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:

• 

  C230 Sport Sedan - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Mike - May 3 - 2:46 am

  What a car and what a change from the 2005 C230 and C240. The new 2.5l I6 is wonderful, smoother and quieter than the previous 240 and of course a whole lot different than the 230 4 cyl Supercharged. I took a 2005 C240 as a loaner during routine maintenance for comparison and you could not give me it compared to the 2006. Much quieter, smoother and the fuel economy. We are getting near 32MPG on the road at 75mph. The 7 speed takes some getting used to as you the driver seem a bit disconnected to it compared to the 5 speed in the 2005. This is our first MB and it wont be our last! Now if they would just bring out an ML320D!

• 

  Economical car, but weak horsepower - 1996 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Michael L - April 26 - 1:00 am

  This car has been very reliable and never had it towed to the shop as of yet now that it has 168,000 miles. This glossy black car looks very classy and luxurious at all levels. It drives well when the speedometer is over 60 MPH+ on the freeway, but from the get go it is slow because of the car is heavy and the engine is a sohc inline-4 with 148 horsepower. My cost of repairs on this car has been reasonable because the C220 had less features. Now the car is 14 years old and there are some wear and tear items that need to be addressed, but as long as it drivable and safe it should be no problems.

• 

  Very Pleased - with fingers crossed - 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By DGS49 - April 25 - 5:36 pm

  This car is a HOOT to drive! It corners, brakes, and accelerates very nicely. It has just enough power to be fun, yet gets great mileage with the 6M. Although the interior is not spacious, the seats are comfortable and supportive. Im not a stereo buff, but I think the sound system is great. My only criticism of the driving experience is that the steering is over-assisted and lacks feel. Ive had no reliability issues thus far, and the dealer even replaced a hard-to-get-at bulb under warranty. I am using 4 snows and it has gone great in snow and ice, despite being RWD. There is some flexibility in tire sizing, and I was able to get 17" snows very reasonably from Tire Rack.

• 

  C32 AMG Toronto - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By JiJ9J9 - April 17 - 10:00 am

  Hot Hot Hot!!! A sleeper that performs like a Corvette and seats four customers for business luncheons.

• 

  Quick and Fun For Less - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Kennyboy - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Great experience with this car. People stop and ask me about it all the time. Mines is Blk w/ Blk int. Hard to keep clean but worth the headache. Had an early problem with the SRS light coming on with in the first two months, but other than that worry free! I would recommend it to anyone looking to get into something sporty, good on gas and affordable. Oh yeah and A MERCEDES!!!

• 

  Could have been a contender - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By idealrides - April 3 - 10:00 am

  I ordered my C32 after having seen only pictures of one from Europe, and after having enjoyed my 1999 C43 so much that I knew this new AMG was going to be the cats balls. I was a little disappointed, the steering is decent for a Benz, but it has a bit too much understeer out the box. Living in Boston, the car is very uncomfortable on imperfect roads, it just doesnt soak up bumps the way a Benz should. Its also had a big handful of small problems, too many for a Benz in fact.

• 

  2012 MB C250 Coupe (CPO) - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By ezshift5 - March 17 - 8:39 pm

  6 months/2500 miles ago I drove home from the dealer. Using the CPO approach, my cost was 2/3 the original owners cost. Fuel efficiency (29 MPG since purchase), Reliability (Zero problems to date) and design (Both the exterior and the interior really appeal to this sailor. And that is part of my reason to buy this car. The other reason was CR ratings for the 2012 C250. IIRC, all red dots really got my attention.

• 

  Two Thumbs Up - 2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Razorback - March 16 - 7:33 am

  Better quality than previous model years. When sitting in the drivers seat you feel safe and secure. Drives and handles exceptionaly well. Dials and gauges well thought out and positioned in the cabin so you can see them easily.

• 

  Kevee - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Krystyna Z.Virkaitis - March 16 - 2:00 am

  It is "3S"- Solid - build,Safe - to drive,Strong - body. I like it very much and I feel I can depend on it on the road. Krystyna.

• 

  Little pricey, but its a Benz. - 2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Jimmy - March 13 - 3:06 pm

  First off, this is my first new car that I have bought ever. The monthly payments got me depressed at first but as Ive been driving it and taking care of it, Ive come to love this car. Ive had it for a year and a half a no real problems. The interior is beautiful, even for a C-class. To me, nothing says luxury like a Mercedes so if you want the finer things in life for under 40K, this is a pretty good place to go to. Will admit, if you are looking for a car on driving performance, this is not the car for you. If you want class, then check it out.