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2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan Preview

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Marie-Laurence Paquin
Pros and Cons*
Pros

Ergonomic controls, firm seating, the variety of available models, optional 4-wheel drive, comfort and great handling…all make this sedan a good contender.

Cons
However, you can fault the sedan for its overly-complicated multimedia system and lack of a manual transmission. Plus the C250’s engine runs out of steam, fast, and you have to pump it with premium gas.


Price
The starting model of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, the C 250, is offered at $37,300. This price includes 16-inch wheels, a multifunction steering wheel and heated rearview mirrors.

Just falling short $40,000, a psychological barrier to some, the AWD C 300 4MATIC is sold for $39,900 and features 17-inch wheels.

The C 350 is available from $44,750, including 18-inch wheels, the heated Mirror Package and the Sport Package (3-spoke steering wheel, upgraded calipers and aluminum pedals). In AWD, the C 350 4MATIC is sold from $47,700.

The powerful 4-door Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG starts at $65,300 and includes 18-inch wheels, AMG Sport steering, a 3-step Electronic Stability Program, Sport suspension, an AMG braking system, chromed dual-exhaust sport system and AMG Sports seats.

For an extra $6,000, the AMG Performance Package gives you red brake calipers, limited-slip rear differential, carbon fibre trim, an AMG spoiler and an additional 30 hp.

Fuel Economy
The most fuel efficient of all the models, the C 250 consumes 9.L/100 in the city and 6.2 L/100 km on the highway.

The C 300 4MATIC, C 350 and C 350 4MATIC all have similar fuel ratings, around 10.5 L/100 km – city and 7.3 L/100 km – highway.

For the C 63 AMG, its 15.8 L/100 km in the city and 10.1 L/100 km on the highway.

New and Improved for 2013
  • Style modifications on the 2012 model
  • The C 250 4MATIC has been dropped
  • Some standard equipment now optional
  • ECO start/stop function on V6 versions
Exterior Styling
With pure, simple contours, this conservative sedan presents a refined style. Modern and sporty, the C-Class also features a double-lamella radiator grille branded with a star, the Merc logo as well as headlights underscored by LED lighting, integrated indicators on the side mirrors and a sophisticated stern.

Drivetrain
The C250’s 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbo engine yields 201 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque to the back wheels.

The AWD, C 300 4MATIC is propelled by a 3.5-litre, V6 engine that delivers 248 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque.

Both the C 350 (two-wheel) and the C 350 4MATIC (all-wheel) are equipped with the same 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. All engines are coupled with a 7-speed, 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission.

The C 63 AMG is equipped with a 6.2-litre V8 engine that packs 451 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. With the Performance Package, the hp is revved up to 481.

This model is also fitted with a 7-speed, SPEEDSHIFT MGT AMG transmission.

Cargo Capacity
There’s 475 of trunk space in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan.

Safety
This model is equipped with seven airbags as well as many active safety systems, including crash-responsive pedals, brake warning wear display and NECK-PRO headrests.

Comparable Models

Acura TL, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac ATS, Infiniti G, Lexus IS, Lincoln MKZ

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan front view
Photo: Mercedes-Benz

*References
Brière Francis, L’annuel de l’automobile 2013, Montréal Transcontinental, 2012, p.418
Gélinas Gabriel, Le guide de l’auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions de l’Homme, 2012, p.444
http://www.mercedes-benz.ca
Marie-Laurence Paquin
Marie-Laurence Paquin
Automotive expert
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