2027 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz C-Class expands into two distinct directions: a redesigned electric C400 4Matic on a dedicated EV platform and a gas-powered C350 that keeps the familiar rear-drive architecture. Both get major technology updates, giving buyers a choice between the electric model’s added space and performance and the C350’s traditional powertrain.

Competitors include the BMW 3 Series, Tesla Model 3, and Audi A5.

What’s New

The C-Class gets its most comprehensive technology update yet for 2027, with a new all-electric model joining the gas-powered lineup. The C400 4Matic rides on Mercedes-Benz’s dedicated MB.EA platform, while the C350 and C350 4Matic retain a rear-wheel-drive-based platform and adopt styling cues shared with the EV. The gas models are expected to reach U.S. dealerships in the first half of 2027.

Basics

• The all-electric C400 4Matic joins the lineup, with dual-motor all-wheel drive and a two-speed transmission on the rear axle
• The gas-powered C350 returns with a 2.0-liter turbo-four and 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance. It’s offered with rear-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive
• Gas models add an electric turbocharger to reduce lag, plus an overboost function that supplies an extra 27 hp for about 20 seconds
• C350 trims include base, AMG Line, and the new AMG Line Plus. The Plus adds a rear spoiler lip, gloss-black tailpipe trim, sport seats with red stitching, and red seat belts

Exterior

• The C-Class gets a new front fascia and star-pattern grille, along with star-motif headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights
• The Mercedes star in the grille is illuminated
• New wheel designs are available in sizes from 17 to 19 inches
• The gas model’s styling now more closely echoes the electric C-Class

Interior

• Gas models pair a 12.3-inch digital instrument display with an 11.9-inch center touchscreen; the C400 offers larger, dash-spanning Superscreen or Hyperscreen displays
• The full lineup adopts Mercedes-Benz’s MB.OS operating system, with over-the-air update capability and a fourth-generation MBUX Virtual Assistant that draws on ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini
• Gas models add new interior materials, including bright birch wood and leather seats with moccasin stitching
• The steering wheel brings back physical rockers and rollers for audio and cruise-control functions
• An enhanced Burmester 3D surround-sound system and 64-color ambient lighting are available. An augmented-reality head-up display is optional

What We Think

The 2027 C-Class gives buyers two distinct ways into Mercedes’ compact luxury sedan: the all-electric C400 4Matic and the gas-powered C350. The EV brings the dedicated electric platform, extra cabin space, and brisk performance; the C350 keeps a familiar powertrain layout while gaining a mild-hybrid system and the same major software upgrades.

Our first drive of a European gas model suggests the C350 should deliver the smooth, quiet, comfortable character buyers expect. Acceleration felt adequate, and the suspension struck a sensible balance, but the drive was brief and in a model similar to—not identical to—the U.S.-spec C350. We’ll reserve judgment on its handling and refinement until we drive the North American version. For now, the C-Class’s appeal depends on which side of its new lineup suits you: conventional gas power or a more spacious, fully electric alternative.

Top-Ranked Competitors:

• Tesla Model 3​
• BMW 3 Series​
• Audi A5​

Performance

The 2027 C-Class offers gas and electric power. The gas-powered C350 uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine makes 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque; its integrated starter-generator can add up to 23 hp and 151 lb-ft. An electric turbocharger is designed to reduce turbo lag, while an overboost function adds 27 hp for about 20 seconds. A nine-speed automatic sends power to the rear wheels or, in the C350 4Matic, all four.

In our drive of a similar European-spec mild-hybrid model, power came on smoothly and felt adequate for passing and merging. The C-Class stayed quiet at idle, and its steel-spring suspension delivered a comfortable, composed ride. Unfortunately, North American gas models won’t offer rear-axle steering, which is available on European gas models and the electric C-Class.

The electric C400 4Matic uses front and rear motors for all-wheel drive, with a two-speed transmission on the rear axle. Mercedes estimates 483 hp and a 3.9-second 0-60-mph time. The C400’s optional Agility and Comfort package adds air suspension and rear-axle steering; we found the EV quick, composed, and more agile than its weight suggests on our earlier drive.

Range and Charging

The new C400 Electric utilizes a 94-kWh usable capacity lithium-ion battery that delivers up to 762 kilometers of range on the WLTP cycle, though U.S. EPA estimates are expected to land closer to the 400-mile mark. Charging is rapid thanks to an 800-volt architecture that supports peak speeds of 330 kW, allowing the sedan to recoup approximately 202 miles of range in just 10 minutes at a compatible DC fast charger.

Efficiency is further maximized by a one-box braking system capable of 300 kW of recuperation power (and it’s capable of a full stop, to boot) and a standard multi-source heat pump that recycles waste energy from the powertrain. This thermal management system warms the cabin twice as fast as a traditional internal combustion vehicle while using significantly less energy, helping to preserve range in colder climates.

Safety Features

Like last year’s C-Class lineup, standard driver assists should include:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Parking sensors
• Automatic high-beams

Cargo Space and Interior Room

The transition to a dedicated electric platform has allowed for improved packaging, starting with a 116.6-inch wheelbase that is 3.8 inches longer than that of the gasoline-powered C-Class. This stretch results in increased headroom throughout the cabin and a half-inch gain in front legroom, bringing the total to a more accommodating 42.2 inches.

Utility is equally enhanced, as the trunk capacity swells from a cramped 11.6 cubic feet in the previous model to a generous 16.6 cubic feet. This primary storage area is further supplemented by a standard "frunk" under the hood, providing a level of cargo flexibility previously unavailable in the C-Class lineup.

Technology

The available dash-spanning MBUX Hyperscreen serves as the centerpiece of the interior, measuring a massive 39.1 inches and utilizing advanced matrix backlight technology with independent brightness controls for the passenger side. The cabin’s sensory experience is further elevated by optional high-end seats featuring massage functions and 4D sound transducers, as well as an available panoramic roof with dimmable glass and 162 integrated stars that synchronize with the ambient lighting.

Tech-forward exterior details include an available "iconic" grille with 1,050 illuminated points and specialized light animations, while the optional Agility and Comfort package adds sophisticated air suspension and rear-axle steering for enhanced maneuverability. Despite these premium additions, everyday convenience remains a priority, as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected to be standard across the lineup.

Value

Standard Features

The C400 Electric offers a strong baseline of equipment that positions it well within the luxury EV market even before options are added. Standard highlights like the hands-free powered trunk, flush door handles, and signature star-motif LED lighting provide the premium aesthetic expected of a modern Mercedes-Benz.

While the headline-grabbing Hyperscreen remains an optional upgrade, the model still benefits from the significant functional improvements of the new MB.EA platform, including a larger trunk and the addition of a standard frunk. Coupled with its robust 800-volt charging architecture and competitive 400-mile range, the entry-level C 400 delivers a high-tech, high-utility experience that focuses on the core electric performance.