  I felt I had to spend too much money on the C 220. I had always wanted a Mercedes and I decided to try this one. I kept it this long because I kept thinking it would last a few more years.I guess I expected more out of the car than what it really was worth. I had bought Toyotas in the past.I still like the body style and design but wished it would have been more durable.It drove good on the highway. The seats were not as comfortable as I would have like them. Maybe I should have tried the 320 but I cant afford the 320. Oh well I enjoyed it while it last now I am going to buy a car that hopefully is more durable.

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  Solid car - 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By JulesH - February 23 - 12:50 am

  Car seems to have much more HP than advertised. Engine lot of torque at low RPM, transmission always find best gear. Its a great car for normal driving, its only when you floor it that you realize it has only 220hp. Very solid chassis, good handling, nice ride. Interior is very high quality. Lumbar adjustment and center console opener bit hard to reach. 09 has pelvic airbags, memory seats, power adjust. steering wheel, but no power fold in mirrors. Tech. in car is very advanced and very easy to use. Stereo is excellent. Ipod works great. Navi will give street names in center of speedometer. voice contrl.Front end low, easy to scrape. Car needs very little maintenance, interval is 10k.

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  Will buy another one for my hubby! - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By ppbw123 - February 19 - 9:53 am

  This is the first MB Ive owned. Ive enjoyed every minute and every situation of driving this car. Now that the snow tires are put on, the MB winter driving proved much fun and saver than my other light-weight car in the house!

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  1996 c-220 - 1996 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By j stringger - February 17 - 10:00 am

  very nice styling bought it for 12300 so far so good ...car is very quiet and runs like a top (87000 miles on it)

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  Disappointed - 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By dmatuszak - February 17 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has been nothing but problems after month 12 of ownership. I have been to the dealer 15 times in the past 2years to fix electrical issues. Will never buy another MB.

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  PERFECT 10 (Forget the BMWs) - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By MKNMOVIES - February 17 - 10:00 am

  Dont buy this CAR! I love it soooo much that when I see another one it just drives me crazy. Fast, confident, sure footed, amazing design and is by far the best Car on the road. I spent Four months test driving everything in its class. I was careful about buying my car. Soon it was clear. Nothing else even came close. (Not even the BMW 5 series)

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  Power and Looks - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By JLA - February 17 - 10:00 am

  A great looking car with power to spare. A little expensive and maybe a little smaller than youd like but with the Mercedes reputation for quality. I have not had to put a dime into the car for 3 years and the Mercedes dealers are a gems. You get treated like a SL500 owner. Definitely worth upgrading from the 240. I own a BMW 325 also. No comparison. With the 325 you have to upgrade to get close, with the 320 its all standard. Even then the power comparisons for the BMW fail big time vs the Mercedes.

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  Fun to drive, some problems - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Nicole K - February 17 - 2:55 am

  Car drives very smoothly and has a luxurious feel. The interior is nicely designed and you get used to the gear shifter really quickly. The touch pad is not very intuitive. Ive had problems with the sunroof and door rattling as well.

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  Tire eater from hell !!! - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Doctor Tire Eater - February 16 - 11:15 am

  I bought this loaded 2015 c 400 with 9oo miles from the local Mercedes dealer on December 31, 2016 for $41k. A good deal, but...It eats front tires to such a degree that I now regret buying it. As usual for the C 300 class, the front tires are smaller than the rear so you cant rotate them. At 8500 miles the front tires were worn out. These Continental run flats cost $675 for two of them. The luxury and power are seductive, but the relentless depreciation and high maintenance cost make me wish I would have just bought the juvenile Subaru WRX or super juvenile ( according to my wife) WRX STI. I like driving in the mountains twice a week but the maintenance costs of my C 400...really all Mercedes...make me regret purchasing them. If I drove in the mountains daily, I probably would only get 5,000 miles out of them!

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  Beautiful Car - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Thurmond - February 10 - 9:36 am

  I wanted a classic black MB that I could keep for a long time. This truly is one. I love the iconic look (double round headlights)of the car like a classic MB. The car is incredibly smooth and fun to drive. I took it in for service and was given a new 08 C300 to drive. It feels/looks like a Chrysler 300 on the inside...cheap cheap cheap. What was MB thinking. I couldnt be happier in my 3 year old MB which feels like a real MB compared to the new ones.