Overview

This Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon went on sale in 2014, had a subtle yet extensive facelift in 2018, two new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions launched in 2020, and finally went off sale in 2021. So, although the basic shape is getting on a bit, the C-Class is still at the cutting edge in terms of tech.

That means the C-Class is highly competitive, despite the length of time it’s been on sale. A common sight on UK roads, and a regular visitor into the UK Top 10 bestsellers list, it is popular with new and used with the UK’s drivers – it looks good, has excellent safety kit, a luxurious interior and the draw of the three-pointed star prominent on the grille. Does that mean it’s worth your attention?

It’s safe and fully equipped with some of the technology you’ll find on the company flagship, the impressive Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Although it’s been on sale for several years, the engines are cutting edge, with mild-hybrid tech in the C 200 and a refined 2.0-litre diesel. And it’s unique in its class by being offered in two plug-in hybrid forms – with a petrol or diesel engine married with a 13.5kWh battery pack.

What the C-Class is up against

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is competing in a very tough market sector. It’s a rival to the popular BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 – as well as the less obviously default choices, such as the recently-revised Jaguar XE and Alfa Romeo Giulia. The C-Class is a comfortable and appealing alternative to its competitors, even if its interior quality lags behind the Audi’s despite its posh look. It’s not lacking in tech, though, with an optional 12.3-inch digital display for the driver now added, which complements the centrally-mounted 10.0-inch infotainment screen.

It’s as cheap to run as the best, too, thanks to efficient diesel and petrol options in the mainstream models. If you do want something with a bit more poke, Mercedes has some high-performance options in the range to pick from.

The C-Class does have its faults, though. The poor manual gearbox is best avoided, and steering that’s lacking in feel keeps it from offering a truly sporty driving experience even in the more powerful models. If you want comfort in your compact saloon, come here – if it’s driver involvement you crave, head in Jaguar, Alfa Romeo or BMW’s direction.

What is the best version for you?

The C-Class’ attributes include a huge wealth of equipment for both safety and luxury, a more transparent ownership proposition and a suite of optional extras that make this car feel every inch the baby S-Class. Two extras we’d urge any C-Class buyer to try before committing include the air suspension (which dramatically improves comfort levels), and the head-up display which shows sat-nav and speed limit information on the windscreen.

Though the entry-level is the S (or SE if you want more than 156hp), the Sport is really the best starting point for the C-Class. You get larger 18-inch wheels, multibeam LED headlights (a hugely desirable addition), parking sensors, lowered suspension, and an appealing interior package as standard. Even then, the majority of cars you’ll see on the road are AMG Line models with a desirable sporty body kit and sharper look, plus more sophisticated interior trim.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class engines

Remove the badges, and the C-Class you’re about to overtake could have 156hp. Ot it could have 510hp (though the C 63 S does stand out a little bit). Petrol engines span 1.6-litre in the C 180, to the 4.0-litre V8 of the aforementioned C 63 S. There’s also a choice of plug-in or mild hybrid models.

There are a pair of plug-in hybrids too – the C 300 e petrol plug-in and the C 300 de plug-in. This pair have been added for 2020 and you are both highly efficient and offer very competitive battery-only range for city dwellers. Full details of the power and performance figures of these new hybrids can be found in the Engines section of this review.

If you prefer diesel there’s one engine – but in three states of tune, including one hybrid version. The 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder offers 194, 245 or 306hp (combined) and ample torque. All except the C 180 come with a nine-speed automatic transmission – the six-speed manual is not a high-point of C-Class ownership.

Well made and full of technology inside

Sharing much of its interior design with the larger E- and S-Class saloons, the C-Class is luxurious inside and certainly looks every inch the premium saloon. Although, probe a little deeper and spend more time in the car and the quality doesn’t always live up to the look.

It doesn’t feel as solid as the Audi A4 inside. As well as featuring some of the advanced technologies available in the S-Class, the C-Class comes complete with the firm’s latest infotainment systems and driver assistance tech, with the usual scroll wheel and touchpad for controlling the majority of the car’s functions.

Built into the hand rest on the central control panel, the touchpad enables drivers to control all the functions in the same way we use smartphones and tablets. It also allows letters and numbers to be entered using the handwriting recognition tool – similar to the set-ups you see on BMW and Audi cars.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz C-Class including its practicality, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.