The Mercedes 2024 C-Class boasts strong and efficient engines and helpful technology features. But some distracting-to-use controls and lackluster comfort prevent the C-Class from being a standout pick for a small luxury sedan.Read full review
Quick acceleration from AMG C 43 and C 63 S E Performance variants
Cons
Comfort is somewhat elusive
Some controls are distracting to use
What's new
High-performance AMG C 63 sedan debuts
Coupe and convertible variants dropped in favor of new CLE model
Part of the fifth C-Class generation introduced for 2023
Overview
Though many people prefer SUVs to sedans, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an appealing choice in a luxury car with a base price under $50,000. With S-Class looks, an appealing high-tech interior, and the rewarding driving dynamics frequently the domain of cars and not crossovers, the 2024 C-Class delivers class and cachet at a relatively reasonable price. And if you choose to upgrade to the AMG C 43 or the new-for-2024 AMG C 63 S E Performance, you'll experience a compact luxury sedan offering big, or even bigger, thrills. Be sure to read our testing team's full Expert Rating of the C-Class to learn more.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 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 $3.74 per gallon for premium unleaded in Iowa.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 S E Performance is an outrageously powerful and capable new version of one of our favorite small luxury sedans. But something has been lost in translation: viscerality. This new generation's limits are so high that you can only exploit them on a track and the electronics won't allow you to access the vehicle's full potential under most circumstances anyway. The AMG C 63 used to be Germany's muscle car, Stuttgart by way of NASCAR. Now, it's a technological juggernaut and an important transitional step on the automaker's roadmap to going fully electric by 2030. Unfortunately, with all its weight and complexity, and without its signature V8 roar, it's not nearly as much fun.
Competitors to consider
Typically, people will cross-shop the Mercedes-Benz C-Class against its primary rivals from Germany, the Audi A4/S4 and the BMW 3 Series/M3. However, the Tesla Model 3 is the best-selling car in the compact luxury sedan segment even though it's electric. If you're thinking outside of the box, the Cadillac CT5 and Lexus IS lineups offer intrigue, especially if you're pining for a high-performance V8 engine driving a car's rear wheels.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our Verdict
The 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.
Good
7.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The Mercedes 2024 C-Class boasts strong and efficient engines and helpful technology features. But some distracting-to-use controls and lackluster comfort prevent the C-Class from being a standout pick for a small luxury sedan.
How does the C-Class drive? We tested the C 300, which has a turbocharged mild hybrid four-cylinder engine. The mild hybridization helps smooth out acceleration. Accelerating to 60 mph takes just 5.8 seconds, which is plenty of punch for day-to-day driving. The transmission shifts quickly and unobtrusively, too.
Our test car had the benefit of the optional AMG Line sport package, which adds a sport suspension and upgraded brakes and tunes the steering for a more direct and quick response, among other things. All three make this standard C-Class' driving dynamics feel sharp. We are truly impressed with how the C 300 comports itself through turns and how effortless it is to guide it where you want to go.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the C-Class? We can't say for sure how much the AMG Line sport package compromises comfort, but we did find our C 300 to be less comfortable than many rivals in the small luxury class. The suspension, while not harsh, was definitely busier than we'd like and transmitted a lot of road texture into the cabin. That's good for steering and handling, not so much for ride comfort. The AMG sport seats, while mostly supportive, took some time to adjust for comfort and never really felt just right. They also had a non-perforated upholstery that began to feel swampy after driving for more than an hour.
The climate controls are all touchscreen-based with a dedicated spot on the screen. The system has ample cooling capacity, but we felt the need to manually control the fan speed because it didn't seem to blow enough air when left on the auto setting. The greatest strength of the C-Class, at least in terms of comfort, was how quiet the cabin remained. It keeps all manner of sounds outside and you barely hear the engine at startup or idle.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? When it comes to interiors, Mercedes-Benz stands above its competitors in terms of design and material quality. So why just an average score? Function plays a big role, and the C-Class fails to impress. We found the cabin wasn't all that easy to get in and out of due to our C 300 test car's low ride height. As a driver, we were constantly fidgeting to find the best seating position, and the door-mounted controls just aren't as natural to use as they are in a more conventional seat-mounted location. We also found Mercedes-Benz's move to touch-sensitive steering wheel controls less user-friendly than the older-generation's thumb pads.
If there's one thing the C-Class does get right, it's passenger space. There's generally more of it by the numbers compared to competitors, and while we wouldn't call the cabin cavernous, it never feels cramped.
Save as much as $8,842 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $8,842 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE trim.
2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class pricing in Des Moines, IA
How’s the tech? Mercedes continues to lead the way in tech. Mercedes' navigation system is the only built-in navigation system that comes close to being as good as what you'll find by connecting a modern smartphone. For the directionally challenged, it's a boon since the clarity of commands is virtually unrivaled. For those who still prefer their phone's OS, you have the option of wireless or USB-connected Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Benz's larger touchscreen also maximizes the projection experience with more real estate for icons or the map when using a smartphone connection.
To top this off, you have Mercedes-Benz's ultra-advanced voice recognition system and excellent Burmester audio system. The advanced driver aid suite is fully functional, though we found the adaptive cruise control's acceleration and braking to be overly strong at times. But the 360-degree camera system is excellent and very handy for navigating tight confines.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? The C-Class provides effective trunk space, and its remote seat-folding buttons make opening the space between the trunk and the flat-folding rear seats quick and easy. There's a useful amount of bonus underfloor storage as well. Trunk hinges are shrouded so they'll never crush your grocery bags, and you have a total of 12.6 cubic feet of space to work with, which is about average for this vehicle segment.
Storage for small items in the cabin includes an adequate center armrest with split-opening doors, tandem cupholders that can be removed altogether when they aren't needed, and average-size door pockets. Not bad but nothing exceptionally clever beyond the cupholders.
For car seats, easy-access Isofix anchor and tether points are helpful. Moving kids in and out still isn't as easy as in a minivan or SUV, but it's about typical for this class.
How’s the fuel economy? Thanks to its 48-volt mild hybrid system, the C 300 gets a respectable 29 mpg in combined city/highway driving, according to EPA estimates. We averaged 30.7 mpg in the C 300 on our real-world evaluation route, which tells us the estimates are achievable. Considering the power this engine delivers, this level of efficiency surprised us.
Value
8/10
Is the C-Class a good value? Mercedes-Benz is typically more expensive than competitors, but the gap isn't terrible with the base C 300. While it's an overused cliché, this is a case where you get what you pay for. This C-Class presents like an E-Class, meaning it packs much more luxury than its compact size would suggest. Material choice and design are always on point, while panel fit and the controls manage to outclass the segment.
Mercedes' four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties are unremarkable for the segment. Unlike some competitors, there's no complimentary maintenance.
Wildcard
8/10
The C-Class is respectably fun to drive, even in C 300 form. And Mercedes continues to impress us with just how much luxury it can cram into a compact package. And though we don't dislike the latest exterior design, it fails to create any excitement.
Which C-Class does Edmunds recommend?
We recommend the C 300 Exclusive. That is the midlevel trim, adding an excellent Burmester premium sound system and granting access to a Driver Assistance package with a long list of active driving aids.
The reviews for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class show a mixed sentiment among owners. Many people love the car's beautiful design, comfortable ride, and great features like a big touchscreen and smooth acceleration. However, several owners have had problems with complicated electronics, faulty parts, and the car unexpectedly breaking down. It's a good-looking luxury car, but some folks are worried about its reliability.
This summary is AI-generated from the text of owner reviews
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Most Helpful Owner Review
Dash Goes Blank after 5000 miles
1 out of 5 stars
Disappointed Buyer in St Pete, 02/16/2023
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
I am so disappointed this was my 4th Mercedes Benz. I waited 9 months for my custom made Benz C300 Cabriolet and after only 5000 miles the dash computers went blank and made the car underivable. I have been without my car for 8 weeks now. They were going to reprogram the computers but after 3 weeks they told me they had to order a whole new dash. They say the dash was shipped 1/26/23 but … there is not tracking number, very suspicious. It took 3 weeks for Hona, Executive Referral Manager to finally reach me by phone and now they say if I want to declare it a lemon I may want to seek legal council; which I may do in order to get all my money back and damages. Oh by the way, and I’m still paying $1200/mo for a car I can’t drive. They say it’s the Chinese Chip maker and they had one plant in Germany that had major problems. I am thinking I need to buy a used car, pre-Covid. Wish I had someone on my side to help me here. The customer service at the dealership is good but they don’t know anything about when the parts will be here. And the followup with the delivery is every two weeks.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, so we've included review for other years of the C-Class since its last redesign.
Among traditional compact luxury sedans equipped with internal combustion engines, the BMW 3 Series is likely the most common alternative to the C-Class. There are many reasons to consider the 3 Series (including the performance-oriented M3 version), but styling isn't one of them. The latest C-Class is conservatively penned but quite appealing, and the interior of the Mercedes is also more upscale. Both cars offer industry-leading technology.
What the Cadillac CT5 lacks in overall refinement and sophistication compared to the Mercedes C-Class, it gains in comfort, interior room and value. Plus, the Cadillac offers a hands-free driving assist system called Super Cruise, and in CT5-V Blackwing specification, the handsome Caddy takes the V8-powered torch from the old AMG C 63 S and runs with it like Usain Bolt with his shorts on fire.
Apples and oranges, you say? Well, consumers vote with their wallets, and the electric Tesla Model 3 is the best-selling compact luxury sedan in America. The Tesla is eligible for a full $7,500 federal income tax credit, too, as long as you're under a certain income threshold. And for about 55 grand (before the tax credit), the Model 3 Performance rips to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds. Umm, AMG C 63 S E Performance, who now?
Warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios.
Blind-Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist
Warns if a vehicle is approaching your blind spot during a lane change or when opening a door into traffic.
Active Emergency Stop Assist
Senses if the driver is incapacitated and automatically turns on the hazard lights, brings the vehicle to a stop and summons assistance.
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 C-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 C-Class gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 33 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the C-Class has 12.6 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class:
High-performance AMG C 63 sedan debuts
Coupe and convertible variants dropped in favor of new CLE model
Part of the fifth C-Class generation introduced for 2023
To determine whether the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the C-Class. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the C-Class's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 C-Class and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 C-Class gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 33 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 C-Class is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
The least-expensive 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $46,950.
Other versions include:
C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $46,950
C 300 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $48,950
AMG C 43 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $60,700
AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 9A) which starts at $83,900
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
If you're interested in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the next question is, which C-Class model is right for you? C-Class variants include C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A), C 300 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A), AMG C 43 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A), and AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 9A). For a full list of C-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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