Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The C-class is Mercedes-Benz’s ever-popular mid-size luxury sedan. 2018’s update brought with it a new 2.0-litre diesel engine that’s offered in two states of tune as well as a new 1.5-litre petrol engine with mild hybrid tech. Also on offer is the mad Mercedes-AMG C63 S.

The C-class is Mercedes-Benz’s ever-popular mid-size luxury sedan. 2018’s update brought with it a new 2.0-litre dies...

The C-class is Mercedes-Benz’s ever-popular mid-size luxury sedan. 2018’s update brought with it a new 2.0-litre diesel engine that’s offered in two states of tune as well as a new 1.5-litre petrol engine with mild hybrid tech. Also on offer is the mad Mercedes-AMG C63 S.

That the C-class looks like a shrunken S-class is a good starting point; though each trim’s distinct styling package will dictate if you see the Merc as elegant or sporty. The C-class is lavishly finished on the inside and overall quality is superb. However, the rear seat isn’t the best in class – the average thigh support and limited headroom are to blame.
A four-cylinder, 1.5-litre engine might sound inadequate for a Mercedes-Benz C-class but the fact is it isn’t. The C 200 is quick to build speed and the powertrain’s electric assist helps performance both, in town and in all-out driving. Diesel car buyers, on the other hand, will take keenly to the standard-spec C-class diesel – the C 220d. Engine refinement is really good and with 194hp on call, there’s no shortage of power either. The 245hp C 300d is a stonker and will surprise you with the performance it has to offer. A slick steering is common to all C-classes, as is a comfortable albeit slightly firm ride.
As for the 510hp C63 S, it has all the power, sound and drama you'd expect from a Mercedes-AMG.

That the C-class looks like a shrunken S-class is a good starting point; though each trim’s distinct styling package ...

That the C-class looks like a shrunken S-class is a good starting point; though each trim’s distinct styling package will dictate if you see the Merc as elegant or sporty. The C-class is lavishly finished on the inside and overall quality is superb. However, the rear seat isn’t the best in class – the average thigh support and limited headroom are to blame.
A four-cylinder, 1.5-litre engine might sound inadequate for a Mercedes-Benz C-class but the fact is it isn’t. The C 200 is quick to build speed and the powertrain’s electric assist helps performance both, in town and in all-out driving. Diesel car buyers, on the other hand, will take keenly to the standard-spec C-class diesel – the C 220d. Engine refinement is really good and with 194hp on call, there’s no shortage of power either. The 245hp C 300d is a stonker and will surprise you with the performance it has to offer. A slick steering is common to all C-classes, as is a comfortable albeit slightly firm ride.
As for the 510hp C63 S, it has all the power, sound and drama you'd expect from a Mercedes-AMG.

You really can’t go wrong with any version of the Mercedes-Benz C-class. Still, it’s the diesel variants the majority of buyers will gravitate to. From the diesels, we’d pick the C 220d that offers ample performance. You’d do well to spend the premium for the C 220d in the higher-spec Progressive trim that gets larger (and more attractive) wheels, auto parking, a panoramic sunroof as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support for its 10.25-inch infotainment system.

You really can’t go wrong with any version of the Mercedes-Benz C-class. Still, it’s the diesel variants the majority...

You really can’t go wrong with any version of the Mercedes-Benz C-class. Still, it’s the diesel variants the majority of buyers will gravitate to. From the diesels, we’d pick the C 220d that offers ample performance. You’d do well to spend the premium for the C 220d in the higher-spec Progressive trim that gets larger (and more attractive) wheels, auto parking, a panoramic sunroof as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support for its 10.25-inch infotainment system.