Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Mercedes C-Class review – comfortable and drives better than before

"The Mercedes C-Class is a desirable car with a fantastic interior, plus with hybrid tech it’s supremely efficient too"

Carbuyer Rating

4.3 out of 5

Owners Rating
Be the first to review
Price
£45,120 - £59,450

Pros

  • Stunning interior
  • Comfortable
  • C 300 e has an impressive electric range

Cons

  • Small boot
  • Running costs
  • BMW 3 Series still better to drive

Verdict – is the Mercedes C-Class a good car?

Supreme comfort, a great interior and the arrival of fuel-saving hybrid technology all adds up to a C-Class that’s even more complete than before. While newcomers and traditional rivals alike can offer advantages in one area or another, few appeal to both the head and the heart as strongly as the Mercedes. However, some versions still have fairly steep running costs and we wish the boot was bigger.

Mercedes C-Class models, specs and alternatives

Looking for something upmarket and comfortable but not as big as a Mercedes E-Class or BMW 5 Series? – that’s where the Mercedes C-Class comes in. The C-Class is the German brand’s mid-size executive saloon car and it rivals the BMW 3 Series and traditionally the Audi A4 (though the latter has been reborn as the A5). Unlike some rivals, Mercedes has always put the onus on comfort, rather than driving appeal for the standard C-Class. That said, while the BMW 3 Series is still the driver’s choice, this generation of Mercedes C-Class has closed the gap somewhat, as it feels better to drive than ever before.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The latest Mercedes C-Class doesn’t sport a particularly ground-breaking design in comparison to its predecessor, but that’s not a terrible thing. Instead, its subtle, but classy design is in-keeping with larger cars from the brand’s lineup, featuring the trademark wide grille and angular LED headlights with a long, sculpted bonnet.

Best company carsThe best company cars 2024

A standout area in modern Mercedes cars are its stylish, modern interior designs. The C-Class uses lots of high-quality materials and cutting-edge displays, but the actual shape and design of the cabin is rather more striking than the conservative exterior might suggest. There are stylish circular air vents and a swooping, cocooning centre console where the infotainment lays, and classy ambient lighting bathes the cabin.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Executive cars like these are big amongst company-car buyers, and for that reason there are not just petrol and diesel versions on offer, but also a plug-in hybrid that produces lower emissions to help reduce BiK (Benefit-in-Kind) tax costs.

The non plug-in hybrid cars all get mild-hybrid assistance; the range starts with the C 200 petrol followed by the C 220 d diesel. For added performance there’s also a petrol C 300 and diesel C 300 d. The C 300 e plug-in hybrid petrol is the most expensive, but it’s also the most powerful of the standard lineup and has the potential to be the cheapest to run. You can drive it for up to 71 miles on electric power alone, which makes it versatile and means you can do lots of shorter trips without using a drop of petrol.

Advertisement - Article continues below

For the keen drivers there’s also the sporty and muscular Mercedes-AMG C-Class derivatives, badged the C 43 and C 63 S e. The C 43 is arguably the driver’s choice, because while it may not be as fast as the C 63 S e, the C 43 makes use of a powerful mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the other car is a plug-in hybrid that’s much heavier. The extra weight of the C 63 S e means it’s not quite as sporty to drive as the C 43 – because its electric motor is there to supplement the engine for all that power, you can only expect up to 9 miles on electric power alone in the C 63 S e.

How about a used Mercedes C-Class Mk4?

Mercedes C-Class saloon

Comfortable, brisk, economical and stylish, the C-Class Mk4 saloon is a popular pick on the used car market. And because it was hugely desirable as a company car when it was new, you’ll find a wide selection of them on Britain’s second-hand car forecourts. It has a strong range of turbocharged diesel and petrol engines, plus also offers buyers a choice of mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. 

What’s its history?

The C-Class Mk4 made its UK showroom debut in February 2014 with a limited range of engines and three basic trim grades. Other turbocharged petrol and diesel engines soon joined the line-up, along with mild hybrids and plug-in hybrids: there were also some high-performance AMG derivatives. In 2018 a revamp delivered some styling enhancements, interior design tweaks, equipment upgrades and a revised engine line-up. In July 2021 the fourth generation C-Class made way for the Mk5.

Read our full C-Class Mk4 review...

Used Mercedes C-Class Mk3 (2007-2014)

Mercedes C-Class mk3

Despite its high-powered AMG derivatives, the mainstream C-Class Mk3 range is oriented towards comfort and a relaxed driving experience. Its interiors are classy and there’s a good range of spirited and economical engines.

Read our full C-Class Mk3 review...

Used Mercedes C-Class Mk2 (2000-2007)

Good-looking but notoriously unreliable, the C-Class Mk2 is nevertheless popular with used buyers, which says something about its desirability. Its interiors are stylish, although rear seat space is a little  cramped.

Used Mercedes C-Class Mk1 (1993-2000)

Reliable and classy, the first-generation C-Class set the theme for subsequent models. Refined for its time, it established the acceptance of diesel engines for prestige executive cars. However, rust is a big issue for these early C-Class models, so check carefully before handing over any cash.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Which Is Best?

Cheapest

  • Name
    C200 AMG Line 4dr 9G-Tronic
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £45,120

Most Economical

  • Name
    C300e Urban Edition 4dr 9G-Tronic
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £50,450

Fastest

  • Name
    C300d AMG Line Premium [Pan Roof] 4dr 9G-Tronic
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £54,460

Charlie writes and edits news, review and advice articles for Carbuyer, as well as publishing content to its social media platforms. He has also been a regular contributor to its sister titles Auto Express, DrivingElectric and evo. As well as being consumed by everything automotive, Charlie is a speaker of five languages and once lived in Chile, Siberia and the Czech Republic, returning to the UK to write about his life-long passion: cars.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Volvo XC60 review – left-field mid-size premium SUV
Volvo XC60 front quarter driving
In-depth reviews
21 Nov 2024

Volvo XC60 review – left-field mid-size premium SUV

Volkswagen ID.3 review - solid EV, but infotainment lets it down
Volkswagen ID.3 facelift UK
In-depth reviews
20 Nov 2024

Volkswagen ID.3 review - solid EV, but infotainment lets it down

Renault Captur review – a stylish, good-value small SUV
Renault Captur front quarter driving
In-depth reviews
19 Nov 2024

Renault Captur review – a stylish, good-value small SUV

Toyota RAV4 review – a sensible hybrid SUV with a long warranty
Toyota RAV4 review
In-depth reviews
18 Nov 2024

Toyota RAV4 review – a sensible hybrid SUV with a long warranty

Have You Considered

Audi A5 review – the A4 is gone, replaced by a sleek new BMW 3 Series rival
Audi A5 front handling
In-depth reviews
6 Nov 2024

Audi A5 review – the A4 is gone, replaced by a sleek new BMW 3 Series rival

Citroen C5 X hatchback review
Citroen C5 X front 3/4
In-depth reviews
8 Nov 2023

Citroen C5 X hatchback review

Most Popular

Car tax: VED rates and increases explained 2024/25
Car tax
Tips and advice
4 Nov 2024

Car tax: VED rates and increases explained 2024/25

Ford EcoBoost engines: reliability, problems and should you buy one?
Ford Puma EcoBoost front
Tips and advice
5 Nov 2024

Ford EcoBoost engines: reliability, problems and should you buy one?

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s best PCP finance offers
Carbuyer best new car deals hero
Deals
22 Nov 2024

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s best PCP finance offers

Top 10 best plug-in hybrids on sale today
Best plug-in hybrid cars
Best cars
22 Nov 2024

Top 10 best plug-in hybrids on sale today

There are now more plug-in hybrids to choose from than ever before – we showcase the 10 best
The best company cars 2024
Best company cars
Best cars
15 Nov 2024

The best company cars 2024

A good company car needs to be comfy, efficient and affordable – here are your best options
Top 10 best used hybrid cars 2024
Best used hybrid cars
Best cars
16 Oct 2024

Top 10 best used hybrid cars 2024

These used hybrid cars will help you take your first step into electrified motoring on a budget
Next-gen Mercedes C-Class set to go electric-only
Electric Mercedes C-Class render
News
23 Sep 2024

Next-gen Mercedes C-Class set to go electric-only

We preview the upcoming Mercedes C-Class, which is due to go fully-electric for 2026
The best saloon cars to buy in 2024
Best saloon cars
Best cars
20 Sep 2024

The best saloon cars to buy in 2024

For a balance of space, comfort and performance, saloon cars are hard to beat. Here are the ones to buy
Best estate cars – the top 10 to buy in 2024
Best estate cars 2024
Best cars
14 Aug 2024

Best estate cars – the top 10 to buy in 2024

Need space but don’t want the bulk of an SUV? Look no further than our top 10 estate cars…
Top 10 best four-door sports cars 2024
Best four door sports cars
Best cars
29 May 2024

Top 10 best four-door sports cars 2024

Want practicality and performance? These four-door sports cars offer the best of both worlds
Top 10 best executive cars 2024
Best executive cars
Best cars
22 Mar 2024

Top 10 best executive cars 2024

Efficient, classy and comfortable, these executive cars do it all with a premium touch
Skip advert
Advertisement
Top 9 most economical cars 2024
Most economical cars
Best cars
13 Mar 2024

Top 9 most economical cars 2024

Choose one of the most economical cars in the UK and save money thanks to their fuel-efficient engines
Top 10 best fast estate cars
Best fast estate cars
Best cars
12 Jan 2024

Top 10 best fast estate cars

Got stuff to move and no time to waste? You’ll want to take a look at these fast estate cars
The safest cars to buy in 2024
2023 safest cars - header
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

The safest cars to buy in 2024

Looking for peace of mind when out on the road? Here are the safest cars according to independent crash-test body Euro NCAP
Top 10 best hybrid family cars 2024
Top 10 best hybrid family cars
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best hybrid family cars 2024

Need a practical car with very low running costs? Read our guide to the best hybrid family cars
Mercedes C-Class hybrid review
Best Plug-in Hybrid: Mercedes C-Class
In-depth reviews
29 Mar 2023

Mercedes C-Class hybrid review

“The Mercedes C 300 e is the strongest version of the C-Class, and perhaps one of the best company cars you can buy today”
Mercedes C-Class Estate review
Mercedes C-Class Estate
In-depth reviews
26 Oct 2022

Mercedes C-Class Estate review

"The Mercedes C-Class Estate is a comfortable and luxurious way to transport passengers and their luggage"
New Mercedes-AMG C 63 S gets F1-derived hybrid tech
2023 Mercedes-AMG C63S - front
News
21 Sep 2022

New Mercedes-AMG C 63 S gets F1-derived hybrid tech

Mercedes’ latest super saloon ditches V8 muscle for a fuel-sipping plug-in hybrid powertrain
Audi A4 vs BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class and Alfa Romeo Giulia: which should you buy?
Audi A4 vs BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes C-Class vs Alfa Romeo Giulia
News
24 Jun 2022

Audi A4 vs BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class and Alfa Romeo Giulia: which should you buy?

Which of these compact executive saloons is best for you? Find out here
New Mercedes-AMG C43 saloon and estate revealed
2022 Mercedes-AMG C 43 driving
News
26 Apr 2022

New Mercedes-AMG C43 saloon and estate revealed

Mercedes’ family of sporty C-Class models get a punchy petrol engine and a handy performance boost
Skip advert
Advertisement
Used Mercedes C-Class saloon review: 2014-2021 (Mk4)
Mercedes C-Class saloon review
Used car reviews
31 Mar 2022

Used Mercedes C-Class saloon review: 2014-2021 (Mk4)

"Exceptionally classy, comfortable, solidly made and well equipped, the fourth generation Mercedes C-Class is excellent value on the used car market"
Top 3 used petrol estate cars for under £15,000
Top 3 used petrol estate
Tips and advice
24 Nov 2021

Top 3 used petrol estate cars for under £15,000

Dear Carbuyer, I need a petrol estate car with a good infotainment system. What can I get for £12,000?
Top 10 best nearly new cars
Renault Captur
Best cars
4 Oct 2021

Top 10 best nearly new cars

If you can’t justify buying a brand-new car but want all the latest features, a nearly new car will appeal. Here are the best
Mercedes C-Class: old vs new
Mercedes C-Class: old vs new
News
10 Sep 2021

Mercedes C-Class: old vs new

A new version of the Mercedes C-Class executive saloon arrived in 2021 but how does it compare to the old model?
Top 10 best self-parking cars
DS 3 Crossback
Best cars
16 Jul 2021

Top 10 best self-parking cars

We name the 10 best cars with self-parking technology, so read on to find out which cars take the stress out of parking
New Mercedes C-Class range breaks cover
2021 Mercedes C-Class driving
News
23 Feb 2021

New Mercedes C-Class range breaks cover

Latest Mercedes C-Class generation officially revealed; plug-in hybrid will manage 62-mile electric range

Tips & advice

View All
Car dashboard warning lights: what does each symbol mean?
Car dashboard symbols and meanings
Tips and advice
21 Oct 2024

Car dashboard warning lights: what does each symbol mean?

Electric car charging stations: public networks, charger types, apps and maps
Charging station
Tips and advice
23 Jul 2024

Electric car charging stations: public networks, charger types, apps and maps

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?
PCP vs HP
Tips and advice
17 May 2022

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?

Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Tips and advice
21 Mar 2024

Average speed cameras: how do they work?

Best cars

View All
Top 10 best car interiors
Peugeot 208 hatchback
Best cars
25 Jun 2021

Top 10 best car interiors

Top 10 best electric cars 2024
Best electric cars
Best cars
16 May 2024

Top 10 best electric cars 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024
The best cheap-to-run cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024
Fastest hot hatchbacks hero
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024