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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  No Dream Come True - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Bernd - June 23 - 8:23 am

  This was my first car. Im in high school and even though Im young I love and research cars nonstop. It was my dream car until about a month ago. My sunroof cable broke and that was the only part that the extended warranty didnt cover. Less than a week later, my engine started shaking and the check engine came on. Took it in and there is a flaw with Mercedes and something in the cylinders can get stuck open and dont bet on your insurance/warranty place to cover anything. Cost for new cylinder: $5000. Too much maintainance, in shop too much, need a more reliable car so Im selling. Overall, I love the car to death but not worth the time in the shop

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  Can I get heat with that - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By BRP - June 22 - 3:36 pm

  Picked up our new C240 8hrs after arrival at dealer Thurs. Wasnt ready as promised. Heater wouldnt work. Called at 10am next day as instructed. Car ready. Arrive 12:30pm and pick up car. Minutes away from dealership, turn heater on full blast. Thirty minutes later arrive at my office and cold air still flowing. Therefore, can assume one of two things: dealer never fixed heater; dealer fixed heater and it broke a second time before driven off the dealers lot. Lemon?

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  Going back to BMW - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By flightgo - June 17 - 10:00 am

  Thought Id go for the best and trade up to a Mercedes. Like the lines, fit/finish and the little star on the front hood, but stops there. As others say, Mercedes doesnt know how to make competitive price car w/quality. Electrical problems in and out of shop. 2 new computers, joke of a phones system, alarm goes off driving down small town main street, different lugs for spare, radio is aweful, computer locks up all the time requiring a park, off engine and restart to clear. Auto transmission is a dog and engine should show more strength. Sorry, but thats the way it is...

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  Frequent Expensive Repairs - 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By sisaacs - March 26 - 11:22 pm

  This model car has numerous problems. My 55 yr old wife drives this car gently. Yet, after 90K miles, I have replaced: braking computer, rear brakes 3x, front brakes 6x, alternator, numerous sensors, spark plugs and wires 2x, MAF 2x, EGR Valve 2x, EGR tube, fuel pump, motor mounts 2x, rear coil springs, numerous bulbs, window regulators 3x, front speakers, door handle, battery 2x, wheel, keys 2x, front control arm, steering assembly, gas cap, and sway bar links. Yet to repair: fading LCD instrument display, pass seat heater, front shocks, cracked cigarette tray cover, shifter (base pulled away from console), steering wheel, valve cover gaskets, clicking noise in drive shaft, trunk handle.

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  The ultimate lemon - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By mercedes c320 4matic - March 18 - 8:13 am

  10/1/04 I got involved in the worst car of my life. I didnt realize that the car was as small as it really is. The kid keeps kicking the back of the front seat. Mileage could be better. But the worst thing is the car. At 18g miles the tranny went. Poof gone. At 28g the tranny went again. Then a dozen other things kept breaking. Then to drive the nail home the engine started burning oil. I clocked the car burning oil at one qt per 1500 miles. The dealership in Greenwich basically said lets keep a eye on it. Ya , lets keep a eye on it. I called Mercedes headquarters and lodged my complaint. They are keeping a eye on it also. Next stop is the lawyer. Maybe he can keep a eye on it.

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  What a Turkey.... - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By SP - January 12 - 10:00 am

  This car looks lovely, but is an absolute piece of junk. First, the purge valve was so noisy that it could be heard above the stereo. It took 4 visits to 2 dealerships to get it fixed. The ABS has failed twice in the past 3 weeks, and just today, the climate control system as well as the automatic mirror adjustments have stopped working. The car, as well as MB service are stuff that nightmares are made of.

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  Electrical Trouble never goes away - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Annabell - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Have put 18,000 miles on this car. It has been in the shop over 14 times in the first 6 months. Everything from the headrest motor to the fuel pump to the crankshaft has been replaced. Car is very slow on the start. Dont think of jumping out into traffic!

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  This Mercedes is Junk - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By legendtype2 - November 13 - 10:20 am

  My girlfriend bought it and at 400 miles powersteering rack was replaced due to grinding noise. At 5,600 miles idler pulley was replaced due to engine noise. Same day sunroof stopped working. My point, its fun to drive, but not really reliable. Do yourself a favor by getting something else. Even Hyundai has better reliability.

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  Run away from buying a MB - 1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By bill - October 30 - 8:36 pm

  There is no possible reason for anyone to buy a car like this. I have owned many cars in my life and this is probably the most unreliable vehicle I have ever experienced. Known problems are MAF sensor, suspension, electronics, brakes etc, etc. Cheap vinyl seats that are passed off as leather. Any Ford, Honda, Toyota etc. would be a better purchase. If you must have a Mercedes lease a new one and dump it before the problems start.

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  mybenz - 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By parker - October 21 - 10:23 pm

  I though it would be neat to get a mercedes but I didt want to spend a lot. So, here I am with a new c-class. These cars are cheap which is why practically every other person on the road has one. However, now that I have it I have found out that it feels very similar to the Toyota Corolla I used to drive. Mercedes should drop the entry level segment just as Jaguar has. Next time Ill stay away from the poor mans model and get something decent.