The Complete Guide To The Mercedes-Benz C-Class

C refers to ‘compact’ and when the model was first launched in 1993 it was the smallest Mercedes available. Since then the C-Class has been available in saloon, estate, coupe and convertible variants and has always been one of the most popular models for the brand. Now in its fifth generation the 2022 C-Class is available as an estate or saloon and is much larger, more stylish, more luxurious, and more advanced. Much of the technology and style in the C-Class is based on the flagship S-Class model including the stunning interior with a large 11.9” central display and a second digital driver’s display. 

The C-Class is initially available with a choice of four mild hybrid petrol and diesel engines, as well as a plug-in hybrid model with a range of over 60 miles. With high performance AMG models likely to join the range soon.

To find out more, continue reading our guide or click below to visit the Inchcape Mercedes-Benz C-Class model page.

Walking up to the new C-Class the first thing you notice are the flowing lines inspired by the larger S-Class. The extended wheelbase and widened track of the new C-Class give a more dynamic look. This combined with the new Mercedes-Benz design DNA, sculptured surfaces, minimalist styling and upright grille give the C-Class a striking yet understated look. 

Other exterior touches inspired by the flagship S-Class include the unmistakable light design, horizontal taillights, and chrome highlights. 

The models we tested were both in AMG trim which adds further to the dramatic appearance with sportier, larger alloy wheels, redesigned front and rear bumpers, rear diffuser, upgraded front grille, and AMG body kit. 

The interior of the new Mercedes C-Class is a real highlight with the S-Class inspired trend continuing throughout. With a driver-oriented cabin and a mix of luxury materials and surfaces giving a real feel of quality. This is completed with the 64-colour ambient lighting which highlights the surfaces and illuminates features such as the door handles and air vents and looks stunning during the day and at night. 

The interior isn’t all style and no substance though with comfortable and adjustable seats and class leading technology. The standard fit 11.9” portrait central touch screen is large and clear. It controls all the navigation, climate control, settings, and entertainment features of the car. There is a second digital driver’s display with several different ‘views’ for the screen and ways to customise the information shown to you. The voice assistant is intelligent and control a variety of functions, offering a safe way to operate the car’s features whilst on the move. To activate the voice assistant all you do is say ‘Hey Mercedes’. And with over-the-air updates the system will improve even more over time with added features. 

Being surrounded by the stunning interior and its technology makes every drive in the C-Class feel special. The Mercedes C-Class prioritises comfort which makes the car a relaxing long-distance cruiser, whilst the excellent suspension irons out potholes and imperfections in the road to ensure a smooth drive. The steering is also set up for comfort with a light and effortless motion, but a direct and accurate feel. Whilst the driver assistance technology makes it even easier to drive with adaptive cruise control, lane assist and radars monitoring the traffic ahead. 

The C-Class may be comfortable but switch into sport or sport plus mode and it comes alive, sharpening up and making a twisty road even more rewarding. The AMG Line models increase the dynamic feel further with their lowered ride heights and firmer suspension. 

The C-Class is even easy to manoeuvre at slow speeds and in tight spaces due to its small turning circle and features such as the 360 cameras which provide an excellent view of the car and park assist function. 

Book a test drive with Inchcape to experience the new C-Class for yourself. 

Desirability comes as standard. 

Features include: 

• 17" Alloy wheels with diamond cut finish.
• 11.9" Central touchscreen and 12.3" driver's display.
• Agility Control suspension.
• Interior light package.
• Keyless-Go.
• Parking package with reversing camera.
• Mirror package

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With added AMG dynamic looks.

Features include: 

• 18" AMG alloy wheels with high sheen finish.
• AMG front and rear bumpers.
• Dashboard in Artico leather.
• Sports steering wheel in Nappa leather.
• Privacy glass.
• Stainless steel sports pedals.

Click to view the latest Inchcape Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers.

With added luxury.

Features include: 

• 19" AMG alloy wheels painted in Himalayas grey with high sheen finish.
• Adaptive high beam assist.
• Ambient lighting.
• DIGITAL LIGHT.
• Augmented reality navigation.
• Parking package with 360 cameras.

Click to view the latest Inchcape Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers.

The ultimate C-Class.

Features include: 

• 19" AMG alloy wheels painted in black with high sheen finish.
• Head-up display.
• Panoramic sliding roof.
• THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control.

Click to view the latest Inchcape Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers.

The C-Class is available with a range of petrol and diesel engines all with hybrid power. There are two petrol engines initially; the 1.5l C200 and the 2.0l C300. The C200 has 204hp plus 20hp from the mild hybrid system, the C300 has 258hp plus 20hp. The C300 can accelerate from 0-62mph in 6 seconds and both petrol choices are smooth and refined, coming with a 9 speed automatic as standard. 

The C220d and C300d diesels both use a 2.0l engine with mild hybrid assistance. The C220d has 200hp plus 20hp from the hybrid technology and the C300d has 265hp plus another 20hp. The C220d can return up to 58.9mpg. 

The mild hybrid technology uses a small electric motor to increase efficiency and assist acceleration. 

The C300e is a plug-in hybrid with a total power output of 333hp which allows acceleration from 0-62mph in just 6.1 seconds whilst also managing to return up to 470.9mpg and 62 miles pure electric range. 

A hardcore performance AMG version is expected to arrive shortly to replace the current C63 AMG.

Click to explore the Mercedes-Benz Electric and Hybrid Range.

The 64-colour ambient lighting highlights the stunning style and lines of the C-Class’s interior. They can support animations, colour gradients, events such as changing the temperature, help aid the car’s safety features or be set to one of 64 colours of your choosing. 

The digital cockpit of the C-Class is made up of several features including a larger and more colourful heads up display, augmented reality navigation, a large central touchscreen and Mercedes personal assistant activated by voice control. 

The C-Class comes with a range of driver assist programs which making driving safer, more comfortable, and less tiring. 

The Active Distance Assist automatically adapts your speed to the traffic around you, being able to bring the car to a stop and start moving again in traffic. All you have to do is set the desired distance to the car in front. 

The Driving Assistance Plus Package uses numerous assistants to support in all kinds of situations, can warn if there is danger of a collision and intervene if needed. Whilst other functions can help protect the occupants in a collision such as Pre Safe which emits a noise to close your ear drums which helps prevent them getting damaged. 

The mild hybrid technology in the C-Class uses an electric motor and the combustion engine at the same time. The electric motor is used to add torque to make the driving experience more effortless, reduce fuel consumption and provide extra power when needed. The battery is charged through energy recuperation when braking. 

Open the electrically operated tailgate and in the saloon you’re greeted with a 455l boot whilst the estate offers 490l. Plus both models come with buttons in the boot to lower the rear seats, storage nets, power points and underfloor storage. 

Inside the C-Class’s interior features large door bins which can fit a large bottle, a glovebox, twin cupholders and a central storage cubby. 

The C-Class estate is the model to choose if practicality is a priority for you. 

The 2022 Mercedes C-Class benefits massively from adopting S-Class inspired technology and styling. It is better in every way compared to the previous model, with stunning looks, advanced technology, and a luxurious interior. 

These features combined with the powerful and efficient mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid engine choices available and AMG versions on the way mean there is a C Class for everyone. 

The C-Class combines comfort and driving dynamics with an interior like none of its competition, this could well be a class leader and should definitely be on your short list if you’re in the market for a premium compact saloon or estate. 

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