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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  Performance Decrease for 2006 - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Aaron - December 19 - 11:10 am

  I assume it was for "Marketing" purposes but starting 2006, Benz is putting a 6cyl just breaking that "magic barrier" at a reported 201HP. Well I just traded my 2004 C230 Kompressor in for a 2006 that I had ordered. It was the first 2006 C230 to be delivered so I hadnt driven a 2006. Big Mistake! There is a significant perforance drop compared to my 2004 even though it has a reported 189 HP, but I think the key is there is less torque on the new 6 cyl compared to the 4 cyl.

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  Love My Car! - 1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By LJonesy2 - December 19 - 6:00 am

  I love my Mercedes-Benz C 230. It is my first car and I could not be more happy with everything. It is a great ride, very dependable, fast, and comfortable. The interior is cozy and roomy enough for all my friends! The features are fabulous and I enjoy the interior layout. The car runs great and gets great gas mileage (32 hwy). The pedals are touchier than a Lexus, but it was easy to get used to that. I commute to school and I dont mind the drive now! I am very happy with this car and plan on being a loyal Mercedes-Benz customer due to their high quality and expertise in luxury.

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  Wifes Benz - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By ARBO - December 19 - 2:00 am

  Safety and the Mercedes name are what brought me to this car. We like the car except it lacks comfort for long trips. Our hind ends go from pain to numb after a couple of hours in the car. Also, we find the climate control to be confusing to figure out. And make sure someone cramped into the rear seat gets fair warning before you turn of the car, the front seat will be coming back into their knee space automaticaly.

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  A DREAM COME TRUE - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By PENICHET - December 16 - 10:00 am

  THE SPORTS PACKAGE IS THE BEST $3010 I HAVE EXPENDED; IT BRINGS TOGETHER COMFORT & EXCITEMENT. THIS IS A SOLID CAR, AND EVEN WHEN THE V6 HAS LESS HP THAN THE 4CYL SUPERCHARGED IT FEELS STRONGER AND MORE REFINED.

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  geno - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By gnadelman - December 13 - 10:00 am

  First day.I very empress. My last car was A6-2.7 T. 2001 model. My least was 36m -$ 610.01per months. My new MB 39months-$366.04.Performance 100%.I will rec. this car. I loved. Good luck.

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  ade1 - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By adeade - December 13 - 10:00 am

  exterior design is superb gives a sporty feeling

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  An excellent car that holds up well... - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By guile - December 12 - 10:03 am

  My car has been with me since brand new, now going on 142,000 miles and counting. Issues have been catalytic converter (under warranty), front headlights, steering linkage break, serpentine belt replacement (at 130,000 miles), leather interior cracking, faux leather on shift knob coming off, CD changer jamming, blower fuse melting and compressor breaking, and small ghosting on console display. Performance is decent for a car with 168hp. Gas mileage could be better but I drive like a maniac with quick acceleration so no fault of the car. Im pretty satisfied with the car and feel fortunate I dont have the issues so many others have. This car was manufactured in Brazil.

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  GREAT CAR! I LOVE IT! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By bck113 - December 10 - 2:00 am

  I just got my new 2003 C240 about a month ago and absolutely love it! I was getting this car for my first car so i needed a car that was going to last me through high school and all of college. Im so glad I got this car, it looks great, performs well, and is extremely high quality. I havent had any problems yet. Many people love to compare the BMW 325i and the MBZ C240, yet i think they are incomparable. My brother just got a 325xi and they are both awesome cars, just differences in style. If you are thinking about getting this car, you will not be sorry. I love my C240 more and more everyday.

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  Beautiful, but a bad "investment" - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By MRR - December 6 - 7:04 am

  Beautiful car with a great interior design with superior materials. Performance on the road is first rate. Like all Mercedes, the command and navigation systems remains second class. If you get a C-Class do not get the sport package or AMG package unless you like buying tires and having regular alignment appointments. Six tires in my first year, and now the car is in the shop having the engine replaced. Resale value is deplorable.

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  Very impressed - 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Jay - December 4 - 1:56 am

  This is my 3rd MB. I have the sport package, Auto with the multimedia option. Amazing sound system and overall a very fun car to drive. By far has been my favorite car Ive ever owned. For the money, the C class provides everything I could imagine. The car feels and looks much more expensive than it is. In my opinion the body style is more appealing than any 60K dollar car Ive seen on the road. Its eye catching, I get tons of compliments and is a true joy to drive to work and back everyday. Im amazed at some of the other reviews Ive read bashing this car. I cant find one thing I "hate" about this car.