Of all the recent introductions, one of the most impressive is Mercedes-Benz's new compact luxury sedan, the C-Class.
Now in its fifth generation, the C-Class has always been an important car for Mercedes-Benz. The previous generation was one of the best selling vehicles in its lineup, making it a staple for the brand. Competing with the likes of BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Lexus IS, the new C-Class has moved more upmarket to provide a compelling case in this competitive segment. The recently introduced CLA-Class is the new entry-level car which allows the C-Class to move upscale in both the design and price point.
Design
All-new for 2015, the C-Class is larger, lighter and it offers more luxury features than its predecessor.
With Mercedes-Benz giving its whole range a makeover — including its flagship S-Class — you can definitely see how the brand is trying to carry similar design elements into the C-Class.
However, the C-Class is still a very different car. Thanks to its dimensions and exterior proportions, it gives off a sportier and more youthful appeal.
The C-Class is now available with many features previously only available on the larger and more expensive models, the E-Class and S-Class. As a result, in terms of safety, convenience, and luxury features, it sets a whole new standard.
The front grille is aggressive, and mixed with the sweeping character lines and short overhangs, gives it a more purposeful appearance than the CLA. The short overhung rear design brings a balance to the overall look.
Standard static LED headlights are added to the already standard LED taillights. Active LED high performance headlights are available as an option.
The business-like cabin of the old C-Class has been replaced by a welcoming and attractive interior. There is an array of wood and aluminum finishes to choose from.
Overall, the new C-Class looks much more expensive than it actually costs.
Performance
The C-Class will never be a weekend autocross racer, but thanks to this model's reduced weight and improved engineering, it feels more spirited all around. While you are insulated from the road and steering feedback is a little muted, the chassis is solid and provides crisp handling. In fact, I would say that the steering feel of the C-Class is far better than even-more-numb Lexus IS or BMW 3 Series. C 300 models come with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 241 horsepower and 273 foot-pounds of torque.
Those interested in more performance can opt for the C 400, which has a 3.0-litre V-6 that produces impressive 329 h.p. and 354 foot-pounds of torque. The only drivetrain available is Mercedes' 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive system. This serves to improve traction and driving stability. Providing smooth shifting is an updated seven-speed automatic transmission that has a quick, crisp feel both up and down the shifting process.
The new C-Class is the first in this segment to come with full air suspension. It limits road noise and vibration thanks to electronically controlled, continuous variable damping. Agility Select allows you to choose between four distinctive characteristics - Comfort, ECO, Sport and Sport+. This system is superior to anything else on the road, and brings the road feel of the C-Class a few notches above its competitors.
The new C-Class features many of the new driver assistance systems that have debuted on the S-Class a few months ago. These systems enhance both comfort and safety. Protecting against low-speed collisions is an Adaptive Brake Assist, but Collision Prevention Assist Plus is now standard and it can carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour. This system can also brake for stationary vehicles from up to 50 km/h and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 40 km/h. Another favourite feature is Distronic Plus with Steering Assist. This is a semi-automatic traffic jam assistant that is able to follow the vehicle ahead, even where lane markings are unclear of lacking, at speeds under 60 km/h.
Environment
The cabin of the C-Class is elegant and functional — the materials were carefully chosen for their touch and feel and the craftsmanship is precise and impressive. The driver and front passenger are granted plenty of space and luxury appointments. Mercedes-Benz wanted the C-Class to feel like flying in a first class cabin, and I think they've achieved it.
The increase to the C-Class' size was to account for consumer desire to have more and more space. Rear passengers benefit the most from the additional 3.7 inches in length — they now travel in even more comfort. The cargo also reaps the rewards of the larger size and the C-Class's trunk has grown to 17 cubic feet as a result.
A large one-piece centre console panel splits the cabin from air vents to armrest. The free-standing display is eye-catching, but can look a bit like an afterthought.
Use of the infotainment is channelled through the innovative touchpad in the handrest. Operation is reasonably intuitive and the touchpad can recognize letters, numbers and special characters in any language. Tactile feedback is given to the user to further ease use. Also new to the C-Class is a heads-up display that includes more information than the typical version found in other vehicles. Like a modern aircraft, important information is projected onto the windshield in the driver's field of vision, thus allowing their eyes to remain on the road ahead.
Features
The C 300 starts at $43,000, while the C 400 starts at $51,400. Standard equipment includes heated front seats, driver memory settings, automatic climate control, auto dimming and heated exterior mirrors, automatic lights, rain sensing windshield wipers, blind spot monitor, and Attention Assist.
Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include online navigation, panoramic sunroof, rearview camera, active parking assist, and the Intelligent Drive Package Fuel efficiency numbers (litres/100 kilometres) for the C 300 are 10.1 city and 7.8 highway. The C 400 returns 11.1 city and 8.4 highway.
Thumbs up
The C-Class makes the daily commute a joy, and thanks to its intelligent technologies, traffic jams are no longer a threat.
Thumbs down
Not much to complain about this first-class model, other than perhaps that its durability is yet to be determined because it's the first time C-Class is being produced at Mercedes' U.S. plant.
The bottom line
The 2015 C-Class is an impressive luxury car with all the modern and traditional amenities that can only be found in more expensive vehicles.
Competitors
BMW 3 Series: The BMW 3 Series has been the benchmark for entry-level luxury sedans for almost 30 years. For sport enthusiasts, the BMW offers the most performance oriented option in this segment. The 3 Series begins at a very buyer-friendly $35,990 and ranges up to $58,300.
Audi A4: The A4 continues to be a leader in this competitive market. Its beautifully refined interior makes efficient use of space making it feel larger than it is. Audi's attention to detail and efficiency make the A4 an attractive choice. The base A4 starts at $37,800, the adventurous A4 allroad at $47,300, and the sporty S4 at $54,100.
Lexus IS: The new IS is one of the most visually appealing in this segment and adds a refined, sporty ride to the Lexus reputation of long-term reliability and value. If you want something luxurious and refined, yet a capable performer, the 2014 Lexus IS certainly deserves to be on your shortlist. Starting prices for the 2014 IS range from $37,900 to $50,350.
