2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes has introduced a completely redesigned and restyled C-Class sedan for 2015. This fourth-generation C-Class has grown in every dimension and, appearance-wise, strongly resembles Mercedes’ flagship S-Class.

 

The new C-Class represents a genuine break from the past on several fronts: style, technology, safety, cabin design, interior room, and driving dynamics.

 

Consistent with the S-Class, Mercedes has loaded the new car with an elaborate array of advanced technology including an innovative smartphone-like touch pad for the optional COMAND^® Online infotainment and navigation systems. It has pinch-to-zoom commands and spells out destination entries.  

 

The new interior design is nothing short of gorgeous, draped in luxury with high-end upholstery and impeccable build quality. Also, the C-Class is available in four-door sedan variants: the C300 4MATIC with a 241-horsepower, 4-cylinder turbo-charged engine; and the C400 4MATIC (at press time, this was available in the 2015 model; the new 2016 model has been changed to the C450 AMG) with a 329-horsepower, twin-turbo V-6. Both come with a 7-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, though the C300 is available with rear-wheel drive. A diesel and a coupe offering will follow within the year.

 

There’s also the high-performance AMG C63 sedan with either 469 horsepower or 503 horsepower that delivers top performance for acceleration and handling. 

 

Behind the wheel, I found the new C-Class’ ride and handling to be excellent. Engine performance in all models is nothing short of impressive and fuel economy is respectable. 

 

The C-Class received a "good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and a 4–Star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features include nine standard airbags, Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Pre Safe — automatically applies brakes, Attention Assist to warn driver when getting drowsy, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. 
 

Overall, the new C-Class is truly spectacular. Forgive me for feeling like Mercedes has simply shrunk the S-Class — but that isn’t a bad thing.