The Mercedes-Benz C-class was radically revamped in 2022, shaking up the entry-luxury automobile category. The C-class has long been the entry-level model in the Mercedes-Benz range, but recent additions to the brand, such as the A-class sedan, have allowed the C-class to move upmarket and compete more effectively. The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class raises the bar significantly for 2022. The sedan hasn't been significantly revamped since the 2015 model, so it was about time. A new appearance, upgraded interior technology, and a more powerful four-cylinder engine should help this already-comfortable sedan compete with newer rivals such as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Genesis G70, and Volvo S60. Even if the look of the new C-class isn't a major divergence from the 2021 version, 2022 marks the beginning of a radically new generation, with more luxury and a greater variety of high-tech amenities.
It has the feel of an S-Class. That's notably noticeable inside the cabin, which has the same luxury feel as its bigger sister, as well as the same clean and functional second-generation MBUX interface. Although it lacks some of the fancy tech features of the S-Class, the inside of the C-Class is good for its category and more opulent than the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. The C-Class sedan provides a peaceful, pleasant ride. Even at high speeds, the C-Class maintains a sense of tranquility and control. The crisp steering is another example of elegance.
The C300 sedan, which would be unveiled, is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with mild-hybrid technology. Output is 255 horsepower (295 lb-ft of torque), with electronic boost providing an extra 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. Power is delivered to the rear wheels or all four wheels via the automaker's 4Matic technology via a nine-speed automatic transmission. Regardless of the powertrain arrangement, Mercedes claims the C300 car will reach 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and peak out at 130 mph.
On the 2022 C-Class, Mercedes provides a fantastic selection of safety measures. The sedan comes standard with automated emergency braking, parking damage detection, blind-spot assist, and attention assist. However, expect to spend extra on the most expensive features. A driver aid package includes a sophisticated adaptive cruise control system with route-based speed adaption and stop-and-go traffic assist. It also has active steering help, lane change aid, Active Blind Spot Assist, braking assist with cross-traffic function, lane-keeping assist, and a feature that transfers the front seat occupant away from the impact zone before a collision.
Sedan variants have a seating capacity of five persons. The front row offers 41.7 inches of legroom, which is the same as the outgoing C-Class sedan, but the rear legroom has improved marginally from 35.2 inches to 36.0 inches. These revised dimensions place the C-Class on the same level as the 2021 Audi A4, which has 41.3 inches of front-row legroom and 35.7 inches of back legroom.
The C-Class vehicle, like Tesla, has a big portrait-oriented central touchscreen. This basic screen is 11.9 inches and is canted toward the driver for ease of usage. A new 12.3-inch completely digital instrument cluster is also included. The C-Class employs the most recent version MBUX infotainment system, which the driver may activate through a fingerprint reader beneath the central display. A head-up display is an option, as is Augmented Video for Navigation, a function that superimposes arrows, house numbers, and lane change recommendations onto the navigation screen, making it easier for drivers to navigate around town.
Other standard amenities on the C-Class sedan include keyless entry, push-button start, a sunroof, heated front seats with memory and lumbar support, and a leather steering wheel with touch control buttons to manage the infotainment system. Ventilated front seats, inductive wireless charging, and a heated steering wheel are optional comfort options.
Mercedes attempts to simplify the selection of a C-Class by categorizing it into three separate trim levels. It all starts with the Premium option, which includes 18-inch wheels on the outside and large infotainment and gauge cluster screens on the interior. Basic driver-assist functions are included as standard. The Exclusive trim adds technology and luxuries. Some of its features include a 360-degree parking camera system, enhanced interior ambient lighting, and a premium audio system.
The Pinnacle trim is the top of the line, featuring a head-up display and built-in navigation with augmented reality. Every model level has options ranging from adaptive lighting to a heated steering wheel to a panoramic sunroof. As usual, the AMG Line option is available to enhance the athletic design of the C-Class.