Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021) Review
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021) At A Glance
This generation of Mercedes C-Class was arguably even more desirable than rivals including the Audi A4, dynamically polished BMW 3 Series and stylish Jaguar XE. As well as sleek looks that echoed the Mercedes S-Class, the Mercedes C-Class was based on a new platform with more interior space than the previous model, especially for rear seat passengers. Read on for our full Mercedes C-Class review.
The Mercedes C-Class got a totally new layout in this 2014 generation, with a minimalist design dominated by a large one-piece centre console. Not only is it very stylish, but it feels every inch the premium car it should be.
Mercedes likened the cabin as ‘akin to the uplifting feeling of being upgraded from economy to business class on an aeroplane’ and we certainly can’t argue with that.
Where the Mercedes C-Class really shines as a used buy is in terms of refinement and comfort: it’s incredibly quiet and cossetting on the move, with a superb ride.
Even AMG Line models with sports suspension and larger alloys are impressively comfortable. At motorway speeds, the Mercedes C-Class is a joy with barely any wind or road noise. This makes it an ideal long-distance car.
Not that this comes at the expense of handling. The Mercedes C-Class had a new steering system, which offers much better feel than previously, along with more weight.
Add this to a six-speed manual gearbox and the Mercedes C-Class was a revelation compared with its predecessor, helped by good body control and impressive agility.
Finally, the Mercedes C-Class was the premium saloon it had always promised to be and the famous three-pointed star had a car good enough in all departments to rival the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.
It was also well equipped as standard with all cars coming with DAB, Artico leather, a reversing camera, collision prevention assist and a media interface.
Read our review of the latest Mercedes C-Class here.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021) handling and engines
- Engines range from C 200 2.0 Automatic to AMG C 63 S
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 16–74 mpg
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Handling and ride quality
The Mercedes C-Class is very good to drive and is impressively quiet at motorway speeds with minimal wind intrusion, and hardly any road noise.
Not only does the Mercedes C-Class look like a small Mercedes S-Class, it also feels like one on the move. Neither the BMW 3 Series nor the Audi A4 comes anywhere close for comfort.
This extends to the excellent ride quality too. With this Mercedes C-Class, the German marque went back to doing what it does best – producing supremely comfortable and solid cars.
It feels every inch what a Mercedes should be, and was helped by a new front axle and a longer wheelbase. It never gets stressed at higher speeds, feeling stable and composed.
The steering is excellent, with a reasonable amount of weight and natural feel through corners. In fact, the Mercedes C-Class handles surprisingly well considering how accomplished it is at cruising on the motorway.
There are, of course, differing suspension options. SE models get a comfort suspension set-up, while the Sport has the same, but lowered by 15mm.
The top AMG Line has sports suspension lowered by 15mm and 18-inch wheels so is noticeably firmer, but still forgiving and smooth – far more so than the sportier versions of competitor saloons.
Unlike the competition, the Mercedes C-Class was also available with air-suspension, called Airmatic, which features all-round self-levelling.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Engines
There’s a wide range of petrol, diesel and hybrids engines available in this generation of Mercedes C-Class.
Confusingly, but in typical Mercedes fashion, the badging bears little relation to the size of the engine.
As of 2019, the diesel line-up was made up of a 1.6-litre four-cylinder C200d with 160PS (available with a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic gearbox), a 2.0-litre four-cylinder badged C220d producing 194PS (paired with the nine-speed auto and two or four-wheel drive) and another 2.0-litre four-cylinder badged C300d with 245PS (also paired with the automatic gearbox and available in rear or four-wheel drive).
There was also a C300de plug-in hybrid model.
Petrol engine options consisted of the entry-level C180 four-cylinder 1.6-litre with 156PS and available with a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission. There was also a C200 mild hybrid, powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 184PS and available with two or four-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder 258PS C300 topped the standard Mercedes C-Class range.
For those looking for something a bit sportier, there were also AMG models. These included six-cylinder C43 and eight-cylinder C63 and C63 S models, with power ranging from 390 to 510PS.
You won’t really go wrong with any of the Mercedes C-Class’s engines, as long as you bear in mind that diesels are generally best suited to high mileages. We rate the C200 mild hybrid, with its 48v system doing an impressive job of eliminating turbo lag.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Safety
This Mercedes C-Class came with a lot of safety kit.
All models have crash-avoiding autonomous emergency braking with Mercedes’ Collision Prevention Assist Plus tech. There’s also a host of airbags and other aids, such as ESP, fatigue alert and a pedestrian-protecting pop-up bonnet.
It’s a little strange, then, that Mercedes did not fit all-round parking sensors to every model. Even so, that didn’t stop the Mercedes C-Class from earning a full five-star rating from Euro NCAP when it was crash tested in 2014.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Towing
The Mercedes C-Class saloon is able to tow up to 750kg with an unbraked trailer.
Swap that for a trailer with brakes and you can haul as much as 1600kg, although some versions have a slightly higher maximum at 1800kg.
Check the owner’s manual to be absolutely certain.
Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
---|---|---|---|
AMG C 43 | 30–35 mpg | 4.7 s | 183–213 g/km |
AMG C 63 | 29–35 mpg | 4.1 s | 192–227 g/km |
AMG C 63 S | 29–35 mpg | 4.0 s | 192–227 g/km |
C 180 | 47–48 mpg | 8.2 s | 134–140 g/km |
C 180 Automatic | 44–46 mpg | 8.3 s | 140–149 g/km |
C 200 1.5 4Matic Automatic | 44 mpg | 8.1 s | 148 g/km |
C 200 1.5 Automatic | 46–47 mpg | 7.7 s | 136–145 g/km |
C 200 2.0 | 50–53 mpg | 7.5 s | 123–128 g/km |
C 200 2.0 4Matic Automatic | 41–42 mpg | 7.4 s | 149–157 g/km |
C 200 2.0 Automatic | 49–53 mpg | 7.2–7.3 s | 123–135 g/km |
C 200 Automatic | - | - | 135 g/km |
C 200 d 1.6 | 66–72 mpg | 8.5–10.2 s | 101–113 g/km |
C 200 d 1.6 Automatic | 63–67 mpg | 7.9–10.2 s | 112–116 g/km |
C 220 d 2.0 4Matic Automatic | 58 mpg | 6.9 s | 131 g/km |
C 220 d 2.0 Automatic | 61–64 mpg | 6.9 s | 117–121 g/km |
C 220 d 2.1 | 67–71 mpg | 7.7 s | 104 g/km |
C 220 d 2.1 4Matic Automatic | 59–61 mpg | 7.5 s | 117–127 g/km |
C 220 d 2.1 Automatic | 61–66 mpg | 7.4–7.5 s | 110–117 g/km |
C 220 d Automatic | - | - | 128 g/km |
C 250 d 2.1 4Matic Automatic | 59–61 mpg | 6.8 s | 122–127 g/km |
C 250 d 2.1 Automatic | 61–66 mpg | 6.6 s | 110–117 g/km |
C 300 Automatic | 42–44 mpg | 5.9 s | 136–153 g/km |
C 300 d 4Matic Automatic | 53 mpg | 5.7 s | 139 g/km |
C 300 d Automatic | 58 mpg | 5.9 s | 129–135 g/km |
C 300 de Automatic | - | 5.6 s | 38–41 g/km |
C 300 e Automatic | - | 5.4 s | 33 g/km |
C 300 h | 74–79 mpg | 6.4 s | 95 g/km |
C 350 e | - | 5.9 s | 48–52 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
66%
Real MPG
16–74 mpg
MPGs submitted
818
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021) interior
- Boot space is 300–480 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Length | 4686–4756 mm |
Width | 2020 mm |
Height | 1426–1460 mm |
Wheelbase | 2840 mm |
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Practicality
The driving position is good, with plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering column, and the high centre console, with its armrest, means the Mercedes C-Class is incredibly comfortable on long journeys, helped by the usual strong and supportive seat design.
Room for passengers in the back was markedly improved over the previous car, with better knee and headroom. This is especially noticeable when you have a taller driver in front.
The boot is decent at 480 litres – identical to a BMW 3 Series of the same era – and the wide opening makes it easy to load.
One thing to note is that the Mercedes C-Class doesn’t come with folding rear seats as standard. You had to choose a Sport or AMG Line variant to get that feature.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Quality and finish
One of the criticisms of the earlier Mercedes C-Class was that the interior didn’t feel like that of an upmarket car. It was solid, but lacked that premium edge of competitors.
The cabin of this generation was clearly an area that Mercedes focused on and the results are impressive. Finally, the Mercedes had a modern and sophisticated interior that was more than a match for the competition from Audi and BMW.
The overall design was far less angular than before with a flowing dash, and some nice details like the circular air vents. The vents themselves have a lovely action when you open or close them.
It makes you realise that if Mercedes put that much attention into just an air vent, the rest must be equally well engineered and finished.
A stylish one-piece centre console flows down into the armrest. As models with the automatic gearbox have the gear selector on the steering column, this frees up more space.
It’s also clear that the Mercedes S-Class was a big influence on the design, with a neat row of metal buttons across the centre console and below that, a classy analogue clock.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Infotainment
All models come with a touchpad integrated into the centre console.
This lets you navigate through various functions and recognises smartphone-type gestures such as pinching and swiping. You can also use it to write in letters and numbers.
Audi was the first to introduce such a system and BMW followed, but the Mercedes touchpad looks great and is easy to use.
Also standard on all models is a seven-inch colour display that looks like a small tablet or iPad on the face of the dash.
It’s a high-resolution screen and comes with DAB and Bluetooth as standard. It’s far more modern than the previous Mercedes system with better menus, faster responses and a more intuitive menu layout.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021) value for money
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Prices
This Mercedes C-Class can be found from £11,000 for a 10-year-old model with 80,000 miles under its wheels.
A three-year-old Mercedes C-Class with 20,000 miles will require a spend of about £20,000.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2014 – 2021): Running Costs
This Mercedes C-Class sits in insurance groups which range from 24 to 49. The latter is for the outrageously fast AMG model, but most drivers will be looking to the smaller petrol or diesel Mercedes C-Class models.
Servicing a Mercedes C-Class need not require a massive outlay, as independent garages can offer good rates and Mercedes also provides keen deals on older models.
Road tax is another area where most Mercedes C-Class models will be easy on the finances, and all cars registered from 1 April 2017 require a flat rate of £180 per year.
However, bear in mind any car up to five years old that had a new list price of £40,000 or more will pay an additional £390 per year for road tax.
In terms of fuel economy, some versions were claimed to deliver more than 70mpg. But our Real MPG data shows you can generally expect 50mpg from the diesels and 40mpg from the petrol variants.
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The Mercedes C-Class SE comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, Artico leather upholstery, seven-inch Audio 20 CD with touchpad, agility control, comfort suspension, reversing camera and rain sensitive wipers.
It also has Collision Prevention Assist Plus, cruise control with hold function, tyre pressure monitoring, DAB, media interface (for connecting iPhones etc), three-spoke steering wheel and Direct Steer with speed sensitive steering.
Choose the Mercedes C-Class Sport and it adds 17-inch alloys, aluminium interior trim, contrasting stitching, exterior chrome trim, Garmin Map Pilot Navigation and heated front seats.
On top of this, there are LED high-performance headlights, 15mm lowered comfort suspension, mirror package, Parktronic with Active Park Assist, split-folding rear seats and sports seats in Artico leather.
Mercedes C-Class AMG Line models have 18-inch alloy wheels, AMG bodystyling, AMG sports pedals, AMG sports seats in Artico leather, AMG sports steering wheel and a black roof lining.
There is also a chrome splitter, sports Direct Steer system and 15mm lowered sports suspension, while automatic models have gearshift paddles.
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Length | 4686–4756 mm |
Width | 2020 mm |
Height | 1426–1460 mm |
Wheelbase | 2840 mm |
Miscellaneous | |
---|---|
Kerb Weight | 1440–1895 kg |
Boot Space | 300–480 L |
Warranty | 3 years |
Servicing | 10000–15500 miles |
Spare Wheel | |||
---|---|---|---|
Standard | Tyre-repair kit / Run-flat tyres |
Costs | |
---|---|
List Price | £29,040–£73,775 |
Insurance Groups | 24–49 |
Road Tax Bands | A–L |
Official MPG | 28.5–122.8 mpg |
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
---|---|
Adult | - |
Child | - |
Pedestrian | - |
Overall | 5 |
On sale until April 2022
Saloon | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
C300de 2.0 AMG Line Edition Auto 4dr | £44,510 | - | 5.6 s |
C300DE 2.0 AMG Line Edition Premium Auto 4dr | £46,025 | - | 5.6 s |
C300DE 2.0 AMG Line Edition Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £44,225 | - | 5.6 s |
C300de 2.0 AMG Line Night Edition Premium Auto 4dr | £47,905 | - | 5.6 s |
C300de 2.0 AMG Line Night Edition Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £50,405 | - | 5.6 s |
C300de 2.0 Sport Edition Auto 4dr | £43,015 | - | 5.6 s |
C300DE 2.0 Sport Edition Premium Auto 4dr | £44,930 | - | 5.6 s |
C300DE 2.0 Sport Edition Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £47,130 | - | 5.6 s |
C300e 2.0 AMG Line Edition Auto 4dr | £42,364 | - | 5.4 s |
C300e 2.0 AMG Line Night Edition Premium Auto 4dr | £45,759 | - | 5.4 s |
C300e 2.0 AMG Line Night Edition Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £47,364 | - | 5.4 s |
C300e 2.0 Sport Edition Auto 4dr | £40,869 | - | 5.4 s |
On sale until December 2021
On sale until September 2019
On sale until July 2019
Saloon | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
C300h 2.1 AMG Line Auto 4dr | £40,255 | 74.3 mpg | 6.4 s |
C300h 2.1 AMG Line Premium Auto 4dr | £41,950 | 74.3 mpg | 6.4 s |
C300h 2.1 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £43,250 | 74.3 mpg | 6.4 s |
C300h 2.1 SE Auto 4dr | £36,765 | 78.5 mpg | 6.4 s |
C300h 2.1 SE Executive Edition Auto 4dr | £38,060 | 78.5 mpg | 6.4 s |
C300h 2.1 Sport Auto 4dr | £38,760 | 78.5 mpg | 6.4 s |
C300h 2.1 Sport Premium Auto 4dr | £40,455 | 78.5 mpg | 6.4 s |
C300h 2.1 Sport Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £41,755 | 78.5 mpg | 6.4 s |
C350e 2.0 AMG Line Auto 4dr | £40,990 | - | 5.9 s |
C350e 2.0 AMG Line Premium Auto 4dr | £42,685 | - | 5.9 s |
C350e 2.0 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £43,985 | - | 5.9 s |
C350e 2.0 Sport Auto 4dr | £39,480 | - | 5.9 s |
C350e 2.0 Sport Premium Auto 4dr | £41,175 | - | 5.9 s |
C350e 2.0 Sport Premium Plus Auto 4dr | £42,475 | - | 5.9 s |
On sale until September 2018
On sale until April 2017
On sale until April 2015
Saloon | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
C 63 AMG 510 S Edition 1 Auto 4dr | £73,500 | 34.5 mpg | 4.0 s |
Model History
- December 2013: Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new C-Class
- February 2014: UK pricing announced
- September 2014: Mercedes C63 AMG unveiled
- November 2014: C300h diesel hybrid introduced
- July 2015: C63 AMG prices revealed
- August 2017
- February 2018: Facelifted C-Class revealed
- August 2018: Revised AMG C 63 goes on sale
December 2013
Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new C-Class
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class was described by MB as having a "clear yet emotional design and high-class interior. Many other innovations and interior touches underscore the Saloon's comfort and refined sportiness. In all, the perceived quality of the new C-Class feels like an upgrade to a higher class of travel”.
The C-Class has grown to take account of people's increasing average height. With an 80-mm increase in the wheelbase (2840mm) compared with the previous model, the vehicle is 95 mm longer (4686mm and 40mm wider (1810mm). The boot is bigger at 480 litres and there's more rear legroom.
Standard wheel and tyre size is 16-inch with 205/60 R16 tyres.
Other wheel and tyre sizes are:
16-inch with 225/55 R16 tyres
17-inch with 225/50 R17 tyres front and rear
17-inch with 225/50 R17 front; 245/45 R17 rear
18-inch with 225/45 R18 front and rear
18-inch with 225/45 R18 front; 245/40 R19 rear
19-inch with 225/40 R19 front; 255/35 R19 rear
19-inch with 225/40 R19 front; 245/35 R19 rear
Breakover Angle: better than 12.5 degrees helps prevent grounding on ramps. Wheelbase: 2840mm; ground clearance: 92mm; breakover angle: 7.41 degrees. C200 Airmatic: Wheelbase: 2840mm; ground clearance: 117mm; breakover angle: 9.42 degrees
The interior has an all new centre console featuring flowing lines. In automatic vehicles, a large one-piece centre console panel performs an elegant sweep from the centre air vents to the armrest. On vehicles with manual transmission, the centre console is slightly steeper and features two separate trim elements in order to create ample space for ergonomic operation of the shift lever.
The innovative touchpad in the handrest over the Controller on the centre tunnel marks a further evolutionary step developed in-house at Mercedes-Benz. As on a smartphone, this provides for very simple and intuitive operation of all the head-unit functions using finger gestures. The touchpad also permits letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting - in any language. The user receives clear haptic feedback when operating the touchpad's control surface, which is highly conducive to genuine intuitive use.
Three engine variants are available at the market launch - a diesel in the guise of the C 220 BlueTEC and the two petrol models, C 180 and C 200:
Model | Displacement cc |
hp | Nm | 0-62 mph in sec. |
mpg | CO 2 g/km |
C 220 BlueTEC | 2143 | 170 | 400 | 8.1 | 70.6 | 103 |
C 180 | 1595 | 156 | 250 | 8.2 | 56.5 | 116 |
C 200 | 1919 | 184 | 300 | 7.5 | 53.3 | 123 |
Soon after the launch, Mercedes-Benz expanded the range of engines including a new, Renualt derived 1.6 small diesel engine. Reduced weight, compact design and low fuel consumption are among its special merits. Depending on its configuration, the single-stage supercharged four-cylinder engine generates 115hp or 136hp from a cubic capacity of 1,598cc and delivers 280Nm or 320Nm of torque. That is a significant difference from the Renault/Nissan applications of this engine that are turbocharged in the case of the DCI 130 and twin-turbo in the forthcoming DCI 160.
In addition to this new small diesel engine, an advanced version of the proven 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel engine became available in several output variants. The diesel engines covered an output range from 115hp to 204hp. The C 220 BlueTEC was also available with an output of 170hp.
As in the S and E-Class, Mercedes-Benz additionally offered a diesel engine combined with a hybrid module. The C 300 BlueTEC HYBRID with four-cylinder diesel engine and a compact electric motor generates an output of 204 + 27hp and runs on only 72.4mpg in NEDC combined mode (provisional figure). A further particularly economical hybrid model arrived later with state-of-the-art plug-in technology.
The suspension on the new C-Class is an all-new development. It provides for nimble and agile handling that makes driving a great pleasure on winding roads while also offering the highest standard of ride comfort in the segment.
The new C-Class Saloon is fitted as standard with steel suspension. Three DIRECT CONTROL suspensions with selective damping system are available in conjunction with this suspension:
- a comfort suspension
- a lowered comfort suspension with a sportier character
- a sports suspension lowered by 15mm
Alternatively, the new C-Class is the first vehicle in its segment that can be fitted with an air suspension (AIRMATIC) on the front and rear axles (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED). Thanks to electronically controlled, continuous variable damping at the front and rear, it offers outstanding road roar and tyre vibration characteristics even with the vehicle loaded. The driver can use the AGILITY SELECT switch to choose between the various characteristics: "Comfort", "ECO", "Sport" and "Sport+". The additional "Individual" option enables drivers to configure their vehicle according to their own wishes. AIRMATIC also features all-round self-levelling for optimum ride comfort even when the vehicle is loaded.
A completely new multimedia generation offers intuitive operation in the new C-Class, featuring elaborate animations and visual effects, which present all the functions in a clear and highly attractive manner. The new C-Class is also equipped with the unique Frontbass system. This avant-garde acoustic systems uses the space within the cross-member and side member in the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers to conjure up a listening experience almost on a par with a concert hall.
February 2014
UK pricing announced
Three model lines will make up the new C-Class range - SE, Sport and the AMG Line. Among the equipment highlights, the Sport model adds 17-inch alloy wheels (up from 16-inch on the SE), LED headlights, lowered comfort suspension, chrome exterior trim and Garmin Map Pilot Navigation. The AMG Line adds 18-inch AMG wheels, AMG bodystyling and steering wheel, sports suspension and an Artico finish to the upper dashboard.
Engine | Model | Transmission | CO 2 | Rec. OTR price (£) |
P11d price (£) |
BIK tax rate (14/15) |
C 200 | SE | 6-speed manual | 123 | £26,855 | £26,800 | 17% |
7-speed automatic | 123 | £28,355 | £28,300 | 17% | ||
Sport | 6-speed manual | 124 | £28,850 | £28,795 | 17% | |
7-speed automatic | 124 | £30,350 | £30,295 | 17% | ||
AMG Line | 6-speed manual | 128 | £30,345 | £30,290 | 18% | |
7-speed automatic | 127 | £31,845 | £31,790 | 18% | ||
C 220 BlueTEC | SE | 6-speed manual | 103 | £29,365 | £29,310 | 16% |
7-speed automatic | 109 | £30,865 | £30,810 | 17% | ||
Sport | 6-speed manual | 104 | £31,360 | £31,305 | 16% | |
7-speed automatic | 110 | £32,860 | £32,805 | 18% | ||
AMG Line | 6-speed manual | 106 | £32,855 | £32,800 | 17% | |
7-speed automatic | 113 | £34,355 | £34,300 | 18% |
September 2014
Mercedes C63 AMG unveiled
The new C63 AMG adds an all-new 4.0-litre biturbo engine to endow it with phenomenal performance while unique, three-stage adjustable dampers and a bespoke steering setup allow it to retain the agility that made the model it replaces the most popular AMG ever created.
Every C63 AMG is fitted with 245/40 R18 (front) and 265/40 R18 (rear) tyres while the ‘S’ model gains 245/35 R19 (front) and 265/35 R19 (rear) tyres. A new braking system uses 390 mm discs at the front and 360 mm at the rear with the option of enhanced ceramic discs available for track-orientated driving.
The C63 AMG produces 476PS and, in C63 S AMG guise, 510PS. It’s nearly a third more efficient than the engine it replaces yet, in ‘S’ form, produces more power and emits less CO2– now from 192 g/km. A heavily revised version of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed transmission features on the C63 AMG - now with significantly quicker shift times to improve responses. The C 63 S AMG accelerates from rest to 62 mph in 4.0 seconds and is limited to a maximum top speed of 155 mph. The car weighs 1,715kg.
November 2014
C300h diesel hybrid introduced
Has 2.1 litre diesel developing 204PS + a 27PS electric motor. Quick and refined, especially with £900 optional air suspension. 0-60 in 6.2 seconds, top speed 150mph, 78.4mpg on NEDC cycle, 94g/km CO2 so tax free in 2015 and 2016. Very popular in countries like Thailand that offer a tax advantage to hybrids. Impressive to drive.
July 2015
C63 AMG prices revealed
List price of the C63 AMG is £60,060 for the 476PS C63 and £66,810 for the 510PS C63 S. AMG Performance seats in nappa leather are standard on the S and optional on the AMG63. Other options include carbo-ceramic brake discs at £4,285; head up display at £825; 360 degree camers £335; air balance package £350; special exhaust system £1,000.
August 2017
Mercedes Benz C350e petrol plug-in hybrid introduced with 210HP turbo petrol 1,991cc engine and 82HP electric motor. 0-60 in 5.7 seconts, top speed limited to 155mph, 48g/km CO2 and 134.5 mpg on the unrealistic 11 kilometre New European Drive Cycle. 6.2kWh Lithium Ion battery. Chargemaster home wall charging socket available for £280. Airmatic air suspension is standard.
February 2018
Facelifted C-Class revealed
Front bumpers redesigned for all lines while the rear bumper on the saloon and Estate has a new lower section, geometry, trim and tailpipe trim vary according to the selected equipment and engine variant.
C200s are now powered by the 1.5-litre M264 four cylinder engine. New to the C-Class is a mild hybrid C200 EQ Boost using 48V technology and an electric motor boosting a basic 184hp 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol-turbo engine to 198hp. The old 2.1 litre 4-cylinder diesel engine in the C220 d is replaced by the same 194PS 1,950cc 2.0 litre diesel as in the E-Class.
C 200 d (1,597cc) four-cylinder twin-turbocharged diesel engine, six-speed manual transmission: 160PS at 3,800rpm; 360Nm at 1,600-2,600rpm.
C 220 d (1,950cc) four-cylinder twin-turbocharged diesel engine, nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission: 194PS at 3,800rpm; 400Nm at 1,600-2,800rpm.
C 200 (1,497cc) four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission: 184PS at 5,800-6,100rpm; 280Nm at 3,000-4,000rpm.
C200 EQ Boost (1,497cc) four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission: 184PS at 5,800-6,100rpm; 280Nm at 3,000-4,000rpm. + 48v Mile Hybrid giving extra 14PS.
C 300 (1,991cc) four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission: 258PS at 5,800-6,100rpm; 370Nm at 1,800-4,000rpm.
C 43 (2,996cc) six-cylinder twin-turbocharged petrol engine, nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission: 390PS at 5,800-6,100rpm; 520Nm at 2,500-5,000rpm.
The colour spectrum has been broadened by the addition of Mojave silver metallic and emerald green metallic.
The centre console is characterised by an elegant flowing trim. This is available in open-pore brown walnut or open-pore anthracite oak. The 3D real wood veneer in the centre console combines a hand-crafted character with a modern feel. Magma grey/black are new interiors, plus saddle brown for the AMG Line interior.
The Keyless-Go starting function is standard. The start/stop button comes in a new turbine-look design. The vehicle key also features a new design. Customers have a choice between three variants here: black with high-gloss chrome surround, white with chrome surround or high-gloss white with matt chrome surround.
The Multicontour Seat package is new to the C-Class. With this package, the side bolsters and lumbar support can be individually adjusted by means of an electrically driven pneumatic pump. A massage effect in the lumbar area is provided by air chambers which are inflated and deflated in a pulsing or wave-like motion when the function is activated. The seat’s pneumatic functions are operated via the multimedia system.
The C-Class adopts the display concept of the current S-Class, with an optional fully digital instrument display offering the three different display styles “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive”.
The basic model features a classic two-tube instrument cluster. Between the tubes there is a 5.5-inch colour display. The fully digital instrument display is available as an option. The screen has a 12.3-inch diagonal and offers high resolution.
The multimedia screen above the centre console is also available in two sizes. In combination with Audio 20 it has a 7-inch screen diagonal and a resolution of 960 x 540 pixels. Here too, the display style is “Classic”.
The C-Class has touch-sensitive controls mounted on the steering wheel. They respond to swiping motions like the screen of a smartphone. They enable the driver to control the functions of the instrument cluster and of the entire infotainment system without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. The operation of Distronic and cruise control with controls directly on the steering wheel is another new feature.
The new C-Class comes with extended Active Brake Assist as standard. Depending on the situation, this can help to mitigate the consequences of rear-end collisions with slow-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles ahead, and even with crossing pedestrians and cyclists, or prevent them altogether.
August 2018
Revised AMG C 63 goes on sale
Prices start at £66,429 for the C 63 Saloon. The AMG C 63 uses AMG’s hand-built 4.0-litre V8 ‘hot V’ biturbo petrol engine which generates 476PS or 510PS for S models.
For the first time the C 63 now comes with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission (previously 7G), which has been specially designed for shorter shift times. A wet start-off clutch continues to replace the torque converter, ultimately saving weight and optimising throttle response.
AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive damping adjustment and an electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential are now standard on all C 63 models. The C 63 S also comes as standard with dynamic engine mounts, combining comfort with dynamic performance by reducing vibrations in the engine/transmission unit.
The C 63 Saloon can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.1 seconds (C 63 S: 4.0 seconds). The standard C 63 has an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph, while all C 63 S models can reach 180 mph (174 mph for the Estate and Cabriolet).
Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, performance exhaust, Multibeam LED headlights, 12.3-inch digital cockpit display, 10.25-inch central display, Comand Online, ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours, keyless start, wireless phone charging and memory seats. The C 63 S adds nine-stage AMG traction control, AMG Track Pace, AMG performance seats and 19-inch alloy wheels.
For £2595 customers can opt for the Premium Plus equipment line which includes Burmester surround sound system, panoramic sunroof (not available on Cabriolet), 360° camera and Keyless-Go Comfort package.
The Driving Assistance package costs £1695 and includes Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, BAS Plus with Cross-traffic Assist, Distronic Plus with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, Pre-Safe Brake with pedestrian detection and Pre-Safe Plus. AMG’s high-performance ceramic braking system can be added for £4285.
What to watch out for
Problems reported with C-Class bought November 2014. 10-4-2015 control screen developed scrolling lines resulting in a complete loss of functionality. Head unit replaced by dealer. Car returned 28-4-2015. Then further issues with satnav refusing to read the SD card. Then multiple warning signs on 6-6-2015 and car refused to start. After a repeated period of locking and unlocking the door it eventually started. All the warnings had disappeared. Car back to dealers on 9-6-2015 and dealer judged it not safe to drive. Car returned again on 19-6-2015. On 10-7-2015, satnav showed same scrolling lines and again said it could not read the SD card. Bluetooth phone system also failed. 13-7-2015 dealer updated the software, but after 4,844 miles and 24 days off the road since November 2015 owner now wants to reject the car.
16-07-2016:Report of new March 2016 C350e refusing to charge by the supplied lead. Mercedes-Benz dealer said water getting into the cable leading to the control box caused the problem and that Mercedes were aware of the problem and consequently a modified cable and control box were fitted to the car.
03-01-2017:Report of C43 AMG crabbing on less than full lock, same as GLC and GLC coupe. Owner says, "The MB advice of "avoid full lock" is unhelpful as at low speed, it does it on very limited lock coming off my driveway. I wonder how long the front CV joints will last?" This tends to indicate that there might be a problem with the 4Matic centre diff getting the wrong message from the front wheels and locking up.
05-01-2017:Further report of C43 tyres folding over on lock.
13-03-2017:Yet another report of chuntering of tyres on a new C43 AMG and owner was not aware of Mercedes-Benz offer to replace the tyres with all weather tyres that partially eliminate the problem.
22-03-2017:Further report of a 2016/66 C43 AMG chuntering its tyres on lock. Mercedes-Benz told the owner "it is a characteristic" of the car.
03-07-2017:Report of petrol smell both inside the cabin and outside a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class with 20,000 miles.
18-09-2017:Report of creaking from door seals of recently purchased 2016 Mercedes-Benz C200 executive auto with 11,235 miles. Back to dealer who said he had refitted the door seals and lubricated them but they still creak.
06-11-2017:Another report of full lock tyre judder on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. Owner considering a switch to cold weather tyres, which isn't a bad idea this time of year anyway. No all-weather tyres in 225/40 R19 seem to be available.
13-12-2017:Persistent rattle reported in sunroof mechanism of 2016 Mercedes Benz C-200 that Mercedes dealer seems to be incapable of curing.
01-01-2018:'New' Mercedes Benz C220 CDI AMG Line Premium plus purchased in October 2017 turned out to have been built in January 2017 and sitting around since. After two days, the Command system failed, the boot senssor opening works intermittently, and at speed there is a sensation of ‘feeling the road ‘ through the accelerator. Additionally, there is an intermittent ‘pause’ in accelerating away from a junction after stopping, and other niggly issues, including very rusty brake discs.
10-03-2018:Numerous irritating small faults reported on Mercedes-Benz C250d AMG Premium Plus estate bought used in November this 2017 with just over 12,000 miles. The faults have been electrical, with little things like the door lights, memory seats and the live traffic information failing. Now the keyless entry on the drivers door has failed.
08-06-2018:Further report of owner of 2017 Mercedes-Benz C220d Premium Plus auto finding that car has a 42 litre fuel tank instead of the expected 66 litre tank. This severely restricts its range to around 250 miles. Speculation that MB ran out of 66 litre tanks on the production line and to keep the line running fitted thr 42 litre tank of the C-Class hybrid.
21-06-2018:Report of a new Mercedes-Benz C200 delivered with a 42 litre fuel tank instead of 64 litres.
27-06-2018:Significant problems reported with Renault engined 2015/65 Mercedes-Benz C200 Sport 1.6 Bluetec diesel 136PS starting 40 days after purchase: First an engine oil low warning which was resolved by Mercedes with an engine oil top up. Issue kept returning every month. In March 2016, the automatic gearbox and turbocharger failed causing a power loss. The car was with Mercedes-Benz engineers for 40 days. 6 months later the automatic gearbox failed again. The car returned to Mercedes-Benz again in December 2016 for the same issue. Later in June 2017 the car broke down again and this time some airflow repairs were performed. In December 2017 the engine failed completely and required a replacement. Alltogether, the car has been with Mercedes-Benz engineers for over 6 month for the duration of ownership. Also a problem with the Start/stop function results in a power loss when taking off. Mercedes-Benz is yet to diagnose and resolve it.
05-08-2018:Report of 2018/67 Mercedes Benz C200d Sport delivered with 42 litre fuel tank instead of 66 litre tank (maybe the tank for the 1.5 litre mild hybrid model). Owner told it was £45 extra to have the larger tank. This was corrected. Further problems included car delivered with paperwork for a different car; headlamps fogged up and were eventually replaced; phantom dash warnings including "front left indicator, front headlamp, etc." later fixed; dealer also prescribed replacing the NOx control because it was "likely to fail".
23-08-2018:Report of 2014 Mercedes Benz C250 CDI 2,143cc 204HP AMG Line auto with full service history breaking down on 20th August. Mercedes Worcester investigated at cost of £400. Carried out analysis tests, compression, injectors, visual internal inspection of cylinders, and have decided it is a mechanical failure and needs a replacement engine and are speaking to MB.
20-10-2018:Report of failure of an EMS and then failure of the Charge Control unit for the hybrid battery of a 2017 Mercedes Benz C350e. Charging unit had to be ordered specially from Germany and with diagnosis and the work installing the new unit it’s been off the road for almost two weeks with both problems. Echoes the problem with charging units for BMW and MINI PHEVs.
21-10-2018:High speed vibration reported from C350e, particularly noticeable on smooth motorways. Owner has chenged tyres and has a 4-way laser alignment to no avail. MB dealer puzzled. No problem with Airmatic suspension. Seems to be driveline.
22-04-2019:Complaint of 2017 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG 4-Matic clunking its front tyres on full lock. 4,000 miles from new. Been back to the local Mercedes dealer for investigation under warranty but returned in same the same condition. There are two cures. One is different tyres. But the correct cure is a replacement steering knuckle joint that is correctly engineered for RHD cars.
04-05-2019:Petrol smell reported from March 2016 Mercedes Benz W205 C200 only just out of warranty. Car had its last service with Mercedes in the middle of March. Owner reported to dealer in April 2019 and dealer had the cheek to inform him there would be a £165 'diagnosis fee' to establish the cause of what is actually a very well known problem of the carbon filter in the fuel tank breathing system becoming blocked. Shoud be fixed FoC. Same thing happens on A-Class.
09-09-2019:Report of smell of petrol outside February 2015 Mercedes Benz C200 Sport auto. Will be a blocked charcoal filter in the fuel tank breather system.
25-10-2019:Report of front wheels of Mercedes-Benz C43 4-Matic 'skipping'.
15-11-2019:Report that after the NOx emissions software update a Mercedes-Benz C250d 4matic will not shift up from 8th to 9th gear until 75mph (previously 68mph). 9th can be selected on the paddles, but box shifts back down to 8th at about 65mph.
24-11-2019:Report of transmission failure of 2005/65 Mercedes Benz W205 C220 automatic at 35,000 miles; car correctly serviced on time by the MB dealer. Part to repair quoted at £1200 + labour (total of £1,644). MB is not initially offering any help towards cost from a goodwill view point. Car is 8 months out of manufacturer warranty, but owner may have Sale of Goods case law rights.
17-12-2019:Report of rattle from engine of Mercedes-Benz C200 EQ Boost (48v mild hybrid) purchased in May 2019. Within a couple of weeks owner reported a "serious engine rattle" to the supplying Mercedes dealer who said there was nothing wrong with. He then got management involved and they changed a pulley, belt and tensioner, but it made no difference. They then got their group technician involved. He submitted his findings to Mercedes-Benz and they fitted a redesigned crank pulley, but again the noise did not improve so owner served a rejection letter on the dealership and they submitted an exchange vehicle application, but Mercedes said there’s nothing wrong with the car as they have been able to reproduce the noise in some of the other C200 EQ Boosts and they can do some things to reduce the noise.
03-01-2020:Report of failure of the brakes of 2105 Mercedes Benz C300 D BlueTec hybrid at 88,000 miles. The servo assistance vacuum pump had failed. Needed attention by MB dealer because MB independent not qualified to work on a hybrid. Marshall Care Plan B warranty taken out when car was bought not pay out as it's not a listed part.
20-01-2020:Further report of front wheels of April 2019 Mercedes Benz C43 AMG "skipping badly when manoeuvring at very low speed resulting in a disconcertingly loud noise akin to having collided with a kerb."
23-02-2020:Owner of 220 diesel reports a 9mpg drop in fuel economy after voluntary dealer emissions update.
19-10-2020:Report of electric steering motor failure on 2016 C-Class. Dealer recommends replacing the full steering rack as the motor is part of the component. £2200 for reconditioned unit fitted. Mercedes-Benz UK has offered to cover 50 per cent of the repair cost.