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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  Bought A Lemon - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Bought A Lemon - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Bought (2002) car June 22nd-crappy right from start. Returned for bad air flow sensor-first week. Car died in in parking lot had it towed in-second week. Dealer kept car 34days. Called lawyer-third week. Car has been parked for 4 months. If you buy a c240 you will need a good lawyer.

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  My Benz - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Paul Heemskerk - April 22 - 3:50 pm

  I love the feel of the steering. i love the memory seats and steering wheel. The stereo sounds great and it looks so good in black. I have a 2004 Acura TL and this car is now my favorite to drive. Its not fast like my TL but the steering feel is much better. maybe because its rear wheel drive instead of friont drive. The car also goes over the bumps in the road smoothly. the car feels so solid. Wish it had a few more options for the money but still it is a great vehicle even if a little pricey for what you get in comparison to the Japanese cars.

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  Disappointed in Chicago - 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Disappointed Chicago - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car after driving a Volvo for 5years - the 850Glt. Went for the safety (eight airbags) and class of driving a MB product. I thought I was taking a step up...I was very mistaken. First the seat comfort does not nearly compare to the Volvo. Second the interior room - particularly the backseats - is terrible. Engine performance for price is lackluster. The Volvo850 GLT w/ turbo was the same price (year-on- year) and lacked about 30hbp. One did not feel confident accelerating onto expressways - particulalrly the Eisonhower and Edens in Chicago...The C240 is not worth it - PERIOD.

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  Guide Missile disguised as a Wagon - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By PMGURU - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Tested the G35, Passat GLX-V6, Volvo S/60, C240, C230K sedan and C320 wagon. Bought a 9 mo old dlr demo for less than Blu Book wholesale (had 10k miles on odo). Immaculate Body & interior. Power aplenty. Refined chassis & powertrain. Car exudes with understated luxury. Is roomy enough for 4 tall adults. Powerful brakes, better handling than sedan, quiet on highway. Extremely confortable on long trips. Had couple of minor issues w/ key release - fixed without questions by dealer. Fuel gauge went zero for 20 minutes. Again fixed by dealer. Road side assistance is impressive...Bub Bye AAA. 26mpg at 95mph. Bottom line. Its a Benz!

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  Black leather seats discoloring - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By anthony814 - April 18 - 3:29 pm

  I was about to enter my car this morning when I looked at the back seats I was shocked to see seats covered with white faded stains . Then I looked at front seats and saw the same . The back of both head rests are covered with same stains .Looks like mil dew stains. I was wondering if anyone else had same problem. I am shocked that this could happen to Mercedes benz .

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  Reliable and fun - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Jeff - April 9 - 11:10 am

  Ive had a 2005 C230 Sport Sedan for 2 years now and love the car. With the AMG styling and upgrades the sport sedan has its a real head turner. I have had zero problems with the car and I drive it about 30000 miles a year. Ive only brought it in for scheduled maintanence and had a couple recall problems fixed. Id buy this car again and would recommend it to anyone. My friend has a BMW 325xi and my Benz is much more fun to drive

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  I want my money back - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Mustang95 - April 8 - 10:00 am

  What a piece of good looking crap. We are in the process of trying ot get our money back. I have never owned a car with so many problems. Shock problems, electrical problems, broken plastic truck liner, sun roof sticking, rattles, We were looking forward to getting this car and now we look forward to getting rid of it.

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  Stunning But Big Problems - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By B. Dirnsa - April 7 - 11:16 pm

  Ive had my 2015 for a full year. This car is loaded, only a couple of options not purchased. Ive really put this car through its long distance paces. Mountain driving, desert driving. Trips as long as 15 hours in a single day. The car is stunning inside and out. Seats are very comfortable. Never got a sore back, even on those super long trips. Handling is excellent, as is the fuel mileage. The haptic touch pad is a pain in the you know where. I just ignore it. Big problems with repairs, including a rear master seal leak on the transmission, a defective home link system (mirror assembly replaced), a plastic part breaking inside the front passenger door causing the door handle to come off, and several other problems. Fortunately all warranty. Consumer Reports rightly gives it a solid black circle, its lowest reliability rating. Has some crazy quirks with navigation software. For example, if I want turn by turn directions, the nav screen does not show the upcoming turn, but the second and third turns. That makes it confusing and useless. MB corporate knows about this and they agree that is how it functions. Ive been waiting for a map update to fix this and other nav problems. Still waiting. July 2016 UPDATE: I have the base car, not the 4matic. OEM Pirelli run flats. Just over 18,000 miles on the car. Front tires have 70% tread left. The rear tires, for this rear wheel drive car, have have only about 8,000 miles left. I will have to replace the rear tires after about 25,000 miles. Cost out the door at Costco will be over $500 for the two tires. The tires are regularly rotated and properly inflated. The tires are wearing evenly. There is no misalignment issues. December 2016 UPDATE: The car is still a joy to drive. This year since my last update, I drove the car in one day over 500 miles from my home to high altitude in the Sierra Mountains and back. Superb gas mileage--34 mpg overall. Coming home (where I had the downhill, I got 37 mpg). Wonderfully comfortable seats. No back pain. The car remains stunning inside and out. Nothing in its class compares, especially the inside. The new Audi A-4 lags. Next year, BMW will release its redesigned 3 series. Time will tell. Downside: Ongoing mechanical problems, mostly small, but still . . . Yep, I had to replace two tires after 24,000. Almost $500 out the door, a little cheaper than I thought in my last update. In my original review I wrote about poor navigation software performance, which corporate confirmed. Although with my lease I got free navigation updates, there have been no updates in the two years Ive had the car. The software problems persist. The climate controls are a bit anemic. There is a 10-20 second lag from the time I set the fan (heat or a/c) until the fan fully kicks in. The a/c in hot climates (I live in an area where this past summer there were several 100 degree days) is OK and kept me reasonably comfortable, but the a/c is not as powerful as Lexus or Infiniti (Ive had both makes). I have one year left on the lease, then I will need to make a decision whether to turn in the keys or buy the car. The upside is the cars design and luxury, best in class by far, handling, comfort and gas mileage. The big downside is the mechanical problems. While the car is in warranty not a cost issue, but Benz repairs are very expensive once the car is out of warranty. This is huge. Then there are those awful run flat tires, which make for a less comfortable ride and very short tread life. Sadly, they are becoming common in luxury cars, although the new Audi A-4 has a compact spare. Right now, if I had to make a decision, Id turn in the keys. If the car was as reliable as any of the several Lexus Ive had, Id get it and live with those awful run flats, but the continuing mechanical issues probably not. Fortunately, I have a year to make my final decision.

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  5 out of 18 months in the shop - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Michael H - April 7 - 10:52 pm

  My car was rear ended. Parts had to come from Germany. 2 months and one more to repair the car. Ordered every option. 19 of them. The ventilated leather seats are horrible. The leather is worse than an Honda Accord. The distronic plus works only on occasion. Radio stop working and 5 months later finally getting another one. Mileage at 55 MPH an amazing 44 Miles per gallon. Ive had 3 recalls , 3 pressure gauges replaced. Run flat tires are horrible. In talks with MBUSA on lemon law. I traded a 2009 C with every option and 95,000 miles for this one. Worse mistake ever.. Update. I have had to hire a law firm. The car has been in service now 48 days. Its going in again for electronics problems. Im fighting MB on the Lemon Law. They offered 2500 off of any new car I wanted of theirs and thats it. The lemon law is 30 days and they have to return the full amount. I will never own another MB product as long as I live. I hate their product. I changed from using Helms Bros in Bayside, NY to Ralleye Motors in Roslyn. Both places are awful. I took my car into Ralleye because my rear sensors were not working right. They said the car was in an accident and needed $1800 worth of parts to repair the problem. I called the collision place who said bring the car in. I did and 2 days later it was perfect and has been. Centain cell phones have a software problem with the Bermeister radio now in the MB. The cell phone will make the radio and GPS inoperative. You have to turn off the phone to recycle it. When I went to Ralleye with the problem they chased me out. I then went to the service manger Doug and he said because I did not allow them to repair the car the last time I was not welcome there. I asked him would you spend 1800 + on the repair if it was still under warrenty and he said no. I then asked why I cant come in and he said I dont want you here. Ralleye is so large that they feel they are like GOD. I would never recomend them to anyone again ever. They are awful. Oh, one more thing. They charge $168.00 per hour to work on your car if its out of warranty.

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  Wonderful Auto - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By William Wood - April 6 - 11:40 am

  From the drive away from the dealer, we have enjoyed every moment. We were Toyota Camry fans but now there is no way we would give up our MB.