Review: 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC Sedan

 

Class leading luxury and comfort with sportiness to satisfy discerning drivers.

Text and photos by Don Halliwell

This week I was treated to some time in the recently restyled 2017 Mercedes-Benz C 300 sedan. Naturally, I was inspired enough to collect my thoughts and snap a few photos, which I can’t wait to share with you in the review below.

As you’d expect from the long-time segment leader in luxury, the interior is an ergonomic wonderland. Starting with top-grain leather adorned bucket seats, that hug you just so, the cabin is a treat for all passengers.

The driver is treated to a few extra adjustments, memory settings and an optional heated steering wheel, which proved quite enjoyable on the subzero days I spent with it. All switchgear gets an up-market aluminum treatment with a nice tactile response. A large display sits prominently in the center of the dash, and the as-tested model was chock-full of useful gadgetry and features. The touch-pad and knob combo that governs the infotainment system is intuitive, and simple to pick up. Perhaps my favourite switch of all, though, sits directly to the left of that and toggles between drive modes.

The driving experience is fantastic and can be adjusted suit your mood. Enviro-conscious drivers can sip fuel using the economy setting, while those with a lead-foot can get a little squirrely in Sport + mode. You can opt for these factory settings, which also include Comfort, or store an individual combination of your own creation.

In any setting, the 241hp 4-cylinder engine will put a smile on your face. While the 4MATIC AWD system it’s mated to will keep you in control and able to take on virtually any condition you’ll face on our Canadian roads. The C-Class behaves very well whether you’re in town, stop-and-go, or flying down the freeway.

Exterior styling is highly subjective matter, but I find the C-Class to be among the most distinguished luxury sedans in its category. There may be more aggressive or edgy looks on the market, but the C-Class is clearly modern and the most refined all around. The oversized grille and gaping intakes are a throwback to Benz-family classics.

The profile and clever leading lines from the LED headlights over the fender and along the door panels give it a coach-like appearance. Out back C-Class owners are fortunate; design queues are clearly borrowed from its larger stable mate and industry benchmark the S-Class. At the end of the day the Mercedes-Benz C-Class will certainly turn heads and announce your arrival in style with its bold looks, which is exactly what buyers in this category are looking for.

 

In a crowded segment, with some of the best manufacturers in the industry vying for market share, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a standout hit. Those looking to make a visual statement, ride in ultimate luxury and enjoy the drive while they’re at it should explore the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.