If you’re shopping at a Mercedes-Benz dealer, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of the options you have to choose from. If you’re new to the brand, you need to learn what different models and trim levels bring to the table, and if you’re a long-time fan, you need to keep up with the latest round of changes. No matter who you are, it can’t hurt to take a closer look at the details of the current lineup.
Today, we’re going to look at the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which is distinguished from other Mercedes-Benz sedan models by its compact size. This makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces than larger options like the E-Class and S-Class. While it has been offered as both a sedan and a coupe in the past, the C-Class coupe was discontinued for the 2024 model year. If you’re looking for a two-door Mercedes-Benz, you’ll want to check out the new CLE instead. But if you like the sedan bodystyle, then you’ll have no shortage of options to choose from. Let’s dive in and see what the latest C-Class lineup has to offer.
Mercedes-Benz C 300
The C 300 is one of the more attainable Mercedes-Benz models. While it’s still pricey compared to a non-luxury vehicle, it’s within reach for drivers who may not be able to afford a larger Mercedes-Benz model. And its smaller size doesn’t just make it more accessible—it also allows for sportier driving dynamics. But make no mistake, because the C 300 puts comfort and luxury first and foremost. You’ll need to upgrade to one of the Mercedes-AMG models to get a car that prioritizes pure performance, and that’ll cost a pretty penny compared to the C 300. Still, with a 255 hp engine and a mild hybrid system that adds low-end torque, the C 300 isn’t the slowest car out there either and can certainly be fun to drive if you’re not an enthusiast looking for peak performance.
Premium
The most basic trim of the C 300 is called the Premium, which should clue you into the fact that even this entry-level version has plenty of standard luxury features. Indeed, the cabin is loaded with perks like heated front seats, a tinted glass sunroof, and 64-color ambient lighting. The infotainment setup features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster behind the wheel and an 11.9-inch central touchscreen. Both iPhones and Androids can connect to the system wirelessly (they can be charged wirelessly, too). If you don’t want to use the touchscreen while driving, just say “Hey, Mercedes” to activate the voice control system.
Exclusive
The higher trim levels of the C 300 mostly add on additional tech features. The Exclusive trim gets a built-in navigation system along with a year of complimentary online navigation map updates and live traffic information, which is an appealing perk for many, though perhaps a redundant one for those who prefer to connect their mobile navigation app through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The Surround View System, on the other hand, has no equivalent on the lower trim, and its top-down view of the area around your car can be convenient when parking in tight spaces—after all, no one wants to get a scratch or ding on their luxury car. The camera system is also used in the GUARD 360º security system, which can send you mobile updates and time-stamped images if it senses damage to your car while it’s parked.
Most of the other upgrades are related to the sound system, which makes this trim a good choice for audiophiles. Built-in online music streaming gives you plenty of songs to choose from, while the Burmester 3D surround sound system uses 15 speakers to create an immersive listening experience. If you like to tweak the settings to suit your own personal tastes, you can use the Sound Personalization feature to get everything just right and even get specific with how sound is distributed from seat to seat.
Pinnacle
The top-tier trim adds on everything found in the Exclusive trim, plus three additional features. The head-up display is probably the most common of these features—it projects information like your speed and navigation directions onto the lower windshield so you can see them while keeping your eyes on the road. The LED DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps feel a little more sci-fi, projecting warnings onto the road ahead of you via icons. The headlights can also move with your steering wheel to illuminate curves and provide ultra-wide high beams for unlit rural roads. Finally, there’s heat and noise-insulating acoustic glass in the windshield and front side windows, helping to keep the cabin of the C-Class a little more isolated from outside distractions.
Other Options
Beyond the trim levels, there are plenty of other ways to add features to the 2024 C 300. Individual optional features include ventilated front seats, a large panorama sunroof, and a heated steering wheel. While the C 300 comes standard with rear-wheel drive, the 4MATIC® model has all-wheel drive for increased traction. There are also several packages that add bundles of features. The AMG Line with Night Package mostly adds sporty styling touches but also has a few more substantial upgrades, like more performance-oriented braking, steering, and suspension. The Driver Assistance Package has a laundry list of additional and upgraded safety features, while the Winter Package keeps things simple with a heated steering wheel and heated windshield washers.
Mercedes-AMG C 43
Mercedes-AMG models are known for delivering extra performance, and the C 43 is no exception. You’ll still find plenty of luxury features and a modern multimedia system standard on the base Premium trim, but the performance specs are the main attraction. While the C 43 also has a four-cylinder engine, it delivers V8-worthy output, with 402 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough power to get it from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. There are also tech features designed to let you customize performance, from AMG RIDE CONTROL to AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. The exhaust, suspension, and braking systems are specialized for performance, and Dynamic Cornering Assist is designed to help you handle curves at high speeds. 4MATIC® all-wheel drive comes standard across all trims.
The C 43 has no Exclusive trim, but the Pinnacle trim adds basically the same features that you’ll find on the C 300 Pinnacle. The Driver Assistance Package is also similar to the one on the C 300. But beyond that, there are plenty of unique add-ons for this model. The AMG Performance Seat Package Advanced provides seats that have a more athletic look with black MB-Tex and red contrast stitching and are functionally more supportive, with integrated head restraints and enhanced side bolsters. The “Advanced” part of this package means the lumbar supports, side bolsters, and shoulder supports are adjustable. The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package adds dynamic engine mounts, which optimize engine performance, and red-painted brake calipers that add to the car’s athletic aesthetic.
Mercedes-AMG C 63
At the very top of the pack, we have the Mercedes-AMG C 63. Unlike previous iterations powered by V8 engines, the 2024 model has a four-cylinder, though it’s a powerful one that can produce 469 hp on its own. And since the new C 63 is a plug-in hybrid, the engine doesn’t have to work on its own. The powertrain overall can produce 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds.
At this point, most of the packages available on the C 63 will sound familiar. There’s a Pinnacle trim, a Driver Assistance Package, and both regular and “Advanced” versions of the AMG Performance Seat Package. Beyond those, the C 63 also has a special AMG Performance Design Package, which adds red brake calipers, small design changes to improve aerodynamics, an AMG Track Pace feature that lets you record various data while driving laps at a track, and a higher electronically-limited top speed of 174 mph.
A C-Class for Everyone
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has several great options, letting you find exactly what you are looking for. Whether you are on the hunt for a luxury sedan like the C 300 or a high-performance track-ready car like the C 63, you can find your ideal vehicle. Plus, there are plenty of packages and options to further customize your car and enjoy the full Mercedes-Benz experience precisely the way you want it.
