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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  Edmunds review under value this car - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By hugobossmntw - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Visibility: 8 Rattles: 10 !! (Not a single rattle) Wind noise: 10 !! (This is more personal) Secondary climate Cntrl: 7 Build Quality : 10 !! (Every single control works on my car, not a signle scratch on the plastics) Cupholders: 6 (awkward a little).

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  Great car for the money - 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By alan - January 24 - 3:50 pm

  I have owned several MB before, but this one is a car that stands uo to a BMW in ride, and size. The performance is excellence as well as the handling. My car has two option the i-pod in the glove box a waste for me, but not my kids. Also the optional headlamps which are great for lighting your way. I strongly suggest this option for older folks, it help alot. So far the car is great, and the fuel economy is not bad either in the upper 20s combine with city and highway. This car is a lot for the buck, and truely a great value. This car car hums like a bimmer, and rides like a tank as a Mercedes should be.

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  Fun fun fun~! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By rib123 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Just got my baby C 1 week ago. Man, once I start the car, I dont want to get out. A lot of power for a small car, and the 2.3L eng. makes beauifull sound...

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  An automobile better than anyother. - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Bongome9169 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  We just bought the car acouple days ago and its amazin. Its cheap and perform the best. The stereo is a blast the speakers will blow u away. I like the sportish look to it. Its alil small that was the thing I dont really like bout it. So if your lookin for a family car go with the C320.

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  good car - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By EBdk - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Car is amall yet powerful, it blows out other car from the line up traffic light easilly.

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  A perfect mix of sport and luxury - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Luxury and Sport - January 19 - 6:00 pm

  This car is awesome! The handling is superb. The Kompressor engine makes the four cylinder engine feel like six. The interior design is very attractive and the exterior design is an attention grabber. This is the first Mercedes I have owned and it wont be the last. The sound system is impressive and Mercedes uses high quality materials in its interior. Dont miss an opportunity to test drive this car. Youll find that you are getting a lot of bang for your buck.

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  My Mercedes C400 is the Worst Car Ive Ever Owned - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Jennifer - January 15 - 3:57 pm

  Ive owned my Mercedes C400 for less than a year. Best car Ive ever driven. But like anything with astounding beauty and pedigree, its simply too high maintenance, too cold, and now, too unreliable to be practical. From issues with components not properly installed on delivery, door seals unraveling a week into ownership, two recalls, a lack of comfort in the cabin so extreme I don’t drive the car long distances, an engine stall in the street (sans key), service issues, and finally, total unreliability and failure; my C400 experience has been pretty disappointing. Id wait at least a few more generations before touching this model-- the glitches can be severe! Intuitive? Its smart enough to drive without a key within twenty feet, and stupid enough to stay in start mode and drain your battery, without any active attempt to start the car or even be present in the car for up to five (5) hours. How smart is that. Dont let your kids touch that button! I found out. After meter parking the car in NYC, and returning several times to re-load the meter and re-display my ticket inside the car’s dash window, locking the car every time, yet the car remained in active start mode until the battery died, with no error or warning message. Smart would be something different. If there is no active start (after pressing the start button) after a period of time--perhaps this super smart car should inform the occupant, via its intuitive messaging system (no one but Mercedes can decode your car— so they tell me-- hows that for transparency), that if no ignition is attempted within X period of time, the power will terminate, and preserve battery life. Now, that would be smart. The C400 is not that smart. At less than 3500 miles, the battery died and two attempts (one of which was by Mercedes) failed to remedy the problem without dealer interference, some 60 miles and three days away. Think about that. You are stuck in the middle of no where (to you, anyway), with a dead battery-- which can happen to anyone. Mercedes roadside assistance fails to charge the battery or offer any other diagnostics on the car, and leaves you to tow to their dealership, where only they can remedy the issue. Why? The C400 apparently needed an extra long charge, longer than another motorist, a tow truck or their own roadside assistance could seem to achieve when they attempted to jumpstart the car-- the electronics wouldnt even activate but to unlock the doors and leave them disarmed. A stalled battery is one thing-- and arguably my own fault. But who wants a car so smart it wont take a charge from anyone but Mercedes? While I believe the battery had, in fact, juiced itself into a coma, I also believe something went array with the car’s electrical and computer system, and the error was one that only Mercedes could clear. How’s that for holding yourself accountable. I had another safety issue with my Mercedes C400. One morning as I was rushing to work, I got in the car (kids in tow), started her up, and reversed into the street when the car stalled. Realizing I forgot my key, which was some twenty feet away, inside my house, it dawned on me how incredible it is that I was able to start my car and pull into a busy street, with no key in close proximity. After a recent trip to the dealership, this was corrected, it seems but the service manager refused to disclose it had been an issue to begin with. My dealership (the worst luxury dealer Ive ever encountered) insists there is nothing wrong with these cars and sales are robust, yet I have never seen another C400 on the road in my area. Seems to me Mercedes has some work to do in refining this model. I hope Mercedes will proactively recall any C400s with a safety issue and correct any defects in its messaging/electrical systems, if found, of course. Safety should be their top priority. Back to Audi. Tail between legs. Sigh. BTW, I offered my C400 back to the dealership (with less than 3500 miles). Not surprisingly, they passed.

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  Im lovin it. - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Walter - January 14 - 4:36 pm

  Ive had mine for over a month and 4500 great miles. I have had zero problems. The dealership is great. Very little road noise, great mileage, and very good looks. Love the stereo and the seats. This is an awesome car. 13000 mile oil change interval!!

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  Enjoying the machine - 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By GI Tiger - January 13 - 12:33 am

  This is my 2nd C class, I had a 2005 C230K, black on black, what a car. The styling of the newest C Class (300) series is exceptional. Mercedes has really stepped up to the plate on this machine. The seats are very comfortable, instruments cluster is easier to adjust and read, and the Blue tooth is fantastic, Im from California, hands-free law. aggggh! This auto is definitely a looker. The power plant is a hold over from the last couple of years but still has ample get-up and go for the weight of the car. The BMWs 3 series, are so plain and have no styling, boring. You will be much happier with this vehicle! I have the 18" AMG rims and low profile wheels.

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  Excellent Benz for the money - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By TURKSOLDIER - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I had this car two weeks ago, and it is a blast to drive it. Excellent power from the supercharged 4 cylinder. Quality interior finish.