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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  Be aware - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Angry mb owner - April 12 - 3:11 am

  I leased my car in September from mercedes of brooklyn. 1 week later the main screen broke. In the shop for 5 days. Three weeks later front right headlight went out. Another 4 days in the shop. When drive in sport plus mode when gears shift vibration sounds from passenger side rear end. Was told its normal. Then two months no issues. Then the real fun began. Steering was off and making whining sounds. Needed a whole new power steering unit. Then the sunroof broke and wouldnt close from vented position. Brought the car in April 29 multiple conversations with service waiting for parts. Every week I was told a couple days more. 3 months later parts finally arrived. Now trying to get out of my lease all together and go back to infiniti.

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  Watch out! Benz not what marketed... - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By jonatan - March 27 - 4:50 pm

  I purchased this car used for 15,500 in Feb. 2007 with only 40,000 miles on it. It handled well but sucks gas like you cant believe. It doesnt help that every trip to the station requires 93 octane either. Regardless, 13,000 miles later (3000 off warantee) one morning, a complete suprise, the engine begins to shake. I take it to get the oil changed only to have the entire car give out 30 mins later. I had it towed to the dealership to find out that 2 pistons were bent 5 totaling a bill of 4800.00 dollars. This isnt the first time Ive heard of this happening since I bought the car. Maybe thats why they stopped making this model?? left me with 8000 neg. equity for my next car. Thnks benz

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  CAUTION - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Steve - February 7 - 4:20 am

  Looks can be deceptive. The C230 is a very good looking car. I have owned this car for two months, and unfortunitly, so far the bad out ways the good. At 1200 miles the car has been to the dealer twice for the same items (trans slip, & gas mileage) Expect city mileage around 13 to 16, and maybe 25 on the highway if your going downhill. Gas mileage is a really big issue because performance of the C230 does not overcome the poor gas mileage, far under advertised. Would I buy a BMW 3 Series over the C230, probably not, but yet again I probably would not buy another Mercedes based on my current experience.

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  Very Poor Value - 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Jake MeHoff - January 1 - 2:58 am

  First, I will say this car looks pretty nice, and handles well, but thats about it. The seats are hard as rocks, and extremely uncomfortable on a long trips, regardless of the adjustments. The floorboard appears to go down at an angle, so I couldnt even get my feet in a comfortable driving position. Access is very poor, with the seating very low, and with trying to wedge between the steering wheel and the B-Pillar. The controls are horrible. Instead of knobs, there are very small levers for everything, and they are all the same size. Why would a "sync" button be the same size as the blower control?! I set my favorite radio stations, but havent figured out how to get back to my list of favorites for the last 6 months. When I try to change stations, it seems to jump back and forth between satellite radio and FM. The "advanced electronics" try to tell me to rest when I am not tired, and beep at me when there is nothing in the road. At 6,000 miles, I was left stranded when my serpentine belt jumped off, and the car overheated. I found out that run-flat tires cant be repaired, so a nail cost me $420 for a new tire at the dealership. I had a 2014.5 Toyota Camry prior to this, for 38,000 miles before my wife totalled it, and would gladly take another. It was inexpensive, comfortable, easy to operate, and it NEVER needed repairs. Not to mention it was much roomier. I will be very happy to end my lease of this C-Class.

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  Wind Noise---Room situation - 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Troy - December 3 - 7:20 pm

  This is a car that I purchased for my wife, who had been driving a 2002 Audi A6. I realize this car is smaller and not designed to compete with the A6 (even the older 2002 Audi A6), however, things that she and I both notice everytime we drive it on the highway is the wind noise emulating from the winshield. In snow (we have 4Matic) it doesnt handle like the Quatro A6 shed grown to love...not even close...the back seat room is limited to children (no way 4 adults will be comfortable on a trip in this car. Lastly, the dash (she has the pop up nav screen version too) lacks style...it looks "american," and is outclassed by the new Cadillac CTS that it competes with...thats a first!

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  sick of Mercedes - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By cheapBenz - April 6 - 10:00 am

  In shop for warranty work @ 7000, 12000, 17000 miles and heading back @ 28000 miles. Factory tires wore out at 22000. Sunshade and sunroof problems. Noisy brakes. No power brakes upon cranking. Items replaced so far: front sun visors, wipers, steering wheel switches, vent grille, front & rear sunshade, cd player. I have a BMW 325 with 33000 miles, tires still in great shape, NO PROBLEMS EVER! When I asked dealer why tires were wearing so fast and so irregular, they stated this car will just do that! Would have traded long ago but obviously dealers know this is a CHEAP MADE car. Resale/ trade value is horrible.

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  Sport Sedan Dreams - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Chip - January 9 - 3:23 pm

  If you are looking for a true sports sedan, do not buy this vehicle. It will leave you feeling disappointed. This car has spent more time at the dealership than my garage, and left my wife and I with a total lack of confidence in Mercedes-Benz. I will never purchase another product from them!

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  Youve been warned! Dont buy it! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By RLee - November 24 - 10:06 pm

  I bought this car when gas prices were $4 a gallon in Texas. It looked nice, drove well, got good gas mileage and had very low mileage. I thought it would be a great little car for my 75 mile daily round trip. I paid what I thought was a fair price, and my bank even offered to finance more. Since my purchaser, I have replaced or repaired the following (at 29,000 mi): brakes, alternator, radiator, blinker (and not just bulbs-housing), had major electrical problems, automatic rear passenger door, front passenger seat module (drained battery), CD player no longer works, sunroof just went out last week,drivers seat no longer works, steering control no longer works, another blinker went out . .

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  Problems and problems - 1999 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By laurent2 - October 4 - 11:30 am

  Got this car and was really happy at first. During the winter the wiper motor broke. Replaced at 1700$. 6 months go by, the motor breaks again. Dealer says the motor broke because the mechanism broke first, No warranty. 1700$ again. Sent letters to the dealer and straight to MB Canada. Big step from them if they even acknowledged my request of refund. MB should really do something about their customer service. They might be selling cars, but they sure dont keep their customers.

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  they went from good to bad - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By sdjkhfjk - August 24 - 10:00 am

  i have allot of problems with mine it stalls at all different times.. they are still unable to fix it after 4 months of the problem and 5 trys