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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  Expected Better from Mercedes - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Dan - April 14 - 4:01 pm

  Weve had the car a little over a year and bought it in large measure on the strength of the Edmunds review, which gave it an A rating. While the car has some nice features, it also has some that leave you shaking your head. Were not sure why Edmunds gave it such a high rating, it probably deserves a B- instead. On the positive side, the car is beautiful, comfortable, performs well, gets outstanding gas mileage and is fun to drive. On the negative side of things, the overly complex entertainment/climate control system is maddening. Even after a year, I have no idea how to find a radio station outside of the presets the salesperson helped me program when we first bought it. There are three levers on the left side of the steering column - turn signal, cruise control and steering column adjustment. Too many times Ive turned on the signal when I meant to adjust the cruise control, and vice versa. Very clumsy design. The other real negative is the lack of a spare tire. Weve had two flats in the year weve owned the car, which is way more than weve experienced before. In both cases, the drive-flat tires were ruined and had to be replaced at a cost of over $400 each time. Even worse, a flat tire with this car demands your immediate attention, which is a real pain in the rear. No matter what else youre doing at the time or where you are, everything has to be put on hold until the tire gets fixed. Gone are the days that you could put on the spare and go about your business and get around to fixing the flat at a more convenient time. And if it happens on a weekend, the car is pretty much out of commission until Monday.

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  Mercedes C240 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Jungmel - April 14 - 2:00 am

  Car was purchased by my wife. It is not too big to handle in small spaces. The car performs well and has very good acceleration given relatively low horesepower. It handles almost as well as our BMW 326ic with more comfort and more amenities. It holds four adults comfortably and the trunk is big enough for two sets of golf clubs and some luggage. My opinion is you get a lot of car for the money and this car is underrated....or more appropriately..never rated. Why they call it a 240 I will never know..it has a 2.6 liter engine. Perhaps they were afraid of a lack of marketing distinction between the 240 and the 320. This car is solid.

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  Quick and Fun For Less - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Kennyboy - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Great experience with this car. People stop and ask me about it all the time. Mines is Blk w/ Blk int. Hard to keep clean but worth the headache. Had an early problem with the SRS light coming on with in the first two months, but other than that worry free! I would recommend it to anyone looking to get into something sporty, good on gas and affordable. Oh yeah and A MERCEDES!!!

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  Mercedes Benz C350 Sport AMG package - 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By ck - April 6 - 11:00 pm

  I first saw the C350 on TV late 2007 i wanted to trade in my 05 C230 for a new car. I was also test driving 3 series BMW, Saab, infinty g35 and even the Nissan 350Z a much sportier car. I tallied up the plusses for each car including the c350 to come up with the best decision, by this time I have test driven all cars including the Benz which was stuningly beautiful in person.. The ride interior quality, over all quality, styling, mpg w/c is fairly good. And room. The Benz was the clear choice. On top of that I added the amg package, navigation, Sirius, oh and I have a 4gig hardrive pcmcia which was hard to find. I dont have to use my ipod no more. Best deal for the buck

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  Review for Mercedes C240 - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By sandra - April 6 - 1:33 pm

  I bought the C240 in Jan. 2005 and love it. It is a new vehicle with 6 miles to begin with on it. It is stylish and handles well. It is wider than the Volvo that I traded in and feels a lot heavier and safer to drive.The panel is clear and easy to follow/program. It is good in snow and severe weather which is why I bought it since I live in the mountains (Park City, Ut). It doesnt have the power that the Volvo S60 had but has more power than the C240 that I had in 2002. I am pleased with the car and the way it handles.

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  Less is More - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By lessismore - April 5 - 10:10 pm

  When I picked up this car the salesman said that Id be getting all the build quality and safety features of the very expensives MBs. I thought "sure". He was right. My other two previous cars had both been back to the dealer for repairs in the first six months. Not this one. Theres just something about a Mercedes that connects the owner to it. No wonder people keep them for years and hundreds of thousands of miles. Im still finding small features now even after 6 months.

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  Could have been a contender - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By idealrides - April 3 - 10:00 am

  I ordered my C32 after having seen only pictures of one from Europe, and after having enjoyed my 1999 C43 so much that I knew this new AMG was going to be the cats balls. I was a little disappointed, the steering is decent for a Benz, but it has a bit too much understeer out the box. Living in Boston, the car is very uncomfortable on imperfect roads, it just doesnt soak up bumps the way a Benz should. Its also had a big handful of small problems, too many for a Benz in fact.

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  The Enthusiast C320 Coupe Fan - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Laurenxesq - April 3 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my 2001 BMW 325i & 2002 C230 coupe for the new 2003 C320 coupe in 1/2003. I went in HOI in 1/2003 to check out the new C320 coupe. When I saw the xenon headlight & the 17 in wheel, I fell in love! After test driving the vehicle, I bought the car the next day.

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  amazing car, completley satisfied - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By prodigy1387 - April 3 - 10:00 am

  my parents bought the car back in march for my for my 16th bday (driving age in fl is 16) and id have to say im completely satisfied with it. yeah im probably a baby compared to most people on this site, but i still think my input couldnt hurt. the car runs great, i love hearing the engine roar from 4000 to 5000 rpms every so often, and i get lots of looks in it haha. i can definitely tell the difference between the 230 and 320 models, the v6 improves performance like no other - its a little rocket! id recommend it to anyone looking for a great car in this price range - i chose it over the audi a4, lexus IS300, and bmw 325i.

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  Good looking but a lemon - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Devan - April 2 - 3:30 am

  When I first got the car I fell in love with the way it handled, looked, and the gawking that I got from other drivers when they saw the big ol star on the hood. However this car is a true Chrysler product, I have owned it about a year and a half now, it has been towed in immobile three times, one time a pulley ceased, next time the electrical, most recent the "accelerator pedal" malfunctioned making the tranny immobile. After I purchased it I had problems with the sun roof not automatically closing as it was supposed to, took them six times in the shop to fix it. Anything to do to this car repair wise (oil, tires, brakes) is way overpriced. Disappointed with the car, thought it was better