Name: Mercedes-Benz C-class Review
Item: Mercedes-Benz C-class
Author: Gumtree.com

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class – first introduced in 1993 and released as a fourth-generation in 2018 – continues to be a best seller. The latest iteration of the model comes with an exciting range of petrol and diesel engines, with a heavy focus on hybrid technology and fuel economy. The new C-Class boasts an advanced set of digital features that it inherited from higher spec models within its class. Mercedes has designed four different trim levels, each with a unique customisable design and a dizzying array of engine options and body styles.

Visit the Mercedes-Benz model page for prices, specs and trim details.

What we think about the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz has delivered another tech-heavy executive saloon in the shape of the new C-Class – a perfect blend of luxury and performance.

Pros

Refined and advanced tech systems

Excellent safety features

Comfortable and elegant interior

Cons

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Limited warranty

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Lots of add-ons will increase the price

In 2020, Mercedes-Benz introduced two new plug-in hybrid versions of the C-Class to complement its petrol and diesel engine options. Advanced safety and driving technology are available depending on your trims of choice, and excellent fuel economy can be expected, particularly from the new hybrids.

Driving performance of the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Driving Rating8 / 10

The latest C-Class delivers another high-performance masterclass from Mercedes, with a new set of petrol and hybrid engines to compete with the fuel economy of their successful diesel range. The hybrid’s electronic function runs through its alternator, rather than additional batteries or motors, which gives a smoother feel to the engine. Its nine-speed standard gearbox is incredibly impressive, allowing you to glide through the gears, while its grippy tyres and slick handling give the C-Class’ cornering an executive feel.

Safety and reliability of the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Safety Rating9 / 10

Mercedes prides itself on reaching the highest standards in safety, both in the form of advanced technical features and design, and the latest C-Class is no exception. In its 2018 Euro NCAP crash tests, the C-Class was awarded a five-star rating. While the 2020 iterations, including the hybrid models, are yet to receive a rating, we expect nothing less than the full five stars. Seven airbags are included as standard, and optional extras include features such as Attention Assist, which notifies the driver if the car senses they are tired.

Under the bonnet of the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Engine Rating8 / 10

The entry-level C-Class comes with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, producing 156 bhp and a 1.5-litre turbocharged mild-hybrid petrol engine – EQ Boost – which produces a mighty 184 bhp. The 1.5-litre version will eclipse 62mph in 7.7 seconds, while the 2.0-litre version will do 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds, thanks to its 258 bhp turbocharged petrol engine. There are two diesel engines, and both are based on the same 2.0-litre twin-turbo design, but one delivers 194 bhp and the other offers 245 bhp.

What you'll find in the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Design Rating8 / 10

Mercedes-Benz faces the difficult task of giving a facelift to a model that has been an established bestseller across four generations – balancing tradition with progressive design. Mercedes has given the front face a slight re-design, with a long front bonnet directing you to its iconic three-pointed star, and its luxurious length feels elegant rather than bulky. Chrome accents around the side glass, a hint of traditional bling and a strong character line across the top of the doors are just some of the thoughtful touches added by the Mercedes team.

Comfort and interiors in the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

The C-Class is a practical car, with space for four adults to comfortably sit for a long journey. There’s a generous amount of adjustment space in the front, and the rear seat backs recline – so every passenger should be able to enjoy a degree of luxury. You can expect plenty of storage space in the cabin, with a deep cargo hold beneath the armrest and a spacious glove box in the dashboard. The boot offers 455 litres of space, which should be plenty for any family adventure.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class interior dashboard

What features you'll find in the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Features Rating8 / 10

The C-Class provides an expected mix of practical accessories as standard, including 18-inch alloy wheels and a leather-trimmed steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls. The all-digital 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and the 10-inch media display are the core of the interior features of the latest C-Class model, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard. Five driving modes allow you to adjust the engine, transmission, handling and suspension to your liking. Active Parking Assist and adaptive cruise control are also available as standard.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

Mercedes’ EQ hybrid models easily grab the headlines, given their phenomenal efficiency. The petrol engines offer a range of 141-188 mpg and the diesel manages a staggering 176-256 mpg. The C-Class’ hybrids achieve the lowest emissions figures, giving out only 32 g/km and 33 g/km of CO2 respectively. The petrol engine still has impressively low emissions, averaging between 108 and 118 g/km, while the diesel produces between 117 and 126 g/km of CO2.

Running costs of the Mercedes Benz C Class

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

Mercedes-Benz remains reluctant to budge on their offering of a three-year warranty. This may seem a little stingy, but it combines this with free road care assistance for three years. It’s recommended that you should service the C-Class once every 12 months, or up to every 22,500 miles reached, depending on how often you drive. The problems with its AdBlue emissions have been well documented and the Mercedes customer care team are quick to find solutions to any problems, but if you’re buying a used C-Class, we would recommend to check these issues have been fixed.

Our verdict of the Mercedes Benz C Class

4.5 / 5 Gumtree rating

The best parts of the C-Class remain intact, yet Mercedes has refined the interior and improved the fuel economy on the latest iteration, delivering an excellent luxury family car.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review