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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  Retension belt - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By RogPark - June 30 - 2:03 am

  I had this car for less than one year, enough time for me to have all sorts of service issues. I was sold this car as a "certified" vehicle which is marketing bs talk for "used" car. In a nutshell, I had problems with the retension belt. I drove 8,000 until the belt had to be replaced. I argued that this is something that needed to be covered under warranty and even the Benz service guy agreed. It wasnt so I had to shell out $440. I bought a Hyundai Vera Cruz at about the same time as the C280. Im on the verge of exchanging the C280 with a Sonata. Ata least my expectations wont be high with a Sonata.

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  Engine Problems-cam shaft adjuster - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Mike Richards - May 27 - 1:28 am

  Costly repair popped up right after 50,000 miles (right after the warranty expires). Repair is going to cost over $4K. MB has problems with this issue. It seems similar to the issue in the class action from 2012 in Northern District of California.

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  Never buy this car - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Melissa - February 8 - 12:20 am

  I bought this car with 50000 miles on it. I drove it off the lot of the whole sale dealer and the day after started having problems. It may be because its used and I dont know how the person before me treated the car. Ive had the car for a year and put over $4,000 into it already in repairs. As soon as its fixed something else seems to go wrong. Not to mention the gas mileage is terrible!

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  A lemon with a good engine - 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By sonet - October 23 - 8:30 am

  The car was good when it was new. Then everything started to good bad. Audio system went bad several times. Transmission went bad. Sun roof malfunctions. Paint faded badly. Side moulding turns from black to tan. ESS went bad. Brakes vibrate a lot. The dealer was not able to fix this yet for the past 4 years. Gas mileage is way less than what was advertised. Lots of noise on bumpy roads. Engine is loud. Speaker went bad several times. Heating is slow. Vent solenoid went bad several times costing almost $1000 for each visit. CD Changer went bad twice. Turn signal bulb blows out too frequently. Cup holder gets stuck. More room is needed. Electronic diagnosis need to be more accurate. Cost me money.

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  Lemon Law Mercedes - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Bruce Flannery - July 24 - 2:00 am

  My wife has always wanted a Mercedes- Benz, so we purchased a new 2002 C-320 in October 2003. During the first month it has been in the shop on 2 separate occasions for multiple repairs for approximately 2 weeks. All repairs have been electronic in nature. This is a very sophisticated vehicle and I find many of the features very distracting when driving. The dealership has, at no charge, provided Mercedes-Benz loaner vehicles, extended the warranty 1-year and refunded our first months payment. I have owned many vehicles during my life, and this is by far the poorest quality car I have ever purchased.

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  ugh - 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By junnah - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Multiple design flaws and even more build execution flaws: seats that go back and wont come up, groaning suspension, air vents to the windshield that do nothing but create condensation,poor quality paint, impossibly complex climate controls, even more impossibly complex key to seat setting control requirements................all exceeded by a service department that really doesnt seem to know what theyre doing, loaner cars with NO gas and rarely cleaned, blah blah blah. The sales rep (Calvin) was great; he is, unfortunately all too peerless. Im off to pick up a Lexus GS300; never should have strayed from the proven Japanese brand.

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  Very disappoited. - 2000 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By DiasppointedEddie - July 7 - 10:00 am

  Im very disappointed of the quality of the car and the dealer service. The dealer has been incompetent in fixing the noisy problem when the wheels are being turned, for 3 times over 10-month period. How much more headache do I have to endure? Who hired all those skilled mechanics? Lexus, I bet.

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  Over rated - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By RWM - April 26 - 4:50 am

  I purchased the C230 Sport Coupe to replace a 2000 Mitsu Eclipse. Big mistake. The Benz has a pretty face, but is a dog to drive. With a slow- shifting transmission and poor cornering,the fun-to-drive factor is on a par with an inexpensive Japanese or Korean car. Quality is a concern also, with problems with the SRS system; alignment; rattles etc. Last week I cut my losses and traded for a 2005 Honda S2000, which is getting about the same mileage. With the car being over-rated and over-priced, I wouldnt recommend a Benz to anyone at this point!

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  Dont Bother - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Rick Marques - April 19 - 10:00 am

  After waiting over twenty years to buy my first Benz - finally getting one was an underwhelming exercise in futility. This is a TERRIBLE car, built like any other Pinto, Gremlin or Vega - HONESTLY. Bad build quality, rattles, squeaks, LOUD when driving it, alignment that cant be fixed, a transmission that cant be diagnosed, and a Corporate Office that refuses to deal with customers on ANY level whatsoever. I was told their Director of Customer Assistance does NOT read, or answer his mail, nor will he contact any customers. THIS is Mercedes Benz? THINK TWICE IF YOU ARE IN THE MARKET FOR A BENZ.....

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  Biggest pile of crap I have owned! - 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Tim - April 6 - 2:44 am

  Had the car coming up on 1 year. I have 6400 miles. The 1st week I owned the car driving 80mph down the expressway the power steering went out. The car had to be towed to the MB Dealer. A month later the sunroof would not close (it started to rain) again back to the dealer. 5 months in the sunroof broke again. This time I told the dealer last straw fix this thing or take the car back. Tomorrow I take it in again for a knocking sound when you turn. Also the sunroof is now once again broke. Previous I had a E-350 and had no problems. This 2015 C-300 has been a huge disappointment. For the money MB commands this is just unacceptable.