2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Expert Review
Reviewed by Willis Kuelthau
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class returns following the debut of a new generation last year. It isn't a standout performer, but the upscale interior helps keep the C-Class relevant. For 2023, the racy AMG C43 sedan joins the family. The C-Class competes with other luxury compacts including the BMW 3 Series, Genesis G70, and Audi A4.
What We Think
When we said the C-Class reminded us of the flagship S-Class, we paid it a high compliment. Last year's redesign brought the C-Class up to par with its (excellent) competition.
The interior is a highlight. Attention to detail is immaculate, and the materials feel universally premium. The display is large and sharp, and the software is easy to use. Controls are generally good, although we're not crazy about the capacitive volume slider. The exterior matches the cabin's elegance with clean lines, a simple grille, and a pleasing shape.
But is the C-Class sporty? Although the C300 sedan drives sportier than we expected, it's certainly not a sports car. The C-Class isn't as quick as an Audi A4 or a Tesla Model 3, and it's not as entertaining to drive as a Genesis G70 or Alfa Romeo Giulia. It's well-behaved and competent, but numb steering and brakes sap some of the joy.
With the addition of the AMG C43 sedan, this generation of C-Class declares its sporting aspirations. In our First Drive review, we praised the new C43's agility, grip, and braking, but noted "the engine doesn't deliver the thrill you'd expect from an AMG." This reinforces our opinion that the C-Class is best suited to drivers who prioritize luxury over sport. As a miniature S-Class, though, it's a compelling option even in a highly competitive segment.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbo four with a mild hybrid assist. A nine-speed automatic transmission pairs with either rear- or all-wheel drive. The powertrain's 255 hp and 295 lb-ft is enough to propel a C300 4Matic from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. Fuel economy starts at 25/36 mpg city/highway with rear-wheel drive and the sedan body. Adding all-wheel drive reduces the sedan's efficiency to 24/33 mpg.
Inside the new AMG C43 sedan is a 2.0-liter inline-four with an electrically assisted turbo derived from Mercedes's F1 program. Total output checks in at 402 hp and 369 lb-ft, and we recorded a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. This is not to be confused with the two-door AMG C43, which makes 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque via a 3.0-liter V-6.
AMG Performance
The AMG C43 sedan is back. It's down two cylinders compared to the last model, but it's even more powerful. A mild hybrid assist boosts power low in the rev range, and the F1-derived turbo responds quickly to throttle inputs. The standard all-wheel-drive system is rear-biased to improve driving dynamics, and the display systems include AMG-specific performance metrics.
The C43 will also come with rear axle steering, AMG sport seats, and exclusive styling options. An upcoming AMG C63 version should be even faster (and more expensive).
Safety Ratings and Features
The C-Class comes with a competitive set of active safety features. Standard tech includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, driver attention monitors, and automatic high-beams. Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, a parking assist, and a 360-degree camera system require spending extra.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The C-Class seats five passengers in more comfort than most compact sedans. Cargo capacity is competitive for the class, although it's well below what you'll find in a BMW 3 Series.
Cargo space (behind second row):
- 2023 C-Class: 12.6 cubic feet
- 2023 3 Series: 17 cubic feet
Legroom (first/second rows):
- 2023 C-Class: 41.7/36.0 inches
- 2023 3 Series: 42.0/35.2 inches
Technology
The interior of the 2023 C-Class is dominated by two screens. Infotainment is handled by a portrait-oriented 11.9-inch touchscreen running the latest MBUX software. The system comes with smartphone compatibility, Wi-Fi capability, a fingerprint scanner, and voice activation. The driver gets a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Navigation, Burmester sound, a head-up display, and wireless charging are all optional.
Recommended Trim
The C300 sedan has three trim levels: Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle. Prices for this model start at about $44,600.
With heated front seats and most of the best tech features, the base Premium trim should be luxurious enough to suit most buyers. The Exclusive trim adds premium sound, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera system, and active parking assist, while Pinnacle models get a head-up display and a nifty video-assisted navigation view.
Enthusiasts will gravitate to the AMG C43. They'll likely be well rewarded, as long as they're prepared for a starting price north of $60,000. An even sportier C63 model is expected to join the lineup soon.
