Alongside the A-Class hatchback, it’s the C-Class that helps make up a significant number of sales for Mercedes-Benz.
Thanks to an impressive four body styles – saloon, estate, coupe and convertible – and everything from fleet-friendly diesels through to powerful AMG models, there really is a C-Class to suit most tastes.
Facelifted in 2018 with styling cues taken from the larger E-Class and S-Class models, it also features a larger infotainment display and new powertrain technology.
Here we take a look about what you need to know about it…
What engines are available?
There is certainly no shortage of engine options available on the C-Class, with the range kickstarting with a 154bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine (C180), which comes paired to a six-speed transmission – the only model to do so, as the rest come with a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
Following this is the 181bhp C200, which utilises a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine. This engine is also one of the newer powertrains available – featuring mild-hybrid technology for an extra power boost. Mercedes calls this tech ‘EQ Power’. The most powerful petrol non-AMG is the C300, which comes with a 254bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine – enabling a 0-60mph time of 5.7 seconds and a top speed capped at 155mph.
Diesel engines are the variants that still prove to be popular in the C-Class, with the C220d being the most affordable diesel variant – featuring a 191bhp 2.0-litre diesel. The other option is the C300d, which sees the power ramped up to 242bhp.
The C-Class is also available with an innovative and highly efficient diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain (C300de), which sees a 2.0-litre diesel engine mated to an electric motor and battery pack to produce a combined 302bhp – allowing for a 0-60mph time of 5.4 seconds. Used in its most efficient capacity, the C300de will return between 176.6mpg and 235.4mpg, while offering ultra-low CO2 emissions of just 41g/km. It’s also able to travel for up to 34 miles on electricity.
What trim levels are offered?
There’s certainly no shortage of trim levels available on the C-Class, with equipment highlights and prices as follows…
S – from £29,040 (saloon only)
Standard equipment includes an electric tailgate (on estate versions), electrically-operated and heated door mirrors, automatic wipers, LED interior lighting, electric front seats, a leather steering wheel, a driver attention alert and a seven-inch media display.
SE – from £31,680 (saloon only)
The SE adds 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, heated front seats, park assist, a reversing camera, a large 10.25-inch media display and automatic emergency braking.
Sport Edition – from £35,990 (saloon)/£37,190 (estate)
See Available C Class deals
Sport Edition brings LED headlights, sportier suspension, leather sports seats and 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels.
AMG Line Edition – from £37,485 (saloon)/£38,685 (estate)
This popular variant adds AMG bodystyling, revised 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, a black styling pack and an impressive 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster,
AMG Line Night Edition Premium – from £39,985 (saloon)/£41,505 (estate)
This plush version features 19-inch alloy wheels, additional black styling, memory front seats, 64-colour ambient interior lighting, wireless charging and a Midine sound system.
AMG Line Night Edition Premium Plus – from £42,485 (saloon)/£46,195 (estate)
This range-topping version brings keyless entry and start, a 360-degree parking camera, an electric sunroof and a very impressive Burmester sound system.
What about personalisation?
Mercedes would typically offer a whole range of optional extras in the past, though the extensive range of trims means you now have these bundled together – rather than picking individual extras.
Typical personalisation options like colour and wheel choice aren’t extensive. Polar White is the free colour, but brighter shades like Brilliant Blue can be chosen, too. You’re also able to choose exclusive Designo Diamond White (pearl). Depending on version, various interior trim is available, with ash trim coming on high-spec versions. If your car comes with leather seats, you’re also able to choose the upholstery in various colours like black, beige and brown.
A whole range of accessories can be had, too, from roof boxes through to thick floor mats and LED projector puddle lights.
