Mercedes Benz C-Class: What’s New for 2024?
The Mercedes-Benz C-class features small, sporty cars similar to the flagship S-class but more compact and affordable. Climb behind the wheel of one of these models and be amazed at what the manufacturer has included in the cabin without making it feel cramped. Features found in these models include premium display screens and high-end materials. The company didn’t stop there, however. It continues to find ways to improve on these fantastic cars. What can buyers expect to see when checking out this year’s models?
New Features for 2024
When visiting a Mercedes san antonio dealer, ask to see the C300 sedan. This model now features parking sensors and a wireless smartphone charging pad. SiriusXM satellite radio is also available, and the driver won’t pay extra for this feature. Mercedes opted to discontinue the coupe and convertible models, but drivers should check out the CLE-class vehicles, as they replaced those the company no longer makes.
The Cost of a C-Class Vehicle
Drivers want to know how much they will spend to get behind the wheel of one of these cars. Vehicles start at $48,100 and go up to $52,200 for the top trim level. The Premium is the entry-level model; the Exclusive is the mid-level option, and the top-of-the-line model is the Pinnacle, as the name suggests. Experts feel the Exclusive trim offers the best value. However, drivers have the option of upgrading their rides with the help of a la carte options. Some people want the AMG Line package to give the car a sportier look. Others opt for a sunroof and navigation. 4Matic all-wheel drive can also be added for an additional $2000.
Engine and Transmission Options
Every vehicle in the C-class lineup has a 255-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. A 48-volt hybrid system provides the turbo four with additional horsepower when needed, and Mercedes paired this engine with a nine-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all models, and drivers may upgrade to all-wheel drive if it better meets their needs.
Speed and Handling
Drivers find the all-wheel-drive C300 4Matic can go from zero to 60 mph in only 5.3 seconds, a drop of 0.1 seconds from the previous generation’s time. Handling is what one would expect from a small sports sedan, but many find the steering feel lacking. The vehicle can go from 70 miles per hour to zero in 165 feet, but the brake pedal could be firmer. The C63 S E-Performance is an excellent choice for added performance.
Fuel Efficiency
The Environmental Protection Agency reports rear-wheel-drive C-class vehicles get 25 miles per gallon in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Upgrading to all-wheel drive will decrease these numbers to 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Real-life fuel-economy tests found that the C300 4Matic achieved 35 miles per gallon on the highway. Drivers are sure to appreciate the additional fuel savings.
C-Class Interiors
Mercedes-Benz has a reputation for delivering luxurious vehicles, and the C-class is no exception. The cabin is filled with technology to make every ride more enjoyable. Drivers love the digital gauge display and touch-sensitive controls. The steering wheel in these models is similar to that found in the S-class, and all C-class models come with heated front seats with memory settings.
A sunroof is standard on C-class vehicles, and the cabin features open-pore wood trim paired with aluminum accents. Mercedes made this year’s models longer than previous years, so occupants have an additional 2.5 inches of room, and the wheelbase is now an inch longer. The manufacturer states it made this change to provide rear occupants with more legroom, although the added space isn’t noticeable to those inside the car. The backseat offers plenty of space, which is all they care about. C-class vehicles outperform the Audi A4 and BMW i4 in this area.
In these models, the 11.9-inch infotainment display is vertically oriented. It comes up from the center console, reaching up to the three round air vents on the upper dashboard. Drivers love that the touchscreen is tilted in their direction, making using the screen easier while driving. This system comes with the latest MBUX infotainment features. Drivers can use the voice-activated digital assistant, play music with the help of wireless Android Auto and Apple Car Play, and access the internet using the onboard Wi-Fi hotspot.
The features don’t stop with the infotainment system. C-class models also have a wireless smartphone charging pad, a fingerprint sensor for the memory settings, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. Buyers may upgrade the cabin to include ambient lighting, a head-up display, and a surround-sound stereo system from Burmester.
Cargo space is plentiful in C-class vehicles. Owners have 12.6 cubic feet to haul and store items in their cars. The Audi A4 offers only 12.0 cubic feet, while the BMW i4 has only 10.0 cubic feet.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
C-class vehicles are packed with safety and driver-assistance features. These features include pedestrian detection, automated emergency braking, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and front and back parking sensors. Buyers might upgrade their vehicles to include safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and lane-departure warnings.
Maintenance and Warranty
Unlike competitors, Mercedes-Benz doesn’t offer three years of complimentary maintenance with its vehicles. However, most items are covered for up to four years or 50,000 miles. Drivers appreciate knowing they won’t have a significant repair bill if something goes wrong with their car during that period.
The AMG Option
Drivers who want a high-performance C-class vehicle should take the C43 for a test drive. This 2.0-liter I-4 model takes its turbocharging technology from F1 racing. Drivers appreciate the 402 horsepower and 369 lb-ft torque under the hood and enjoy controlling the car with the help of all-wheel drive. This vehicle goes from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Upgrade to the C63 E Performance vehicle and receive 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque, allowing the car to go from zero to 60 mph in only 3.3 seconds.
Every driver should consider C-class vehicles today. These machines are affordable and offer the luxury and performance drivers want. One may be the ride you have been searching for.
