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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  Awesome car - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By underwhirled - August 31 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased this car, and have loved every minute of my driving time since!

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  Sorry, Lincoln and Caddy; 20K update. - 2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By kkear3 - August 29 - 7:44 pm

  Just had 20K "B" service performed and so far, the car is just about perfect. The windshield wipers needed replacement at $63 for the pair but it takes longer to open the box than it does to put them on. The Michelin tires are wearing like nails: I made sure my car did not have Contis on it when I bought it from my horrible experience with them on my Jaguar X-type and Mitsubishi 3000GT. Mileage continues to improve and is now at 24.8 mpg average with most of the driving at 40-45 mph on rural back roads. Still no regrets about not buying the cramped, noisy Caddy CTS or the econobox-based Lincoln MKZ.

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  MB 230 COUPE WITH AUTO - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By baddog5309 - August 25 - 10:00 am

  i have experienced no problems with the Vehicle for the first 5000 miles of ownership combines outstanding performance with great milage and plenty of room inside for a 6.5 footer weighing 240

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  C-300 Sport Great Value - 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By san356 - August 23 - 11:48 am

  I just turned in my 2010 E350 Coupe for the C300 Sport 4Matic for weather issues. While it doesnt have the speed of the E350 (which of course, it is not meant to), it is spry and actually more fun to drive as the car has no blind spots and you can zip in an out of city traffic with ease. (I am 5 3" and can see over the roof.) I love it!!! Great traction on wet roads and the ECO option and the gas mileage are added benefits. Kept the same Panoramic Roof and stero system as I had in the E350. Couldnt be more pleased. I came from having BMWs and Volvos and Mercedes does it right!!

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  Excellent road car, poor reliabilty - 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Sam Julier - August 16 - 8:23 pm

  Car driven all highway miles. Excellent engine and drive train. Quiet interior, low wind noise. 32 mpg w/ 6spd. Solid handling and tracking, supurb braking. Very high frequency of maintenance and expense compared to previously owed Volvos. Parking brake failed 3x, climate control 2x (and never the same as new), teleaid 1x, CD player 2x, both rear coils cracked 1x, strut bushing replaced 3x, fuel line clogged 1x, keys 1x, turn signal harness 1x, light harness 1x, oil level sensor 1x, ignition Lock and Steering Lock 1x, ELT connector 1x. The amount of service necessitated selling the car. It is a huge dissapointment as the car is a joy to drive.

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  A car named Desire - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Tarun - August 14 - 6:26 pm

  Excellent driving pleasure with pleasing exteriors. Responds to control very well. Superior acoustics and a 6 change CD player make driving fun. Besides, the dealership is excellent with tremendous post sales follow up. In fact, that was the major deciding factor as the Lexus and BMW salespersons were so lacklustre in their sales pitch that I was apprehensive if they would have any post-sales interest in me at all. However, still feel I was slightly overcharged for the car so go with the invoice and dont budge while bargaining.

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  near-perfect - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By antul - August 14 - 10:00 am

  incomparable safety with flawless engineering makes for a perfect car under $40,000.

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  excellent excellent car - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By anjeer - August 14 - 10:00 am

  very good car overall. Definately beats the bimmer 325ci hands down. Good power plenty room, cool cool pano roof and good stopping power

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  Good looking, horrendous quality - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By KenS - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Quick, responsive, fun to drive fast or slow. Lots of wow factor for passengers (voice command, navigation). Integrated phone is very handy. Great dealership and service, too bad I am there all the time. What have I had replaced in the past year? Keys (5 times), floor mats, purge valve, a/c controls, voice command (3 times), rear seat belts, drive train shudders, pneumatic seat pump, phone, shifter trim, washer/turn signal stalk (3 times), washer pump (4 times), cd changer, driver seat frame, seat memory, mildew, outside mirror malfunction.

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  Great deal - 1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By professordavid - August 7 - 10:00 am

  Slick, comfortable, and responsive vehicle able to grip road, drive elegantly while responsiveness of a sportier vehicle. Never have had a major repair -- only minor glitches detected by computer, or fragility of a cup holder..