2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review — Is It Really A Baby S-Class Or Is It More Than Just That?

By DriveSpark Bureau
Rating:

There are many success stories in the automotive world and Mercedes-Benz might have just written the highest number of these success stories. Almost all of Mercedes-Benz's cars account for one success story each and the C-Class is a perfect example of the same.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

It was developed as a replacement for the venerable Mercedes-Benz 190 range and this in itself was a big responsibility to shoulder, given how respected the 190 was and still is even to this day. In 1993, the C-Class was launched with much fanfare and a lot of expectations riding on it. Well, safe to say, the C-Class has performed brilliantly over the years and the five generations.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

In 2021, Mercedes-Benz launched the sixth-generation C-Class in several international markets. It was nicknamed 'The Baby S-Class' with reference to the flagship. It was obvious that the new C-Class would eventually make it to the Indian market and now, after a year since its Global debut, it finally has.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

We drove the sedan around the beautiful locales of Mussoorie, otherwise known as the 'Queen Of The Hills,' and this gave us a brilliant opportunity to sample the excellence of the new C-Class. Is it really a baby S-Class? Is this the success story Mercedes-Benz India will ride on, in 2022? Read on to find out.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Design & Style

The progression of the design on the C-Class over the years and generations is inspirational. The designers at Mercedes-Benz didn't make any drastic changes to the design language and there were some connections to the previous generations. With the new sixth-generation model though, there are quite a few drastic changes.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The design inspiration, for example, has not been taken from the outgoing C-Class but from the flagship S-Class. This is bound to be one of the biggest selling points for the C-Class. Who wouldn't love a C-Class that looks like a smaller S-Class?

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The sedan now looks like it is in line with the other sedans in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. It exudes elegance and sophistication from every angle and is very likeable indeed. The most iconic bit certainly is the rear-end.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

It looks gorgeous and has all the curves in the right places. The tail lamps are now more angular and the LEDs placed inside it in a sort of cascading style play a huge role in enhancing the design factor. The boot lid has become more curvaceous as well. The iconic three-pointed star is placed prominently and the variant badging is found on the left side of the boot lid.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The rear bumper is bulky and blends seamlessly with the sedan's body. At the bottom of the bumper are the exhaust outlets with chrome surrounds and both exhaust outlets are connected by a chrome strip as well. The sloping roofline further adds to the dramatic yet sophisticated design of the new C-Class.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The stylish 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels certainly grab one's eyeballs at first when the new C-Class is viewed from the side profile. The top-spec C300d gets sportier AMG-line alloy wheels. The sportiness of the alloy wheels is very well complimented by the design lines on the side profile, or the lack of it.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

With this one, Mercedes-Benz has gone for a minimalistic design language and the only character line that is quite prominent is the shoulder line. The door handles are nice and thick and feature a chrome strip running through the centre. The new C-Class is 65mm longer than the outgoing model and this is made obvious when looked at from the side.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

At the front, there is the signature Mercedes-Benz family design language. The wraparound LED headlamps feature the single LED DRL that signifies this is the smaller C-Class.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Mercedes' signature star-studded grille is present and so is the large three-pointed star on it. The major design lines that lend character to the front end are present on the bonnet. The power lines on the bonnet add a lot of muscle to the design and makes the otherwise sleek front end look a bit bulkier.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

While the rest of the sedan maintains a simple, sleek, and elegant design language, the front bumper gets a bit busy. This is more specific to the front bumper. It features a unique pattern in plastic where one would usually expect to find the fog lamps. At the bottom is a scuff plate finished in silver.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

On the whole, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class carries a rather minimalistic design. However, the designers have managed to create magic even through the minimal bits and that deserves a lot of appreciation.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Cockpit & Interior

Yes, it is as modern as you would expect from a new Mercedes-Benz. It is a geekfest of aluminum buttons, haptic touch panels, large screens, and lights that quite literally set the mood. Tug on the door handles of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class and it does feel like you are entering an entirely different vehicle, because, minimalistic just doesn't make the cut here.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

What do you give your attention to, the tech-laden dashboard or the fancy seats? Well, it certainly is a dilemma, and eventually, do you end up giving your attention to all of the interior, starting first with the dashboard.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The steering wheel looks fantastic and feels even better. It is leather-wrapped and is a bit toward the smaller end in terms of size. It features mounted controls for various vehicular systems and also for the infotainment. Touch pads on the steering wheel now also help drivers switch and scroll between the various options on the infotainment screen and even select them.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Behind the steering wheel is a floating 12.3-inch LCD for instrumentation. The way it is placed is obviously inspired by the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The screen displays a lot of information about various aspects of the car including but not limited to speed, engine speed, drive modes, gear position, instand & average fuel efficiency, the trip meters, etc.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

There's so much technology packed into that display that it would take a few paragraphs to explain each detail. The driver can even customise the layout of the display and it is an uber-cool thing to behold.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

It is hard to miss the larger, centrally positioned infotainment unit. This too is a floating unit and is placed vertically, once again like the S-Class. Mercedes-Benz says it is a 11.9-inch unit, but it definitely feels larger. It might be due to the way it is positioned. It doesn't really go with the flow of the dashboard but seems like a separate unit. It is even tilted slightly towards the driver for ease of use.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

It is loaded with features and uses the second-generation MBUX platform and this includes connected car features and even voice assistance. This infotainment system even features biometric authentication via fingerprint or voice for access to personalised settings and data.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The AC vents on the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class deserve a special mention. These jet-inspired vents finished in brushed aluminum look brilliant and the feel good factor is very much present while adjusting them too.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The minimalistic design is seen on the inside when one looks at the centre console. The gear lever and other controls that would otherwise require knobs and buttons have all been done away with. What remains is a sleek centre console that looks gorgeous. You get dual-zone climate control which cools the cabin rapidly and the same can be controlled via the infotainment screen.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The armrest opens up to reveal some storage space in the centre console. The armrest is decked in leather and so are the seats. Buyers can now choose from three interior colour options Macchiato Beige, Sienna Brown, and Black. Every one of them looks brilliant and only the best materials have been used in creating the interior of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Topping it all off is the ambient lighting. With lots and lots of colours at your fingertips, it is easy to set the mood. If you are unable to find the right colour to match your mood, the C-Class will set find the right colour according to the driving mode selected.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Comfort, Practicality & Boot Space

Comfort and Mercedes-Benz almost go hand-in-hand. Almost all of the brand's cars are among the most comfortable cars in their respective segments and the same goes with the new C-Class as well.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The leather seats make sure you are cocooned in absolute comfort. Thigh support is excellent and so is the bolstering. This comfort offered by the seats is even felt at higher speeds when the seat holds the driver and passengers in place.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

At the rear, the space isn't exactly limousine-like. That being said, we should also mention that it is not exactly cramped in the back. It is a nice place to be in as well. Passengers at the rear get separate AC vents at the back of the centre console. These AC vents have their own climate control panel to regulate the air temperature and flow.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The dual-pane panoramic sunroof makes the cabin feel airy and relaxed and the overall feeling of being inside the cabin is lovely. It's just that, you will find the cabin to be less spacious than expected while in the rear seat.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

You do get cubbyholes where you would expect them to be. This includes the glovebox, centre console, door panels, etc. They aren't particularly big, but they do their job pretty well. When it comes to boot space, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class features a 455-litre boot. This is decent and certainly isn't the largest in its segment.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Engine Performance & Driving Impressions

This section is where Mercedes-Benz cars shine the brightest. Traditionally, Mercedes-Benz cars are known for their engaging driving experience. A powerful engine at the front, coupled with rear-wheel drive, makes for a near-perfect drivers' car. The new C-Class comes with updated powertrain options and we got to sample the new petrol engine.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Right off the bat, let's get the engine options clear. There are two diesel engines and one petrol engine on offer. The base model here is the C200 which is powered by a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and this engine replaces the older 2.0-litre turbo-petrol. In terms of output though, the new engine puts out 3bhp and 20NM more than the bigger outgoing engine.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

It now has an output of 204bhp and 300Nm, which translates to excellent performance. On the other hand, there are the larger, more efficient, and more expensive diesels. The C220d is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit that puts out 200bhp and 440Nm. The same engine is available in a more powerful state of tune in the top-spec model.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

It produces 265bhp and 550Nm in the C300d and this cariant is even available with AMG-line bodywork. All three engine options are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and they also feature a mild-hybrid system with an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) that is capable of adding around 20bhp or up to 200Nm when needed.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

It is quite obvious that Mercedes-Benz India is pushing the C300d as the go-to performance variant. However, with over 200bhp on tap in the other two variants too, they aren't exactly a slouch. We spent a few hours behind the wheel of the C200 turbo-petrol and it is quite entertaining to say the least.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

At idle, the engine is barely heard or felt. Give it a rev or two, and the feel dramatically changes. It does let you know that there's quite a bit of power under the hood. Slot it into drive and the car crawls forward without the slightest hesitation. Prod on the throttle though and speeds build up pretty quick.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Acceleration is linear at first. It doesn;t really push you back into the seat at lower engine speeds. As the engine approaches its mid range, it starts accelerating harder. The mid-range and top-end of this engine is brilliant and the sedan accelerates pretty hard. Before we knew it, we had clocked the ton on the speedometer. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100km/h time of 7.3 seconds for the C200 and C220d.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

The 9G TRONIC transmission is a perfect match for this engine and it shifts through the ratios seamlessly. Only when the driver goes pedal-to-the-metal does the transmission go through each gear. In normal driving scenarios though, it might skip a gear or two, depending on how it is being driven.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Steering feedback is one area where some owners of the outgoing model had some qualms. It just wasn't connected enough. Now though, with the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz has improved the steering no end. It is a bit on the heavier side and is extremely accurate while also returning excellent feedback to the driver. At no point does one feel a disconnection.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

As a result, handling has improved. The suspension setup on the new C-Class too is improved massively. It is a bit on the softer side and this ensures a comfortable ride. Push it hard in the corners though, and you don't feel it is soft. This is because body roll is kept to a minimum and this signifies an excellently tuned suspension setup.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Mercedes-Benz claims a fuel efficiency figure of 16.9km/l for the C200 and while this figure is excellent, we can say that this figure can be achieved only when driven in a sane manner. If you are someone who would like to experience all 204 horses quite often, the fuel efficiency figure is bound to be much lower than that.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

When all is put together, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a wholesome driving experience. The seats keep its occupants in comfort over long distances, the suspension enhances the comfort levels while the engine and powertrain offers exhilarating performance. The C300d should offer much higher levels of performance, but we can't comment on the same until we drive it.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Safety & Key Features

Mercedes-Benz is the pioneer of several safety features that are now commonly found in almost all cars. In fact, it was in 1981 that Mercedes-Benz first introduced airbags on the S-Class. With this in mind, it is safe say that the new C-Class features the very best in terms of safety.

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Safety Features:

- Attention Assist with Active Brake Assist
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- Active Steering Assist
- Active Lane-Keeping Assist
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- ABS with EBD
- Traction Control
- 8 Airbags
- Anti Whiplash

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Key Features:

- 11.9-inch Touchscreen Infotainment
- Second-Generation MBUX Connectivity Suite
- 12.3-inch LCD Instrument Display
- Ambient Lighting
- Leather Seats
- Multiple Colour Options For The Interior
- Dual-Pane Sunroof
- Two-Zone Climate Control

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Variants & Colours

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available in three variants and six colour options.

2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Variants:

- C200
- C220d
- C300d

2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Colour Options:

- Mojave Silver
- Salatine Grey
- High-Tech Silver
- Manufaktur Opalite White
- Cavansite Blue
- Obsidian Black

All-New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: Design, Specs, Performance, Interiors, Features, & Other Details

Verdict

With the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken things to the next level. It boasts the very best in technology and its minimal styling is very attractive. The new C-Class is now more engaging to drive and it really is hard to find fault with the new sedan. The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class might just become the best-selling Mercedes-Benz sedan as it is not just a baby S-Class. It is much more than that.

Writing by Stephen Neil; Review inputs by Jobo Kuruvilla & Promeet Ghosh

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Read more on: #review #mercedes benz
Article Published On: Monday, May 9, 2022, 12:30 [IST]
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