The 2015 C-Class is offered in two basic trims, the C300 4MATIC and the C400 4MATIC. As their names imply, both new C-Class models are all-wheel drive, though in the coming years Mercedes-Benz expects to expand the C-Class line to include more variants, including rear-wheel drive offerings. The C300 is powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine displacing 2.0L and making a stout 241 hp. The C400 is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged 6-cylinder making 329 horsepower. In either form, the only transmission available is an efficient 7-speed automatic, which uses its many ratios to keep fuel economy reasonable. Even when equipped with its all-wheel drive, the C300 is rated at 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Like most European luxury cars, the C-Class can be optioned up with a huge variety of convenience and luxury features. However the base model C300 4Matic does come with quite a few amenities on its own. Standard features include a 14-way power adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, two high resolution screens with a touchpad interface, USB connectivity, Bluetooth audio streaming, and LED daytime running lamps.
The C400 4MATIC includes everything on the C300 4MATIC plus a Burmester premium sound system, heated front seats, sport tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels and of course, a bigger, more-powerful engine.
An optional Interior Package adds leather seating, perforated and ventilated front seats, a powered front passenger seat and some additional interior lighting. An Air-Balance Package further spruces up the interior environment with an air purifier and a cabin fragrance system that will perfume the air in the C-Class.
A Multimedia Package includes a navigation system, as well as a rear view camera and SiriusXM satellite radio.
An adjustable air suspension system that can be set for sport of for comfort is available on the C-Class as is a Driver's Assistance Package which includes safety features such as blind spot assist and Mercedes-Benz' PRE-SAFE system, which can actually activate the brakes on its own, should it detect an impending accident.
Standard safety equipment on C-Class models includes nine airbags as well as adaptive braking technology, attention assist and of course all-wheel drive is available.
Attractive Modern Styling
High End Features
Typical Mercedes Luxury
All-wheel Drive
Powerful Turbocharged Engines
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been totally redesigned for 2015. The new C-Class is sharply styled and looks very similar to its larger, more expensive sibling, the S-Class. The C-Class also inherits much of that vehicle's technology, helping to make it both safer and more comfortable than before. This year's redesign also benefits from two brand new engines for the C-Class.
The C-Class has traditionally been Mercedes-Benz' entry-level car. However with the arrival of the CLA, the C-Class is no longer the German automaker's least expensive model. Mercedes-Benz has packed the 2015 C-Class full of upscale technology, determined to make the car feel anything but entry level. Despite this move upmarket, pricing on the C-Class remains competitive with other European small sedans such as the BMW 3-series. The 2015 C-Class starts at around $40,000.