• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Photos & Videos

Mercedes-Benz C Class - What the Auto Press Says

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class doesn't excel in any one category, but the sum of all the parts is a well-balanced entry-level luxury car.  Critics say it falls a bit short of the performance standard set by the benchmark of its class, the BMW 3-Series.  But the C offers outstanding safety scores and head-turning style.

The C-Class was redesigned for 2008, and little has changed for 2009.  The car's optional infotainment center has been upgraded for 2009, now featuring 40 gigabytes of memory. The side airbags on every C-Class have been replaced with dual-chamber units designed to better protect the pelvis in an accident.  

The C-Class trails some rivals in performance. The Infiniti G37 and BMW 3-Series still out-corner Mercedes' smallest model.  Even the Lexus IS, according to some reviewers, is a more exciting driver's car.   For 2009, Mercedes has answered those critics by introducing a new high-performance trim, the C63 AMG. It offers a more powerful engine than its rivals, though it boasts a much higher price tag than other C-Class cars.  It is reviewed separately.

Still, for those who consider a Mercedes the ultimate symbol of success, the C-Class is the point-of-entry.

The C-Class is available as the 300 or 350 sedan, with a "luxury" and "sport" version offered at each level. A new C63 AMG, powered by an asphalt-eating 451-horsepower 6.2-liter AMG V8, is also available.

• "In a recent comparison test of $38,000 sports sedans, a C300 Sport took on the BMW 328i, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti G35. The Mercedes finished last, but that result isn't quite as bad as it looks given the stellar competition. The C300 impressed us with its solidity, subdued mechanicals, supple ride, and easy-to-use navigation and radio controls. The last-place finish is largely due to the car's smaller size, unimpressive interior materials, and bias toward luxury." -- Car and Driver
• "If you desire a reasonably-priced premium luxury car guaranteed to impress the neighbors, but still require a functioning sedan for clients and family, the C-Class has you covered. If bang for the buck is more important than the Mercedes-Benz name, makes from Audi, Infiniti and Acura provide more features for about the same or less money." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has many key attributes that make it a competitive, entry-level luxury performance sedan -- the C63 AMG in particular offers power and torque unmatched by its competitors. However, in certain aspects, the C-Class misses the mark." -- Edmunds
• "Within the confines of its compact dimensions, the new C-Class acquits itself quite well. C63 excepted, others in this segment trump all C-Class models for all-out performance, but buyers seeking brand cachet and a refined driving experience would do well to check out this newest version of Mercedes' entry-level sedan." - Consumer Guide
• "But did Benz go far enough? We're not sure, especially with BMW's 335i, the top-tier Audi A4 and Lexus's coming IS-F all poised to ambush the new car." -- Motor Trend
• "While the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is still not in the same performance league as the BMW 3 Series, the Sport models close the gap a bit, while the Luxury version softens the car up for the benefit of motorists who prefer a comfort-oriented driving experience." -- Forbes
• "If you're interested in a C because you are looking for a low-cost Mercedes, you won't be disappointed -- the C offers the stately manner and solid feel for which Mercedes is famous." -- About.com

C-Class Performance - 8.7 (Very Good)

Opinions are split on the handling prowress of the The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.  Some say its sport-tuned suspension out-corners many of its rivals.  Others say it falls a bit short, biased toward a soft luxury ride. Its standard V6 is not as powerful as those some rivals offer, but reviewers say it more than meets the needs of most drivers. Read More

C-Class Exterior - 9.2 (Excellent)

The Washington Post calls the C-Class "stunningly beautiful." Most other testers agree; Mercedes has made no exterior changes for 2009, in part, because the 2008 model impressed so many reviewers.  Its sharp creases and large, upright grille make it one of the most distinctive-looking cars in its class. Read More

C-Class Interior - 7.7 (Good)

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class competes in a crowded class of entry-level luxury sedans, and auto writers are divided on whether its interior is up to the task. Edmunds calls it "austere," but Mother Proof says the interior made "me feel like a rock star -- specifically a safe, comfortable rock star."   The car's cabin electronics are excellent, but some say the interior includes a few hard plastics unexpected at this price point.  It's also small -- its rear seat is tighter than those of some economy cars. Read More

C-Class Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class earns four out of five stars in government frontal-impact crash testing, though many of its rivals claim five out of five. With its new dual-chamber side airbags, it earns five of five for side-impacts.  The C-Class is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety "Top Safety Pick" for its excellent crash test scores and standard stability control. Read More

C-Class Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C Class reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The C-Class is covered by a four-year/50,000-mile warranty. Many reviews note that, as a brand, Mercedes-Benz has had significant reliability issues in the past few years, but our most recent data says the brand has seen success in addressing those concerns. Read More