2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review
2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review
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2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review
byCameron Rogers
Senior News Editor
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.Pros
- Interior is impeccably crafted
- Many available cutting-edge features
- A range of high-horsepower engines available
Cons
- Clumsy touchpad infotainment interface
- C 300's optional sport suspension is rides too harshly
- Limited cargo room
What's new
- A few previously optional features are now standard
- Part of the fourth C-Class generation introduced for 2015
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a versatile small luxury car in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles, each with the choice of three distinct engines. Its richly detailed cabin distinguishes it from cost-cutting forebears and exudes the quality that premium-car buyers expect. It's not the newest or most competitive car in the segment, but the C-Class is still a great buy, provided you check the right options boxes.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $5.33 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$230/mo
C-Class C 300
vs
$237/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
7.6 /10
The C-Class delivers respectable performance, impressive comfort, and a luxurious cabin loaded with advanced technology. A wealth of options means you can tailor the car to taste, but those options can add up quick. At a certain point, the Benz's traditional rivals start to look like better values. But there's no denying the Benz's attention to quality and the gravity of its elegant, old-school luxury feel.
Rated for you by America’s best test team.
Performance
8.0/10
How does the C-Class drive? The C-Class we tested, the C 300, places few demands on the driver. It makes sufficient power for a luxury sedan with a base engine and, when equipped with the optional AMG sport suspension, offers exceptional handling. You also get responsive steering and unflappable braking.
Acceleration feels strong. The C 300 has an Edmunds-tested 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds, though it trails both the Audi A4 (5.3 seconds) and the BMW 330i (5.6 seconds) a tad. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but it can seem a little hesitant to downshift when you're driving in the default Comfort drive mode. You can liven it up with the Sport mode, but then the shifting can seem overcaffeinated.
Acceleration feels strong. The C 300 has an Edmunds-tested 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds, though it trails both the Audi A4 (5.3 seconds) and the BMW 330i (5.6 seconds) a tad. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but it can seem a little hesitant to downshift when you're driving in the default Comfort drive mode. You can liven it up with the Sport mode, but then the shifting can seem overcaffeinated.
Comfort
7.0/10
How comfortable is the C-Class? It's unfortunate that the C 300 scores so poorly here. We like how the front seats are supremely comfortable and offer a broad range of adjustment for all body types. The climate control system is full-featured and effective too.
But our test car had the optional AMG sport suspension coupled with 19-inch wheels. So equipped, the C 300 suffers from an overly firm ride quality. There's a constant level of jarring vibration that will make you question whether the car is, in fact, a Mercedes-Benz. The engine too comes across as unrefined, and it sounds buzzy when you lay into the gas pedal.
But our test car had the optional AMG sport suspension coupled with 19-inch wheels. So equipped, the C 300 suffers from an overly firm ride quality. There's a constant level of jarring vibration that will make you question whether the car is, in fact, a Mercedes-Benz. The engine too comes across as unrefined, and it sounds buzzy when you lay into the gas pedal.
Interior
8.0/10
How’s the interior? An elegant center stack with only the most necessary controls adds to the C 300's classy vibe. Unfortunately, the price for this minimalist design is that some functions lack physical buttons. The only way to access them is through menus in the infotainment display screen.
Getting in and out is easy thanks to wide door openings and a tall enough ride height. It makes entry feel more like sliding in than dropping in. There's plenty of room up front, and the wide range of seating adjustments ensures drivers of all sizes can find a comfortable and commanding driving position. On the downside, it has less rear legroom and footroom than some rival luxury sedans.
Getting in and out is easy thanks to wide door openings and a tall enough ride height. It makes entry feel more like sliding in than dropping in. There's plenty of room up front, and the wide range of seating adjustments ensures drivers of all sizes can find a comfortable and commanding driving position. On the downside, it has less rear legroom and footroom than some rival luxury sedans.
Technology
8.5/10
How’s the tech? The C 300's infotainment system gets a boost for 2019. Our test car had the optional 10.25-inch display (a 7-inch display is standard) and we liked its crisp, clear graphics. You can control the infotainment system in many ways, including touchpad controllers on the steering wheel and a more traditional dial-and-button array. It's overkill, but all the controls work seamlessly, and many drivers will appreciate the choice.
The optional Burmester sound system is excellent, and the optional digital gauge cluster is worth the expense. It puts the status and control of several functions (navigation, audio, phone) in your direct line of sight. Driver assist features work well and are well-calibrated, but they're a pricey option.
The optional Burmester sound system is excellent, and the optional digital gauge cluster is worth the expense. It puts the status and control of several functions (navigation, audio, phone) in your direct line of sight. Driver assist features work well and are well-calibrated, but they're a pricey option.
Storage
7.0/10
How’s the storage? The C 300's trunk (12.6 cubic feet) is small for the class. A low bumper height and a fairly wide trunk opening make it easy to load luggage and gear. But the trunk is deeper than it is wide, and there's no compensating for the lack of overall space. The cabin doesn't offer a lot of places to store your small items either.
Got kids? You won't have trouble finding the lower car-seat anchors and rear tether points. But because of the C-Class' limited rear legroom, installing a bulky rear-facing seat might be a tight squeeze depending on where you position the front seats.
Got kids? You won't have trouble finding the lower car-seat anchors and rear tether points. But because of the C-Class' limited rear legroom, installing a bulky rear-facing seat might be a tight squeeze depending on where you position the front seats.
Fuel Economy
7.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? We tested the C 300 with all-wheel drive. The EPA estimates it gets 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is a bit less than rivals. We recorded an underwhelming 24 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route.
Value
7.0/10
Is the C-Class a good value? A base C-Class is competitively priced. But adding options quickly pushes the price skyward. Our loaded test car was $63,525 as equipped. Many of its options were nice but not essential — and in the case of the AMG Line package, with its stiff suspension, and the optional 19-inch wheels, we'd argue detrimental.
The A-Class is the new "entry-level" Benz, but C-Class has been the traditional point of entry. So for an entry-level luxury car, build quality is exceptional. There's an impressive attention to detail and fit and finish in this mass-produced luxe sedan. Panel fit, controls, trim and brightwork are all very solid.
The A-Class is the new "entry-level" Benz, but C-Class has been the traditional point of entry. So for an entry-level luxury car, build quality is exceptional. There's an impressive attention to detail and fit and finish in this mass-produced luxe sedan. Panel fit, controls, trim and brightwork are all very solid.
Wildcard
7.5/10
The C 300 can range from mild to wild, the latter especially when equipped with the optional AMG package. We're not sure it's worth it since the ride comfort is a significant downgrade from what we'd consider to be the peak Benz experience of a competent, coddling ride. The AMG package can be a thrill for some drivers, although for those drivers, we'd recommend simply moving up to the C 43 for more power and overall sportiness.
Absent the stiff suspension and ride, though, the C-Class remains a kind of old-school luxury experience, with the benefit of modern tech, design, connectivity and driver safety. The margins between its rivals are thin, but the Benz still exudes a bit more elegance and grace.
Absent the stiff suspension and ride, though, the C-Class remains a kind of old-school luxury experience, with the benefit of modern tech, design, connectivity and driver safety. The margins between its rivals are thin, but the Benz still exudes a bit more elegance and grace.
Which C-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Though we remain absolutely captivated by the V8 models, most buyers will find the standard C 300 and its turbocharged four-cylinder offer enough performance. Mercedes offers a wealth of options, but keep it simple to avoid sky-high pricing. The main packages to consider are the Premium package (Burmester premium audio system, ambient lighting and satellite radio) and the Driving Assistance package (adaptive cruise control and other driver aids).
2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class models
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a compact luxury car sold in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles. Trims are available in increasing levels of performance — C 300, C 300 4Matic, AMG C 43, AMG C 63 and AMG C 63 S. The C 300, AMG C 63 and AMG C 63 S are rear-wheel-drive, while the C 300 4Matic and AMG C 43 are all-wheel-drive. All use a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The C 300 and C 300 4Matic come standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (255 horsepower, 273 lb-ft of torque). You also get LED headlights, a sunroof, a power-closing trunklid, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and simulated leather upholstery (MB-Tex).
Standard tech includes the COMAND infotainment system with a 10.3-inch central display screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a five-speaker audio system. Safety systems include a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
The AMG C 43 primarily adds a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (385 hp, 384 lb-ft), upgraded brakes, a sport-tuned suspension with selectable damper settings, an aerodynamic body kit, a sport exhaust, sport front seats, simulated-suede seat inserts, ambient lighting and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system.
The AMG C 63 and AMG C 63 S offer similar equipment, with the notable difference of a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (469 hp, 479 lb-ft with the C 63; 503 hp, 516 lb-ft with the C 63 S), a high-performance transmission and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. The AMG C 63 S also adds 19-inch wheels, configurable steering wheel controls and leather upholstery.
Some features on the high-performance models can be added to the lower trims as well. Several packages are optional across all trims. These include the Multimedia package (navigation and a touchpad controller), the Parking Assistance package (automated parking and a surround-view camera), and the Driving Assistance package (adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a lane-centering system).
Notable stand-alone options, depending on trim, include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, tri-zone climate control, a head-up display and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The AMG C 63 S is exclusively available with high-performance carbon-ceramic brakes.
Driven: The Mercedes-AMG C 43 Gets a Trick Turbo Boost
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Classy Mercedes-Benz
Bertha ,07/27/2020
C 300 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
Smooth ride, many awesome features plus luxurious at the right price!
5 out of 5 stars
Silver and Red Beauty
Joseph ATX,10/27/2020
C 300 4MATIC 2dr Convertible AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
I’ve had this car for over a year. I had to order the car to get silver with a red interior and top with the driver assist package. It’s a very comfortable car. I took a 4K mile road trip as soon as it arrived. On the road it got 32 to 33 mpg. The ride is smooth and the acceleration is good. The driver assist package has some nice features. I got it mainly for adaptive cruise control. … Mercedes makes it hard to get and expensive - driver assist requires the navigation package. There have been no mechanical issues in the past year. One complaint is the trunk can only be opened with the key fob or a release inside the car. Another is the ventilated seats are not cooled. They only blow air through the seats that is the same temperature as the air in the car making it a useless feature on a warm day with the top down. Overall I am pleased with this car and plan to drive it many years.
I've had the car just over 2 years. There has only been one problem beyond regular maintenance. When putting the top down the cover that closes over the top was not going all the down. The local dealer lubricated the parts associated with lowering the top. That fixed the problem. It has worked perfectly since.
Insurance is expensive. Before buying the car I had read that was the case with the C class. It cost more to insure this car than the two cars we had before this one (228i convertible and Golf R).
After two years I am still happy with the car and will continue to drive it for many years.
Edmunds is asking for an update at 2 years and 9 months. The starter battery had to be replaced. We don't put a lot of miles on the car. Mercedes told us we should drive more. The problem with the cover over the top closing completely came back. This time Mercedes replaced various cables in the top and the top liner. It has worked well since. Both the battery and top repair were under warranty. After almost 3 years I still enjoy driving this car.
5 out of 5 stars
Love this car
Patti,11/11/2020
C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
This is my second c300 and I love this car. It’s not to big but has plenty of room for adults in the back seat. It has great, luxurious options, great acceleration, plenty of space and love that the back seats fold down when you need extra room
5 out of 5 stars
C300 Cabrio
Hiram,03/03/2020
C 300 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
Awesome performance for a 4 cylinder. Great technology and comfort options. White with saddle brown leather and dark brown soft top looks classy. The details and quality of the vehicle is great.
Safety
Our experts like the C-Class models:
- Active Brake Assist
- Warns the driver audibly and applies the brakes if it senses a front collision.
- Surround-View System
- Gives a 360-degree view of the car for tight parking lots and spaces so you can avoid striking objects or pedestrians.
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- Senses when a vehicle enters one of your blind spots. Can warn the driver and even help steer the C-Class.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
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More about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Overview
The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is offered in the following submodels: C-Class AMG C 43, C-Class AMG C 63, C-Class Sedan, C-Class Coupe, C-Class AMG C 63 S, C-Class Convertible. Available styles include C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), C 300 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 43 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), C 300 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), C 300 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 63 S 2dr Coupe (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), C 300 4MATIC 2dr Convertible AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 43 2dr Coupe AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), C 300 4MATIC 2dr Coupe AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 43 2dr Convertible AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 63 S 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 63 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 63 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG C 63 2dr Coupe (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), and AMG C 63 S 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A). Pre-owned Mercedes-Benz C-Class models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine or a 3.0 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 385 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes with rear wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic. The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
Price comparisons for Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class trim styles:
- The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 is priced between $35,411 and$50,999 with odometer readings between 2237 and40758 miles.
- The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 4MATIC is priced between $36,990 and$61,995 with odometer readings between 369 and50438 miles.
- The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG C 43 is priced between $53,500 and$69,898 with odometer readings between 6948 and23909 miles.
- The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG C 63 is priced between $80,990 and$83,999 with odometer readings between 12969 and17285 miles.
- The Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG C 63 S is priced between $76,487 and$76,487 with odometer readings between 10857 and10857 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Classes are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class for sale near. There are currently 49 used and CPO 2020 C-Classes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $35,411 and mileage as low as 369 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Can't find a used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Classs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
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Should I lease or buy a 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials
Check out Mercedes-Benz C-Class lease specials
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