Review and specifications
2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The redesigned C-Class builds on the sportiness of the previous version, with a polished powertrain and honed handling. But the overly-complicated controls and a spongy brake pedal mar what is otherwise a splendid-driving sedan. The C300's punchy, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder and smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic give plenty of invigorating power anytime you need it. The powertrain benefits from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that contributes to the car's commendable 29 mpg overall. Handling is sporty thanks to a tightly controlled chassis and sharp steering. The ride is steady and composed, but too stiff with the optional AMG sport suspension. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and cabin fit and finish is impressive. The infotainment system is still distracting, and some new capacitive-touch controls add further frustrations. AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection and BSW are standard. It's disappointing that reverse automatic emergency braking, and LDW are only optional.
- Market value
- $40,950
- Fuel
- Conventional
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Seats
- 5
At a glance
Model data
Overview
- Powertrain
- Conventional
- Body style
- sedan
- Drive type
- AWD
- Transmission
- Automatic, 9-speed
- Category
- Luxury small cars
- Generation began
- 2022
Pricing
- Current retail median
- $40,950
- Retail value range
- $31,775 - $65,575
- Original MSRP range
- $44,850 - $90,000
- Trade-in range
- $29,160 - $61,430
Ratings
- Road test score
- 74/100
- Owner satisfaction
- 4/5
- Would buy again
- 64%
- Reliability
- 3/5
Fuel economy
- EPA city
- 24 MPG
- EPA highway
- 33 MPG
- EPA combined
- 27 MPG
- Tested city
- 18 MPG
- Tested highway
- 43 MPG
- Tested overall
- 29 MPG
- Annual fuel cost
- $1,700
- Cruising range
- 495 miles
Road tests
- 0-30 mph
- 2.8 sec
- 0-60 mph
- 6.7 sec
- 60-0 mph braking
- 141 ft
- Avoidance speed
- 53 mph
- Test status
- Test Completed
Dimensions
- Length
- 187 in
- Width
- 74 in
- Height
- 57 in
- Wheelbase
- 113 in
- Weight
- 4,030 lb
- Maximum load
- 985 lb
- Towing capacity
- 0 lb
Interior
- Seating
- 5 people
- Front head room
- 3 in
- Front leg room
- 44 in
- Rear head room
- 0.5 in
- Rear leg room
- 29 in
- Luggage
- 2+2+0
Owner feedback
- Comfort
- 3/5
- Driving
- 3/5
- Styling
- 4/5
- Value
- 1/5
Environmental impact
- Air pollution score
- 7/10
- Greenhouse gas score
- 5/10
- SmartWay
- No
Brand context
About Mercedes-Benz
Most Mercedes-Benzes give their owners industry-leading comfort and technology. The cost of that experience is an expensive base price with expensive options and below-average reliability. The brand produces a wide variety of vehicles for the U.S., including coupes, station wagons, sedans, convertibles, and even two-seat sports cars. Its two- and three-row SUVs that we’ve tested have powerful engines and interiors that are roomy and quiet. Generally, Mercedes-Benz fit and finish, inside and out, is exceptional and helps justify prices. Mercedes-Benz’s EVs range from compact to large three-row SUVs. Across the lineup, controls for the complex climate and infotainment systems aren’t as intuitive as we find in other luxury vehicles. Like most European luxury brands, used Mercedes-Benzes can have expensive out-of-warranty repairs, although Consumer Reports has found used models with above-average reliability.
Vehicle ID: 26198 First published: November 17, 2022 Updated: December 4, 2025
Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.
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