2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.47/5 Average
34 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Many changes are in evidence with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class. For the first time ever, a new coupe model debuts and is offered in the same configurations as the sedan. The C-Class is also more powerful and fuel-efficient this year, as the C350's V6 gets a big bump in horsepower, while a new turbocharged four-cylinder model debuts in a new trim, the C250. The C300's engine remains the same, but is now only available with all-wheel drive. The seven-speed automatic transmission has been altered for improved fuel efficiency, while the C63 gets the automated manual found in most other AMG models. Other changes include additional standard equipment, new front-end styling and a revised interior that does away with the old pop-up LCD infotainment screen.

Pros:
  • Meticulously engineered and constructed
  • Refined ride and handling
  • Rip-roaring C63 AMG model.
  • Excellent brakes
  • Diverse engine and model lineup
  • Good fuel economy
Cons:
  • All-wheel drive only available with one engine.
  • Smaller and pricier than some competitors

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 34.00
  • C350 Coupe Hits the Mark ..... Almost - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    Ordered my C350 Coupe in November and took delivery in February 2012. I love my coupe and I have not seen another one in Dallas as they are pretty rare. I must say, lots of heads turn and take a look when I drive by. The overall build quality inside and out feels very solid. I tested both the C250 and C350 and the C350 is far superior in handling and performance. I would not have been happy with the C250. The performance quality is slightly lacking versus the 2005 Infiniti G35 Coupe that I replaced, but the build quality feel and high end electronics make up for that shortfall. Biggest disapointment is the seats which differ from the sedan. They are very firm and uncomfortable.

  • 12 C250 unidentified groan - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    Hello: I have a 12 C250 luxury sedan with 12K miles. I occasionally hear a groaning sound that occurs intermittently. Its usually noticeable when the car is downshifting to a lower gear. Ive taken it to the dealer twice. Though theyve reproduced the sound, and not been able to positively identify it, they say that the car is operating "normally." Im doubtful. Has anyone else experienced this. If so, what was it and how was it corrected. Thanks.

  • Love this car and everything about it. - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    Great car. Love driving this C250. Its missing only one thing 4Matic AWD. Other than that Its a wonderful car and fun to drive.

  • Electrical Gremlins - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    Mercedes-Benz just bought back my 2012 C250 because of untraceable electrical issues. I do accept that this was just luck of the draw, a fluke, the random lemon, etc., and dont believe that my car was indicative of the model. I would have random electrical issues like non-functioning buttons, seat controls and warning lights, that would magically correct themselves the next morning. Dealer and even MB regional tried to identify the problem, but failed, ultimately just buying back my car. That said, the C250 was a blast to drive, smoother, more powerful and efficient than the C300 it replaced. Still highly recommended. I replaced my car with a certified 2011 C300.

  • it is so fun to drive! - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    its a K.O.! when i test drove it for the 1st time,i was so impressed the way it drives and hugs the road. pretty solid!i didnt bother to go to audi and bmw. it makes a sweet thug noise every time i gently close the door and makes me smile. its too sporty and too low. beware! i didnt realized that until i hit a parking concrete barrier just few days after getting the car and if you have a passenger that has a problem bending down, its a little hard for them to get in and out of the car.

  • wow what a car - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    sold my Mustang as soon as I drove the C350 Coupe. The C350 coupe is fast, nimble and very fun to drive. Interesting how this model is in very short supply. I have already been offered $5k more than I paid for it. I love the technology in this vehicle.

  • Good, could be great - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    Have has this car for 8mo/8K mi and overall Im pleased, but there are a few things holding it back from being truly exceptional. The car is stunning. It looks like a much higher end model than the rest of the C-class. I get people stopping me all the time. It is also the most comfortable highway car I have ever been in. The ride is dialed in perfectly for highway commuting, it gobbles up miles by the hundreds in quiet, ease, and refinement. It is not without its problems however. I have had many interior quality problems, a persistently squealing brake problem, and frankly, its not all that sporty to drive. If you can tune out creaks and rattles, this will still be a great car for you.

  • Used to love the car, but so unreliable... - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    I used to love my car, but not anymore. It is the perfect small size for me, and easy to navigate. However, I clearly got a defected car with a bad ignition system. In this April, all the sudden I was not able to turn on the engine on the street parking, and MB Roadside Assistance told me that the key didn’t recognize my car. I had to wait for 3 hours to get my car towed, and it took 2 weeks for MB to replace the ignition. The first day I drove after the repair, again the key didn’t recognize my car, and I spent another 3 hours to get it towed. The car is at MB for repair now, but I am so afraid of driving it anymore. I am very surprised that MB manufactures such an unreliable car.

  • Spari - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    Make sure you get heated seats!

  • Solid upgrade - 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
    By -

    I just traded my 2009 C300 Sport in for the new 2012 C250 Sport. In many ways, I thought this would be a downgrade, but in fact there is only one aspect of performance that was better with the old V6, and that is responsiveness in high-speed passing. Everywhere else, the new turbo 4 with the new 7GTronic + transmission seems to do a better job of keeping the less powerful though torquier engine in the meat of its powerband. The exterior of the car is subtly improved, while the interior received a major makeover, not that anything was wrong with the old one. The new COMAND nav/stereo is incredible.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Reviews By Year:
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