With an impressive selection of powertrains, best-in-class handling, and fabulous style, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has established itself as a leader in the luxury small car segment. It also has an elegant and exceptionally well-equipped cabin to provide optimal comfort and pleasure for its occupants.
The 2018 C-Class comes in five different trim levels: C 300, C 350e, AMG® C 43, AMG® C 63, and AMG® C 63 S. Additionally, it is available in three body styles: coupe, sedan, and convertible. This small luxury car bears a striking resemblance to larger Mercedes-Benz sedans, but it distinguishes itself with a shorter body and trunk. Overall, it looks fluid, athletic, and elegant with its streamlined nose, slightly-flared fenders, and a softly-curved tail. The AMG® models feature a sportier and more aggressive styling with larger air intakes, petite spoilers, matte-silver trim, and optional gloss-black trim.
The C-Class C 300 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that serves up 241 horsepower and pairs with a new nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine is also found under the hood of the C 350e plug-in hybrid, where it teams with a 60-watt electric motor and a seven-speed transmission for a combined output of 275 horsepower. The C-Class C 300 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that serves up 241 horsepower and pairs with a new nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine is also found under the hood of the C 350e plug-in hybrid, where it teams with a 60-watt electric motor and a seven-speed transmission for a combined output of 275 horsepower. The AMG® models offer significantly more power. The C 43 uses a 3.0-liter V6 that delivers 362 horsepower, catapulting the C-Class from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. For an even more thrilling driving experience, opt for the C 63. This model features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that sends 469 horsepower to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The quickest model in the lineup is the AMG® C 63 S, which is fitted with the same V8 as the AMG® C 63, but produces 503 horsepower instead. It can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in an incredible 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph.
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a stable and relaxed ride. The car comes with an electric variable-ratio steering that has a quick ratio and delivers precise feel and excellent feedback. Its independent steel-coil suspension can be upgraded to an air-spring suspension that features continuously-damping shocks with selectable settings. Through its Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, the air suspension provides a smooth ride with minimal body lean. The AMG® models offer more aggressive, yet polished, handling, as well as better steering.
The sedan version of the C-Class can accommodate five people, while the convertible and coupe seat four. The cabin is comfortable and refined with high-grade synthetic leather and natural grain ash as standard features. The highest trim levels come standard with leather seats. All models are fitted with a 7-inch infotainment system. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 13-speaker audio system are some of the optional features available.
The 2018 C-Class has more safety features than its predecessors, with the standard list consisting of forward collision alert, rain-sensing windshield wipers, crosswind assistance, driver-drowsiness monitoring, Mercedes PRESAFE®, and a rearview camera. Available features include pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, enhanced brake assistance, blind-spot monitors, adaptive headlights, lane-keeping assistance, cross-traffic warning, active parking assistance, and a surround-view camera.
