2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is offered in one wholesome trim which is available in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. There is only a marginal bump between the two as the rear-wheel-drive is $41,400 and the 4MATIC is $43,400.

Both the cars are powered by a potent 2.0L turbocharged inline four-pot which provides the juice needed without any hiccups. The C-Class has a very healthy set of standard features available which adds more value to it. But Merc has provided with more optional packages than standard to spoil you with choices.

Trims	C 300
MSRP(RWD)	$41,400
MSRP (AWD)	$43,400
Engine	2.0L Turbo I4
Features	ECO Start/Stop System
	Dynamic driving mode selection
	AMG body Styling
	Active Brake Assist
	Attention Assist
	10.25-inch Hi-Res Infotainment Display
	Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call
	Power front seats with driver's seat memory
	Steering Wheel with Touch Control Buttons
	Paddle Shifters

Apart from the standard features, Mercedes-Benz offers the C-Class with seven optional packages that focus on aesthetics, creature comfort and assistance features. These packages add more character and exclusivity to the car and lets you make your car unique, right from the factory.

Package Name	AMG Line	AMG Line w/ Night	Exterior Lighting	Premium	Multimedia	Parking Assistance	Driver Assistance
MSRP	$2000	$2400	$900	$1500	$1250	$1150	$1700
Features	AMG body styling	All the features in the AMG line added and:	LED Intelligent light system	64-color LED ambient lighting	COMAND navigation	Active Parking Assist	Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
	18-inch AMG alloy wheels	Gloss black exterior accents	Adaptive high-beam assist	Illuminated front door sills	Touchpad controller	Surround View System	Active Steering Assist
	Chrome diamond-block grille			Burmester Surround Sound System	No-charge online navigation map updates for three years	Rear Cross-Traffic Alert	Evasive Steering Assist
	Sport suspension and steering			SiriusXM with 6-months All Access trial	Car-to-X communications		Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function
	Sport brake system				Enhanced voice control		Congestion Emergency Braking
	AMG line interior with sport front seats				3 years of Live Traffic service provided by TomTom		Active Emergency Stop Assist
	Sport Steering wheel						Active Speed Limit Assist
	Brushed aluminum pedals						Active Lane Keeping Assist
							Active Blind Spot Assist
							Active Lane Change Assist
							PRE-SAFE PLUS
							Route based Speed Adaptation
							Extended Restart in Stop-and-Go Traffic

Which Luxury trim should you go for?

We recommend you to go for the all-wheel-drive variant for added traction and better driving dynamics. Now, the packages are all very tempting but we can’t have everything, can we? So, we recommend you to opt for the Driver Assistance and Premium package for all the active safety features and the quirky infotainment system. All of this for $46,600 and it won’t burn a hole in your wallet.

C-Class sedan is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four motor which pumps out 255 hp and 273-pound-feet of torque. The power has substantially been bumped up from last year and it helps in increased top speed.

The engine is coupled to a very responsive 9-Speed Automatic transmission which pulls the car quickly and it won’t flicker while overtaking on highways. The vehicle responds proactively to the driver’s inputs and there is no turbo-lag as well. Then again, the C-Class is a linear machine that doesn’t push you into the seat with its power but has a comfortable and luxurious approach to it. The bland exhaust note makes it a tad uninspiring to drive.

Models	Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 (RWD)	Lexus IS 300 Base (RWD)	Audi A4 Titanium (AWD)*	BMW 3-Series 330i (RWD)
MSRP	$41,400	$38,560	$42,000	$40,750
Engine	2.0L Turbo I4	2.0L Turbo I4	2.0L Turbo I4	2.0L Turbo I4
Transmission	9-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic
Horsepower	255 hp @5800 rpm	241 hp @5800 rpm	248 hp @5000 rpm	255 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque	273 lb-ft @1800 rpm	258 lb-ft @1650 rpm	273 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm	295 lb-ft @ 1550 rpm

Then again, the C-Class is a linear machine that doesn’t push you into the seat with its power but has a comfortable and luxurious approach to it. All of the competition is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine which helps all of them to settle under the same radar. In fact, the bimmer produces the same power and slightly more torque. Lexus is the least powerful of the lot. The power delivery also varies among the lot due to the different transmission setups.

How quick is the the 2020 C-Class in 0-60 run?

Acceleration is linear and it does 0-60 in an impressive 5.7 seconds which is pretty good for a rear-wheel-drive car. The precise gear ratios help the engine retain its power throughout without lagging and thus provide a quicker drive.

As the torque comes in as low as 1800 RPM, you will not have an issue in overtakes and the car will move without any lag. The 4MATIC variant has a similar character with the added benefit of all-wheel-drive and added cornering control.

Models	Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 (RWD)	Lexus IS 300 Base (RWD)	Audi A4 Titanium (AWD)*	BMW 3-Series 330i (RWD)
0-60 MPH	5.7 s	6.9 s	5.6 s	5.6 s
Quarter mile	14.1 s	N/A	14.4 s	14.0 s
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15k mi/yr)	5.2	6.0	5.4	4.9

The Merc is just behind the A4 with a difference of 0.1 seconds in the 0-60 run. Bimmer also has the same time at 5.6 seconds. The soundtracks of Audi A4 and BMW 330i are much more impressive than the Merc. Lexus fares last because of the least power and torque figures.

How well does the 2020 Mercedes C 300 handle?

The C-Class is a posh ride that transports you comfortably. The suspension setup takes care of all the imperfections on the road. Road and wind noise are well insulated and the cabin is quiet, with the upmarket interior making it a luxurious experience.

C-Class has four distinctive driving modes, namely, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ which change the driving characteristics accordingly. Eco and Comfort modes focus on passenger comfort and offer a plush ride whereas you get a stiffened suspension and a more responsive throttle and steering. It still doesn’t provide you with the zeal as the bimmer which is a much better driving car.

How firmly does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class stop from 60-0?

The brakes are responsive with all-around-disc brakes providing enough bite to get you safely out of any situation with the active brake assist. Electronic brake distribution makes sure that you get a seamless response from all the rotors.

The front rotors are one of the largest of the lot which helps in calmly bringing the sedan to halt. The brake pedal has an impressive response which doesn’t take time getting used to.

Models	Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 (RWD)	Lexus IS 300 Base (RWD)	Audi A4 Titanium (AWD)*	BMW 3-Series 330i (RWD)
Brake Front (in.)	13.0	13.1	12.4	12.3
Brake Rear (in.)	11.8	12.2	11.8	11.4
60-0 MPH (ft)	124	125	N/A	103

*2019 data used for comparison purpose

As per the available data, C-Class is the quickest from 60-0 MPH. This is mostly because of it being the lightest of the lot. Lexus IS 300 follows with a marginal difference in stopping distance. Audi A4 and BMW 330i will incidentally take more time to come to halt due to the comparatively heavier bodies.

C-Class provides good EPA numbers with a combined MPG of 28. The all-wheel-drive variant will suffer a bit but still manages to provide 24/35/29 for city/highway/combined. The precise 9-Speed Automatic transmission is responsible for providing us with these numbers.

The engine is not allowed to be stressed and thus facilitates in above-average figures. But then the curb weight limits it from performing better. Mercedes-Benz has equipped the C-Class with a large 17.4-gallon fuel tank which helps it provide the best range of the lot.

Models	Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 (RWD)	Lexus IS 300 Base (RWD)	Audi A4 Titanium (AWD)*	BMW 3-Series 330i (RWD)
MPG (city)	24	21	23	26
MPG (highway)	35	30	34	36
MPG (combined)	28	24	27	30
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gal.)	17.4	17.4	15.3	15.6
Range (City/Highway)	418/609	365/522	352/520	406/562

*2019 data used for comparison purpose

Audi does an impressive job of returning a combined 27 MPG despite being the heaviest of the lot. BMW is in the spotlight here with better overall EPA figures.

2020 C-Class flaunts, unarguably the most premium interior in its class. We do not need to talk about the build quality as Mercedes-Benz always nails it. The cabin is clearly laid out and therein lies the beauty. You are treated to an airy cabin unlike clustered ones like in other cars of this class. But the rear seats if comfortable are devoid of headroom which is a bummer. Three people are out of question here.

The seats are ergonomic and gives ample support in both the rows. The materials used are of the utmost quality and are devoid of any defects. A 10.25-inch infotainment screen is positioned high up at the center of the dashboard, which might look odd, but we kinda dig it as it gives it a floating appearance.

Models	Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 (RWD)	Lexus IS 300 Base (RWD)	Audi A4 Titanium (AWD)*	BMW 3-Series 330i (RWD)
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	37.1/55.3/41.7	38.2/55.9/44.8	38.9/55.9/41.3	38.7/56.0/42.0
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	37.1/55.0/35.2	36.9/53.4/32.2	37.4/54.5/35.7	37.6/54.6/35.2

*2019 data used for comparison purpose

The seats in C-Class are not spacious of the lot as its competition provides for a more airy experience. But the extremely supportive seats will forgive the space constraint. Lexus IS 300 has the most spacious front row whereas the most comfortable rear seats are in the BMW 330i.

What are the infotainment features?

Mercedes-Benz has given a lot of effort in providing a quirky experience. The standard setup is good and provides all the modern features and ticks most of the boxes. But we wish Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was free instead of being paid.

The Burmester Surround Sound System available with the Premium package is the takeaway part here as it actively uses the chassis of the vehicle to amplify bass and produce a more natural experience. The steering wheel has touch-sensitive buttons which, well becomes addictive after some time.

Infotainment Features

• 10.25-inch Hi-Res Center Display
• Steering wheel with touch button controls
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• FrontBass System
• Dual USB Audio Ports
• Central Controller
• Bluetooth Audio Streaming

Interior Features

• Power Front Seats with driver's seat memory
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Remote Start via Mercedes Me connect 
• 40/20/40 Split-folding rear seats
• Keyless Start
• Electronic Trunk Closer
• Homelink garage door opener
• Remote opening and closing of windows and sunroof

How much cargo can the C-Class take in?

Cargo space is satisfactory as 12.6 cubic feet is not much. The opening is also not wide and restricts loading and unloading. Foldable rear seats are a relief as it folds flat to provide you with added storage space.

Hooks and straps are provided to hold smaller or fragile items in place. The rear center armrest can alone go down to access the cargo compartment. The space is not half bad as two suitcases can fit in with ease.

Models	Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 (RWD)	Lexus IS 300 Base (RWD)	Audi A4 Titanium (AWD)*	BMW 3-Series 330i (RWD)
Cargo Volume (cu.-ft)	12.6	10.8	13.0	17.0

*2019 data used for comparison purpose

But that's about it and you should not expect much from the cargo space. BMW, on the other hand, provides the best cargo volume in the lot with 17 cubic feet. Lexus has the least and Audi A4 comes in close with the Merc at 13.0 cubic feet.

The 2020 C-Class is still sport with design clues shared with AMG line models. The front and rear fascia gets a mild yet noticeable update with bolder creases in the front bumper and a splitter like design at the rear. It now rides on 18-inch AMG alloy wheels which goes well with the car.

The all-LED headlamps and taillamps are standard and are a reminiscence of the C-Class. Available AMG line packages adds a lot more sportiness to the C-Class with a redesigned grille and AMG-line alloy wheels. The tapering roofline gives it a coupe-like body line that looks good but steals the headroom off the second row.

2020 C-Class is available in a total of 10 exterior color options but only has two standard options. The others are priced at a flat $720. There are two premium colors on offer: Designo Cardinal Red Metallic at $1,080 and Designo Diamond White Metallic at a heavy $1,515. We bet, you can’t get more unique than that!

Models	Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 (RWD)	Lexus IS 300 Base (RWD)	Audi A4 Titanium (AWD)*	BMW 3-Series 330i (RWD)
Length (in)	184.5	184.3	186.1	185.7
Width (in)	71.3	71.3	72.5	71.9
Height (in)	56.3	56.3	56.2	56.8
Ground clearance (in)	3.8	5.3	N/A	5.7
Wheelbase (in)	111.8	110.2	111.0	112.2
Track width (in) F/R	61.5/60.9	60.4/61.0	61.9/61.2	62.3/63.0
Curb weight (lbs)	3472	3583	3627	3589

*2019 data used for comparison purpose

Audi A4 is the longest of the lot by a margin and so is the difference in length among the lot. C-Class is the lowest with just 3.8 inches of ground clearance which favors high-speed maneuverability. All of the cars have more or less the same dimensions which makes it a tight fight. But the A4 weighs in at the most which steals off its performance. C-Class being the lightest makes it the most nimble of the lot.

Exterior Features

• Power tinted glass sunroof
• 18-inch AMG alloy wheels
• LED headlamps and taillamps
• Gloss Black Exterior accents
• Chrome Diamond block grille

Safety is top-notch on the C-Class as apart from the basic features, it also has a host of standard driver-assist features. The crash test results are not out yet but as there are minimal changes from last year, it should bag a top score of Good in all the measures.

The ATTENTION ASSIST feature is very useful as it monitors the driver and warns of drowsiness, a boon for long gruesome travels when we seldom rest. Apart from the standard list, you can also choose from an array of optional active and passive features.

Safety Features

• 6 airbags
• LED Daytime Running Lamps
• Blind Spot Assist
• Adaptive Braking Technology
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• Crosswind Alert
• Rearview Camera
• Electronic Stability Program
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers

2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan vs 2020 Lexus IS 300

The Japanese counterpart is a worthy opponent which has a well-isolated cabin that gives more weight for occupancy comfort and provides the best value for money proposition in terms of the feature list. It is a comfortable ride that goes uninterrupted over uneven surfaces. But Lexus’s best is not enough to topple the German as C-Class provides us with a much better-performing car which is high on features and the luxury offered is a class above. We choose the German over the Jap.

2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan vs 2020 Audi A4

The friendly neighbor has all the right boxes ticked. It even provides a more comfortable second-row than the C-Class. The infotainment is easy to use unlike the Merc and cabin has a lot of modern design elements. But then again it fails to provide the fine balance which the C-Class treats us with and is underpowered as well. We would choose Merc over the Audi.

2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan vs 2020 BMW 3-Series

You can call the BMW 330i, the Merc’s twin as it has almost the same performance figures and are more or less the same in external dimensions. But things start to change underneath as the bimmer provides you with a more well-planned cabin and much more cargo space. It has a similarly specced cabin with all the latest gizmos to entertain you. The bimmer looks much sharper and drives much better than the C-Class. It costs a bit less as well. This is a tough one but we would go with the Merc for the complete experience it provides.

 

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is a complete car. It has the perfect blend of performance, driving dynamics, and well built luxurious interior. We have better driving machines in the Audi A4 and BMW 330i, but for a sedan that fights it out in the commuter category, driving is not the only criterion that counts. Merc excels in all aspects and rewards you with a well-polished car that is much more luxurious than the competition. We would have loved for a more comfortable second-row seating but nothing can be 100 percent perfect and the C-Class is the closest one to it.