The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class stands as a testament to luxury and performance in the compact sedan segment. This model year offered a variety of choices, primarily the C300 and C350, alongside the high-performance C63 AMG. While the C300 and C350 shared the same engine family and available 4Matic all-wheel drive, they catered to different preferences with distinctions in exterior styling, interior appointments, suspension tuning, front seat design, and standard transmissions.
Both 2011 C300 models came generously equipped. Standard features included practical 17-inch wheels – albeit with different designs depending on the trim – a sunroof to brighten the cabin, automatic headlights, and cruise control for comfortable journeys. Inside, dual-zone automatic climate control ensured personalized comfort, while a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and eight-way power front seats offered adaptable driving positions. Vinyl upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, and an eight-speaker stereo system with CD player, auxiliary input, and a 5-inch pop-up display formed the base infotainment setup.
For those seeking enhanced luxury, the Premium I package significantly upgraded the C300. This popular option added auto-dimming mirrors for enhanced visibility, a 10-way power driver seat with power lumbar support and memory functions, and a power-adjustable steering wheel for optimal driving posture. Convenience features like automatic wipers, heated front seats for colder climates, satellite radio, a power rear sunshade for rear passenger comfort, and a practical split-folding rear seat were also included. Furthermore, the lighting package enhanced visibility and aesthetics with active xenon headlights featuring washers, LED running lights (standard on the Sport version), and distinctive LED taillights.
Stepping up to the C350 Sport essentially provided a C300 Sport equipped with the Premium I package as standard. The key differentiator was a more powerful V6 engine, offering increased performance, and unique black bird’s-eye maple wood trim for a sportier interior ambiance.
At the pinnacle of the 2011 C-Class range was the C63 AMG. This model took performance to another level, building on the C350 Sport’s features but incorporating a potent V8 engine. Performance enhancements included a firmer suspension for sharper handling, larger brakes for enhanced stopping power, and larger 18-inch wheels. AMG-specific interior and exterior styling cues, leather AMG sport seats, and aluminum paddle shifters further emphasized its performance pedigree.
Several optional packages allowed further customization. The Multimedia package introduced the COMAND electronics interface, a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic updates, a six-CD changer, an iPod interface, 6GB of digital music storage, and an upgraded, larger pop-up display screen. For the C63 AMG, the AMG Seating package added front memory seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and upgraded leather upholstery. For ultimate performance enthusiasts, the AMG Development package for the C63 boosted horsepower by 30, added upgraded brakes, a limited-slip differential, a track-calibrated suspension, a higher top speed, and a leather/faux suede steering wheel.
A new prepaid maintenance option for 2011 (excluding the C63) covered standard maintenance for 3 years or 30,000 miles. Stand-alone options across the range included stylish 18-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof (excluding C63), a rearview camera (requiring the Multimedia package), luxurious leather upholstery, heated front seats, keyless ignition/entry, satellite radio, an iPod interface, and a premium Harman Kardon surround-sound stereo system. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offered a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and customization, making it a desirable choice in its class.
