Starting at $42,650
8.5/10
C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
Mercedes-Benz
8.5/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
Select a year
- Highs Upscale design inside and out, comfortable ride quality, plenty of standard features.
- Lows Not as quick as some four-cylinder rivals, so-so fuel economy numbers, small trunk.
- Verdict The C-class provides the premium feel, technology features, and classy design that you’d expect in a small Benz.
Overview
Some entry-luxury cars are too sporty and others are too soft, but Mercedes-Benz’s C-class falls in the sweet spot. It even earned a spot on our Editors' Choice list. In its standard C300 form, it combines a quiet and comfortable ride with just the right amount of handling acuity—and if you want more power and performance, Mercedes offers the AMG C43 and C63 models, which we review separately. The C300 is available in sedan, coupe, and convertible models. Although the current generation is nearing the end of its life cycle, it still has plenty of modern technology, and its interior and exterior designs have aged well. A redesigned C-class is expected to arrive within the next year or so.
What's New for 2021?
A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is newly standard across the board, as are heated front seats. Plus, the sedan can be had with a Night package that adds black exterior trim.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-class starts at $42,650 and goes up to $55,750 depending on the trim and options.
Unless you desire an open-air experience or the extra style of the coupe, the sedan is the most sensible and satisfying of the C-class models. The C300 comes standard with rear-wheel drive; Benz's 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is a $2000 option. Of the many available extras, we’d consider the $1500 Premium package, which adds SiriusXM satellite radio, an upgraded audio system, and ambient lighting. But beware that many of the option packages are bundled together and can push the price of a sedan well beyond $50,000.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine powers all C300 models and generates 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, getting the Mercedes off the line without delay. A nine-speed automatic transmission performs shifting duties. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but you can get all-wheel drive (called 4Matic) for two grand more. In our testing of a C300 4Matic sedan, the car hit 60 mph in a sprightly 5.4 seconds. The engine is appropriately muted at idle and at highway speeds, but its soundtrack at full throttle is less pleasing than you'd expect. In our recent comparison test of entry-luxury sports sedans, the C300’s acceleration results put it about midpack, as the BMW 330i and Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.0T were quicker.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The most fuel-efficient choice in the C-class lineup is the rear-drive C300, with EPA ratings of 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, but the 4Matic isn’t far behind, managing 23 and 33 mpg, respectively. Rivals such as the BMW 3-series offer better fuel economy (up to 26 mpg city and 36 mpg highway). A rear-drive C300 coupe we tested achieved a real-world result of 33 mpg on the highway—2 mpg better than its EPA rating.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The look and feel of the C-class cabin is appropriately ritzy, although it’s not as modern-looking as some of the newer models in Mercedes lineup, such as the recently redesigned S-class. A touchscreen hovers above a sleek center stack that hosts three circular air vents. The switchgear feels weighty and substantial, and opting for the available leather upholstery and wood interior accents takes the cabin even further uptown. Sedans offer 13 cubic feet of trunk space. That figure is on par with the cargo capacity of the Audi A4, but it's a lot less than you'll get with the BMW 3-series, which delivers 17 cubic feet.
View Photos
Infotainment and Connectivity
Mercedes-Benz equips the base C-class with a 7.0-inch central display screen, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Dual USB ports are standard, along with HD radio and a five-speaker sound system. If you want a bit more screen space, you can upgrade to a 10.3-inch central color display. Other options include a Burmester surround-sound audio system and an integrated navigation system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-class hasn't yet been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick +, earning a top score of Good in all crashworthiness measures. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking
- Available lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Mercedes-Benz C-class provides a warranty that's on par with the coverage offered by many of its rivals. Keep in mind, though, that you'll get longer warranty protection with the Genesis G70.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2019 Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupe
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe
PRICE AS TESTED
$61,210 (base price: $44,795)
ENGINE TYPE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement
122 cu in, 1991 cc
Power
255 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque
273 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 13.0-in vented disc/11.8-in vented disc
Tires: Continental ContiSportContact 5P SSR, F: 225/40R-19 93Y MOE R: 255/35R-19 96Y MOE
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 111.8 in
Length: 184.5 in
Width: 71.3 in
Height: 55.3 in
Passenger volume: 80 cu ft
Trunk volume: 11 cu ft
Curb weight: 3648 lb
C/D
TEST RESULTS
Zero to 60 mph: 5.6 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 14.5 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 27.5 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 6.4 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 3.4 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 4.8 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 14.2 sec @ 99 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 132 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 163 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad*: 0.91 g
*stability-control-inhibited
C/D
FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 22 mpg
75-mph highway driving: 37 mpg
Highway range: 640 miles
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 25/22/31 mpg
More Features and Specs
Shopping Tools
What's My Car Worth?
Car and Driver values are calculated from the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.
Get Estimate
Insurance Marketplace
See what you can save on car insurance.
Learn More
Auto Loans & Financing
Our finance experts answer any questions you may have about financing a vehicle.
Learn More
Similar Vehicles
2024 BMW 3-Series
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,495
EPA MPGe
68–73 combined
C/D SAYS: The 3-series remains the sports sedan standard, combining an athletic chassis and luxurious cabin with an array of powerful and sophisticated powertrains. Learn More
BMW BMW 3-Series Model Years
- View 2024 BMW 3-Series DetailsStarting at $45,495 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 BMW 3-Series DetailsStarting at $44,795 · 9.5/10
2024 Audi A5 Sportback
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$47,295
EPA MPG
27–30 combined
C/D SAYS: The A5 Sportback is as easy and fun to drive as the A5 coupe, and also offers junior A7 style, more room for people and luggage, and better fuel economy. Learn More
Audi Audi A5 Sportback Model Years
- View 2024 Audi A5 Sportback DetailsStarting at $47,295 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Audi A5 Sportback DetailsStarting at $45,695 · 8.5/10
2024 Genesis G70
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$42,750
EPA MPG
20–24 combined
C/D SAYS: The Genesis G70 is almost the total entry-luxury sedan package, with dynamic looks, a fine cabin, potent power and handling, and value pricing. Learn More
Genesis Genesis G70 Model Years
- View 2024 Genesis G70 DetailsStarting at $42,750 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Genesis G70 DetailsStarting at $40,525 · 8.5/10
2024 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$49,295
EPA MPG
25–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The considerably capable BMW 4-series Gran Coupe is well equipped and offers the aesthetic allure of a sporty two-door with the practicality of a sedan. Learn More
BMW BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe Model Years
- View 2024 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe DetailsStarting at $49,295 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe DetailsStarting at $46,895 · 8.5/10
2024 Audi A4
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$42,995
EPA MPG
27–30 combined
C/D SAYS: The A4 combines a satisfying driving experience, standard all-wheel drive, and a stout build in an understated yet elegant premium sedan. Learn More
Audi Audi A4 Model Years
- View 2024 Audi A4 DetailsStarting at $42,995 · 8/10
- View 2023 Audi A4 DetailsStarting at $41,395 · 8/10
2024 Audi A5
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$49,495
EPA MPG
27 combined
C/D SAYS: A punchy engine, an agile suspension, and fine steering make the A5 easy to drive, while fetching lines and plenty of cargo room make it a compelling coupe. Learn More
Audi Audi A5 Model Years
- View 2024 Audi A5 DetailsStarting at $49,495 · 8/10
- View 2023 Audi A5 DetailsStarting at $47,795 · 8/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$57,650
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Available in both coupe and convertible forms, the new CLE-class bridges the gap between the C-class and E-class coupes and looks better than both in the process. Learn More
2025 BMW 4-Series
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$51,695
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: With two satisfying powertrains and European furnishings, the 2025 BMW 4-Series coupe and convertible blend luxury and performance in a fun, stylish package. Learn More
BMW BMW 4-Series Model Years
- View 2025 BMW 4-Series DetailsStarting at $51,695 · 8/10
- View 2024 BMW 4-Series DetailsStarting at $50,895 · 8/10
2024 Volvo S60
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$43,645
EPA MPGe
74 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Volvo S60 succeeds as a comfortable, stylish sedan but falls short as a driver's car, which isn't a dealbreaker for folks who prefer the former. Learn More
Volvo Volvo S60 Model Years
- View 2024 Volvo S60 DetailsStarting at $43,645 · 8/10
- View 2023 Volvo S60 DetailsStarting at $42,395 · 8/10
2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,935
EPA MPG
26–27 combined
C/D SAYS: Few sports sedans can match the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia when it comes to joyful road manners, and as a bonus, it wears a stunning wardrobe of Italian couture. Learn More
Alfa Romeo Alfa Romeo Giulia Model Years
- View 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia DetailsStarting at $44,935 · 8/10
- View 2023 Alfa Romeo Giulia DetailsStarting at $45,875 · 8/10
2024 Acura TLX
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$46,195
EPA MPG
21–25 combined
C/D SAYS: With updated looks, available all-wheel drive, and up to 355 horsepower, the 2024 Acura TLX is a bona fide sports sedan. Learn More
Acura Acura TLX Model Years
- View 2024 Acura TLX DetailsStarting at $46,195 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 Acura TLX DetailsStarting at $41,245 · 7.5/10
2024 Lexus IS
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,235
EPA MPG
20–25 combined
C/D SAYS: The aggressively styled 2024 Lexus IS is more of a sports sedan than its brand stablemates but still less hard-edged than its German rivals. Learn More
Lexus Lexus IS Model Years
- View 2024 Lexus IS DetailsStarting at $41,235 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 Lexus IS DetailsStarting at $41,235 · 7.5/10
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
More From Mercedes-Benz
2024 Mercedes-Benz EQB
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$54,200
EPA Est. Range
221–245 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQB's appeal is that it's so similar to its gas-burning counterpart that it little effort for drivers to transition to the EV lifestyle. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz EQB Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQB DetailsStarting at $54,200 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB DetailsStarting at $53,900 · 7.5/10
- View 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB DetailsStarting at $55,550 · 7.5/10
2025 Mercedes-Benz EQG
Starting at
$150,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Mercedes is future-proofing the iconic G-class by creating the EQG, keeping the off-road chops but replacing the V-8 engine with electric motors and batteries. Learn More
2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$105,550
EPA Est. Range
330–339 miles
C/D SAYS: From its posh cabin to its strong performance, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS offers all of the deliverables you’d expect of an S-class SUV—except a need for gas. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV DetailsStarting at $105,550 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV DetailsStarting at $105,550 · 8/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$144,150
EPA MPG
14 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 G-Class blends paramilitary styling with lavish interior appointments and a rowdy turbocharged V-8 for a one-of-a-kind automotive experience. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz G-Class Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $144,150 · 8/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $141,050 · 8/10
- View 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $140,950 · 8/10
- View 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $132,800 · 8/10
- View 2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $131,895 · 8/10
- View 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $125,495 · 8/10
- View 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $124,595 · 6/10
- View 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class DetailsStarting at $123,395 · 6/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$52,195
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van’s price premium over rivals pays for additional refinement, configurability, and tech options. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at $52,195 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at $45,795 · 8.5/10
- View 2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at $39,945 · 8.5/10
- View 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at $38,000 · 8.5/10
- View 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at $35,690 · 8.5/10
- View 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
- View 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
- View 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class EV
Starting at
$55,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Mercedes-Benz's next entry-level CLA-class will include an all-electric model previewed by the stunning Concept CLA show car. Learn More
2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$76,050
EPA Est. Range
280–298 miles
C/D SAYS: Despite a spacious interior and impressive real-world range, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan doesn’t feel like it belongs to the brand. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz EQE Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE DetailsStarting at $76,050 · 8/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE DetailsStarting at $76,050 · 8/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$79,650
EPA Est. Range
265–307 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV's smooth, rounded appearance doesn't look like other crossovers, but it's no less of a luxury vehicle. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV DetailsStarting at $79,650 · 8/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV DetailsStarting at $79,050 · 8/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$105,550
EPA Est. Range
345–352 miles
C/D SAYS: The Mercedes-Benz EQS EV abounds with luxury and enough tech to rival NASA but is more alluring for its technology than its character or driving dynamics. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz EQS Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS DetailsStarting at $105,550 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS DetailsStarting at $105,550 · 8/10
- View 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS DetailsStarting at $105,450 · 8/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$74,181
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Move over Ford E-Transit, Mercedes-Benz has entered the electric van segment with the 2024 eSprinter, which should offeraround 230 miles of driving per charge. Learn More
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,800
EPA MPG
27–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-class makes the most out of its subcompact size with a wide cabin and no shortage of traditional Mercedes luxury. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class DetailsStarting at $45,800 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class DetailsStarting at $40,950 · 8.5/10
- View 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class DetailsStarting at $39,650 · 8.5/10
- View 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class DetailsStarting at $39,100 · 8.5/10
- View 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class DetailsStarting at $37,595 · 8.5/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$48,600
EPA MPG
27–29 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 GLC-class takes everything we like about the Mercedes-Benz C-class sedan—including posh digs and high-tech features—and wraps it in an SUV body. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Model Years
- View 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at $48,600 · 9/10
- View 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at $48,250 · 9/10
- View 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at $44,900 · 8.5/10
- View 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at $44,250 · 8.5/10
- View 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at $43,495 · 8.5/10
- View 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at N/A · 7/10
- View 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at $41,045 · 7/10
- View 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class DetailsStarting at $40,145 · 6/10
