2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Convertible
| MSRP | $59,500 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $60,550 |
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review
- Interior is impeccably crafted
- Many available cutting-edge features
- A range of high-horsepower engines available
- Clumsy touchpad infotainment interface
- C 300's optional sport suspension rides too harshly
- Limited cargo space
- A 12.3-inch driver display and heated front seats are now standard
- New Night Edition package adds black exterior trim
- Part of the fourth C-Class generation introduced for 2015
Mercedes' new S-Class certainly sets new standards for luxury and opulence. But you know, you might not be able to afford a six-figure executive sedan with facial recognition and a fingerprint scanner. If so, you might want to consider the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Available in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles, the C-Class is a versatile small luxury car that offers an appealing mix of comfort, performance and top-notch construction.
But this current-generation C-Class — it dates back to the 2015 model year — is getting on its years, and it lacks the newest Mercedes infotainment interface. As such, the A-Class and the E-Class — the two vehicles that bookend the C-Class in terms of price and size — feel more modern and up-to-date. Check out our Edmunds Expert Rating for the full rundown of this Merc's hits and misses.
Our verdict | |
The C 300 Cabriolet flatters its occupants with all the trappings of a modern Mercedes. Its well-crafted interior and advanced technology are at the top of the class. But when fully optioned, it can be more than a bit expensive. And some of those options, such as the AMG Line package and larger wheels, do more harm than good. | |
How does the C-Class drive? | |
The C 300 Cabriolet's turbocharged four-cylinder is sufficiently quick and provides more than adequate power for passing slower traffic. It brakes well too. It's easy to stop smoothly in routine driving or quickly in emergencies. The nine-speed automatic transmission performs with luxury-car smoothness in everyday situations. The auto stop-start system is less refined and rocks the car when the engine churns to life. The C 300, when fitted with the optional sport-tuned suspension, feels planted and secure when driving around turns. The steering effort has an appropriate amount of heft at higher speeds, allowing for more precise and predictable control than you might expect from an entry-level convertible. The optional summer tires provide an almost surplus of grip. | |
How comfortable is the C-Class? | |
The C-Class Cabriolet's single most significant problem is its rough ride. The C 300 should be the most relaxed and comfortable trim in the lineup, but our tester's AMG Line package (which includes a sport-tuned suspension) should be avoided at all costs. The optional 19-inch wheels, which our car also had, don't help either. The well-insulated top keeps the interior comfortable when it's up, but the climate system is no match for the top down on a cool day. Again, with the top up, outside noise is barely noticeable. Stowing the top creates more wind buffeting than we expected, and the C 300 exhibits severe body shudder and shake on broken roads. On the other hand, the front seats offer plenty of adjustment and lateral support. The padding is firm, but the contoured surfaces make them comfortable for long drives. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The C-Class' interior impresses with a graceful-looking dashboard and minimalist control layout. Though Mercedes pared down the physical buttons, it uses on-screen buttons in the infotainment system. Its menu structure is a little complicated and takes time to learn. Otherwise, the cabin is quite nice. The front seats are spacious enough that tall adults won't feel confined, and the driver's seat offers a multitude of adjustments so you can find a perfect position. The back seat is predictably cramped for a luxury convertible, and the rear view is compromised by the small rear window and rear headrests. The power top takes about 20 seconds to raise or lower, and it can be operated at speeds up to 30 mph. When stowed, the top is concealed under a nicely finished hard cover. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The C-Class' infotainment system requires a bit of a learning curve but has great-looking graphics. You can also use a variety of inputs to operate it, such as wheel-mounted touchpads or the central control knob. The optional Burmester audio system sounds great. While it lacks the newest MBUX system found in new Benzes, the C-Class' voice recognition system is accurate, even with the top down at highway speeds. The advanced safety systems work well overall and avoid triggering false alarms. | |
How’s the storage? | |
It should come as no surprise that you'll need to make some sacrifices with a convertible when it comes to utility. The trunk only measures 8.8 cubic feet, so fitting luggage for a weekend getaway might be a challenge. In-cabin storage isn't plentiful either, but the bins and pockets that do exist are well sized. As is typical for most small convertibles, a rear-facing child seat will simply not fit if there's a passenger in front. But at least the car seat anchor points are clearly marked and easy to access. | |
How’s the fuel economy? | |
The EPA estimates its fuel economy at 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway), which is a few mpg lower than rivals. As a result of our enthusiastic driving style in our test car, we didn't even manage to break past an 18 mpg average. | |
Is the C-Class a good value? | |
In price, it starts close to the BMW 4 Series and the Audi A5. While the Mercedes does inhabit the luxury end of the spectrum, options can add up very quickly. Our loaded-up C 300 test car came close to $70,000, which is a lot for a small base-trim luxury convertible. The excellent materials and build quality at least make it easier to swallow the bitter pill of the price tag. The four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty is average for the class, as is roadside assistance for the same parameters. Complimentary scheduled maintenance is not included. | |
Wildcard | |
If a Mercedes-Benz convertible is at the top of your shopping list, you will not be disappointed with the C 300 Cabriolet. For the occasional top-down trip in perfect weather, it's tough to beat. But when the weather or the roads aren't perfect, the car's shortcomings in ride comfort and refinement are a little too obvious. | |
Which C-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Mercedes-Benz C-Class models
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a small luxury car sold in sedan, coupe and convertible (Cabriolet) body styles. Five trims are available in increasing levels of performance: C 300, C 300 4Matic, AMG C 43, AMG C 63 and AMG C 63 S. Most models use rear-wheel drive, though the C 300 4Matic and AMG C 43 feature all-wheel drive. Regardless of engine, a nine-speed automatic is the only transmission available.
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Convertible pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Convertible Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $54,700
- MPG & Fuel
- 23 City / 31 Hwy / 26 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 4 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 9-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 255 hp @ 5800 rpm
- Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 184.5 in. / Height: 55.5 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 79.4 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 71.6 in.
- Curb Weight: 3869 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 8.8 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite C-Class safety features:
- 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.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs. the competition
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2021 BMW 3 Series
Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs. BMW 3 Series
So long has the C-Class versus BMW 3 Series rivalry lasted that pictographs depicting the struggle were found in an unearthed Egyptian tomb believed to be built during the 12th dynasty. The most recent volley in this eternal conflict was fired in 2019 when BMW last redesigned the 3 Series. The 3 Series and the C-Class are pretty evenly matched but stand as only midpack models in our rankings of small luxury sedans.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs. Audi A4
Audi is content to let Mercedes and BMW duke it out while its own compact quietly sits near the top of our rankings of the best small luxury sedans. The Audi A4 was redesigned in 2017, but constant updates mean that every new A4 is better than last year's. We commend the A4 for its tech-forward interior design, high levels of comfort, and roomy, adult-friendly cabin. With standard all-wheel drive and a smattering of included driving aids, the Audi offers surprising value too.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs. Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is perhaps the strongest reason not to buy a C-Class. It's smaller and comes with front-wheel drive by default, but we think the A-Class bests its bigger brother in a variety of ways. Introduced just a couple years ago, the A-Class has a more comprehensive set of tech features, and the infotainment system's MBUX interface is unquestionably superior to the C-Class' COMAND unit.
People who viewed this also viewed
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class:
- A 12.3-inch driver display and heated front seats are now standard
- New Night Edition package adds black exterior trim
- Part of the fourth C-Class generation introduced for 2015
Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class reliable?
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
The least-expensive 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $54,700.
Other versions include:
- C 300 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $54,700
- C 300 4MATIC 2dr Convertible AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $56,700
- AMG C 43 2dr Convertible AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $65,500
- AMG C 63 S 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $85,600
- AMG C 63 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $78,000