2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Although the C-Class is no longer Mercedes-Benz' smallest sedan, it remains an entry point to luxurious driving behind a three-pointed star badge. The current generation of C-Class arrived for 2022 with more tech, modern style, and a hybridized engine. For 2024, a few new standard features are added, and the powerful yet maligned AMG C63 E Performance joins the lineup. Competitors to the 2024 C-Class include the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, andPolestar 2 .
What's New
- Parking proximity sensors and autonomous parking assist become standard
- Wireless charging pad added on all trim levels
- New blue, red, and matte gray paint colors offered
- Additional options and packages for AMG models
- Trial subscription to SiriusXM radio included
What We Think
For better and for worse, the C-Class feels in many ways like a miniature version of the S-Class large luxury sedan. Overall refinement in the C-Class is high, keeping things serene and stable even at high speeds. The cabin combines attractive design touches with abundant digital real estate, both becoming of the Mercedes-Benz badge. However, although some surfaces feel solidly assembled, others are disappointingly flimsy. At least the back seat is rather spacious.
Like the S-Class, the C-Class takes a comfort-first approach to driving. Some drivers may appreciate that, but other luxury compact sedans provide more fun from behind the wheel without much compromise to smoothness. Again like the S-Class, that changes in the C-Class' AMG versions, yet some enthusiasts decry the added complexity and arguably weakened spirit that vex those cars' turbocharged I-4 hybrid powertrains. While we agree the powertrain is mind-numbingly complex, the C63 S E-Performance is also one of the most thrilling performance cars in its class.
Nevertheless, the C-Class remains a very nice vehicle, and largely delivers a true Mercedes-Benz experience. A little more polish and pizzazz would make it even more compelling.
Performance and MPGs
The C300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 engine with mild hybrid assistance. Total output measures 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, which is routed through a nine-speed automatic transmission to standard RWD or optional AWD, which Mercedes calls 4Matic. In MotorTrend testing, a C300 4Matic accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. Fuel economy rates at 26/36 mpg city/highway with RWD, and 23/33 mpg with AWD.
Mercedes EQC In the Works?
First came the EQS, then the EQE—each, respectively, essentially an all-electric interpretation of the S-Class and E-Class. Mercedes is hard at work expanding its EV offerings; there's even now an all-electric Sprinter van. Numerous Mercedes EV concepts have been shown, including a high-performance AMG, the boxy G-Class, an ultra-efficient sedan, and a small four-door fastback. What's not yet been seen is a direct equivalent to an all-electric C-Class, but we wouldn't be surprised if it arrived in the next few years potentially wearing an EQC badge—different from the EQC crossover Mercedes used to make.
AMG C-Class: Enough Engine?
As it has for many years, AMG applies its high-performance touch to the 2024 C-Class. In the C43, a 2.0-liter I-4 uses turbocharging technology inspired by F1 racing, as well as a mild hybrid system. Total output measures 402 hp and 369 lb-ft, which goes through a nine-speed automatic transmission before being distributed to standard AWD. In our testing, the AMG C43 launched from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
For 2024, the legendary C63 returns mired in controversy. Once powered by a muscular V-8 engine, the 2024 C63 E Performance now uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 augmented by electric motors. This significant change indicates AMG's inclination toward electrification, yet has drawn ire from some Mercedes fans. That's despite the 2024 C63 being more powerful than ever, with a total of 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque. Quicker, too, launching to 60 mph in an estimated 3.3 seconds.
Despite the impressive performance of the 2024 AMG C-Class models, a contingent of enthusiasts still yearn for the high-displacement, electrification-free engines of yesteryear.
Safety Ratings and Features
In IIHS testing, the 2024 C-Class earned 2023 Top Safety Pick+ status, the highest possible designation.
Standard driver assist and active safety features on the C-Class include front automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high-beams, and front and rear parking sensors. Adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, intersection collision mitigation, emergency evasive steering, and other desirable features are part of the extra-cost Driver Assistance package.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Spaciousness is a strong suit of the C-Class. Its second row and trunk are more roomy than most segment competitors.
Technology
Two large screens contribute to a modern look inside the 2024 C-Class. Ahead of the driver is a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Next to it, an 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen handles most vehicle functions, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A fingerprint scanner allows different drivers to load their unique profiles with just a touch. Wi-Fi hotspot functionality is included, but built-in navigation is extra cost. A wireless charging pad and two USB-C ports are standard in the front row; an additional two front ports and two second-row ports are optionally available. Premium tech options include a Burmester audio system and head-up display.
Recommended Trim
Our pick in the 2024 C-Class lineup is the mid-range Exclusive trim. At about $48,000 to start it's more expensive than the base Premium trim, yet less than the range-topping (aside from AMG) Pinnacle trim. Over the Premium trim, the 2024 C-Class Exclusive gets upgrades such as a Burmester audio system, a 360-degree camera, and snazzy interior ambient lighting. Additionally, the Premium trim cannot be ordered with the Driver Assistance package, meaning Exclusive offers adaptive cruise control and other useful features (which should be, in our opinion, standard on all versions of the C-Class to begin with). The C-Class Pinnacle gets doodads like a head-up display and built-in navigation, which don't seem so necessary. However, if the C300 in any trim isn't fun enough, AMG is the way to go.
