Mercedes C 300 review: Quickest non-AMG C-Class

Out goes the C 300 d and in comes the C 300. In simple English, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class loses the performance-oriented version of the OM654 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, and in its place, there’s the option of a new performance-oriented version of the M254 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. The latter is not to be confused with the AMG C 43’s highly strung M139 engine, mind you. Mercedes says the move from C 300 d to C 300 is in keeping with a broader market move away from diesels. The C 220 d diesel remains in the line-up, as does the C 200, which is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine.

So, what do we have here? Peak power is 258hp while torque is 400Nm, both figures down on the strong-hearted C 300 d’s 265hp and 550Nm. But that’s on paper. On the go, the C 300 petrol is quick to win you over. It feels strong from the get-go and there’s a delightful long-leggedness to the performance. Pressing down on the accelerator reveals an engine with lots to give, highlighted by the sustained pull well upwards of 100kph. The engine revs happily past 6,000rpm, too, and sounds rather nice, while at it. No, there’s no sport exhaust and you don’t get the pops and bangs of a full-blown AMG, but a Sport+ setting for the exhaust does up the decibel levels (it’s still not loud) to make the C 300 sound purposeful. The 9-speed gearbox is well in tune with the proceedings and delivers quick shifts when you expect them. Or better still, you can use the paddle shifters to take matters into your own hands. 

The slick powertrain is complemented by a well-judged ride and handling balance. The suspension setup is clearly biased towards comfort and there is some roll in the corners, but body control, even in high-speed corners, is good. Helping the feeling of connect is the steering. It might be an electric power steering, but it feels well-oiled like an old-school hydraulic unit. Good grip, strong brakes and the rear-wheel-drive layout help work out a delightful rhythm with the car. For most buyers, frankly, the C 300 offers all the performance and thrills they could use.

The other thing? The C 300 doesn’t forget it’s a Mercedes and will also be tasked with ferrying occupants in great comfort. There’s a new-found suppleness to the ride at low speeds, thanks to tweaks to the suspension and even those 18-inch rims don’t compromise comfort. Thankfully, Mercedes has also addressed the older C 300 d’s ground clearance issue. Revisions to the underbody have made belly scrapes on speedbreakers a rarity rather than the norm, and this alone makes the C 300 easier to live with. Since we are comparing the two, of course, the petrol is quieter and smoother at all times – the diesel used to boom when revved. 

Don’t read too much into the ‘AMG Line’ that suffixes the C 300’s name, though. It’s a trim level only, and the AMG-ness is restricted to a sportier look inside and out. The AMG elements like that larger, star-studded grille, larger 18-inch rims, side skirts and sportier bumpers easily establish the C 300 as more potent than the C 200 and C 220 d that come in Avantgarde trim. Inside, there’s a carbon fibre-like finish to the dash and sports steering that do help spice things up in what is, in general, an opulent interior. Material quality and attention to detail are class-leading, which, along with the screens and brilliantly done ambient lighting, give this cabin a fantastic sense of occasion. The digital dials and 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen that are vibrant in colours and crisp in display are highlights in their own right. Connected car tech, a 360-degree camera and  a dual-pane sunroof are also part of the package. 

The driving position is sporty, and what’s nice is the inclusion of front seat ventilation as standard, on the C-Class line-up. Rear seat occupants will be fine on space, but legroom is significantly down on the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine. 

Priced at Rs 69 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the C 300 commands a substantial Rs 7 lakh premium over the C 200 petrol. More pertinently, for anyone shopping for a sporty luxury sedan, the C 300 is also Rs 8 lakh pricier than the 258hp BMW 330Li. That the 330Li is roomier, too, doesn’t help the C 300’s case. 

However, if it’s a C Class you have your eyes on, the C 300 is the one to buy. The engine gives it proper go without trading any of the comfort you’d associate with a car with the three-pointed star. Drive one and you’re sure to become a fan.

Also see:

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