The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a range of trims, each with its own set of standard and optional features. Among these, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 stands out as a sporty and well-equipped option. This model provides a significant step up in performance and standard features compared to the base C-Class trims. Let’s delve into what makes the C350 a compelling choice in the 2012 C-Class lineup.
The foundational C-Class models, the C250 and C300, come equipped with a solid array of features right from the start. These include 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, and LED daytime running lights for enhanced visibility. Convenience features such as automatic wipers, a sunroof for an open cabin feel, and cruise control for relaxed highway driving are also standard. Inside, dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort, while eight-way power front seats with adjustable lumbar support, upholstered in durable MB-Tex vinyl, offer a comfortable driving position. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel adds to driving ergonomics, and auto-dimming interior and driver-side mirrors enhance safety. For connectivity and entertainment, Bluetooth for phone and audio, a sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack, USB audio jack, and HD radio are included. The C300 4Matic distinguishes itself by adding all-wheel drive and a V6 engine, providing enhanced traction and power.
Within the sedan versions of the C250 and C300, Mercedes-Benz further differentiates with Luxury and Sport sub-trims. These variations are not merely cosmetic; they include changes to wheel design, suspension tuning, and styling details. The steering wheel design and interior trim type also differ, allowing buyers to choose a more comfort-oriented or sport-focused aesthetic. Notably, when equipped with 4Matic all-wheel drive, the Luxury trim incorporates a comfort-tuned suspension, prioritizing ride quality. Stepping up to the Premium 1 package adds a significant layer of comfort and convenience, featuring four-way adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, heated front seats for colder climates, driver memory functions to recall preferred settings, and a power-adjustable steering wheel. Practicality is enhanced with split-folding rear seats, and audiophiles will appreciate the Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface (also available as a standalone option).
Moving to the coupe body style, the C250 gains some features that are optional on the sedan, including a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light, split-folding rear seats for increased cargo versatility, additional driver seat adjustments for optimal comfort, driver memory functions, and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The coupe’s Premium 1 package mirrors the sedan’s, adding heated seats and the Harman Kardon system with satellite radio and iPod interface.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 sedan is exclusively offered in Sport guise. This immediately signals its enhanced performance intent. It comes standard with a more powerful V6 engine, delivering a more exhilarating driving experience compared to the C250 and C300. Importantly, the Premium 1 package, which is optional on lower trims, is standard on the C350, ensuring a high level of features from the outset. The C350 coupe further adds a panoramic sunroof as standard equipment, enhancing the sporty and luxurious feel.
For those seeking ultimate performance, the C63 AMG sits at the top of the C-Class range. While sharing similar comfort and convenience features with the C350, the C63 AMG is distinguished by its performance-focused upgrades. These include larger 18-inch wheels paired with high-performance tires for superior grip, an adaptive sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling, and upgraded brakes to match the increased power. Sport seats hold occupants firmly in place during spirited driving, and more aggressive styling cues and unique interior trim differentiate it visually.
A wide array of optional packages and stand-alone options allows for further customization of the 2012 C-Class. The COMAND package upgrades the infotainment system with a larger central screen, a navigation system for route guidance, real-time traffic updates, voice controls for hands-free operation, digital music storage, and a single-CD player (a six-CD changer is also optional). The Lighting package enhances nighttime visibility with adaptive bi-xenon headlights featuring washers and automatic high beams. Safety is further enhanced by the Lane Tracking package, which includes a blind-spot warning system and a lane-departure warning system. Individual options include a rearview camera for easier parking, Mercedes-Benz mbrace emergency telematics for added security, a panoramic sunroof for the sedan, a power rear sunshade for rear passenger comfort, keyless ignition/entry for convenience, and the Parktronic advanced parking sensor system for stress-free maneuvering in tight spaces.
Excluding the C63 AMG, all other C-Class models can be equipped with the Full Leather Seating package. This elevates the interior ambiance with extended leather trim, adds further passenger seat adjustments for personalized comfort, and includes passenger seat memory functions.
For C63 AMG enthusiasts seeking even greater performance, the AMG Development package boosts horsepower by 30, increases the top speed, adds distinctive red brake calipers, and includes a carbon-fiber trunk lid spoiler. A limited-slip differential is also available to improve traction during hard acceleration and cornering.
At the pinnacle of performance within the coupe range is the C63 AMG Black Series. This model takes performance to an extreme with even more power, an adjustable coil-over sport suspension for track-ready handling, high-performance composite brakes for exceptional stopping power, extra engine cooling to withstand demanding driving, a rear axle differential lock for maximum traction, a wider track and aerodynamic body modifications for enhanced stability, special 19-inch wheels, a rear diffuser, a two-seat interior configuration, sport seats, microfiber upholstery and steering wheel trim, and unique interior design elements. Further track-focused options for the Black Series include the AMG Track package with ultra-high-performance tires and an active cooling unit for the rear axle, and the AMG Aerodynamics package with added exterior winglets and an adjustable carbon-fiber rear spoiler for optimized downforce.
In conclusion, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 offers a compelling blend of sportiness and luxury within the C-Class range. With its standard V6 engine and generous equipment, including the Premium 1 package, it provides a significant step up from the base models, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a more engaging and feature-rich driving experience in a compact luxury car.
