The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 marked a significant step in the evolution of the C-Class, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. This model year introduced a range of enhancements and features that solidified its position as a leading contender in the competitive luxury sedan market. Let’s delve into the standard equipment, performance metrics, safety features, and available options for the 2015 C300, C300 4MATIC, and C400 4MATIC models, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective buyers and automotive enthusiasts.
Comfort and Convenience Features
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 was designed with a focus on providing a comfortable and convenient driving experience. Standard comfort and convenience features across the C300, C300 4MATIC, and C400 4MATIC models included dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring optimal cabin temperature for both the driver and passenger. Power front seats with driver memory allowed for personalized seating positions, enhancing driver comfort on every journey.
For in-car entertainment and connectivity, the C300 models came equipped with an audio system featuring a single-disc CD player, a USB port with iPod interface, Bluetooth audio streaming, and HD Radio. Bluetooth interface for hands-free phone use further enhanced convenience and safety by enabling drivers to make calls without taking their hands off the wheel. The central controller with a 7-inch high-mounted display served as the command center for various vehicle functions, while the multifunction leather steering wheel provided easy access to controls.
The color instrument cluster display offered clear and concise vehicle information, and front and rear cupholders added practicality for everyday use. A power tilt and telescoping steering column allowed drivers to adjust the steering wheel for optimal ergonomics. Electronic cruise control, power windows with express up and down, and automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting further enhanced the driving experience. Additional standard features included a trip computer, auto-dimming driver and rearview mirror, power folding mirrors, an integrated garage door opener, and intermittent wipers with a rain sensor. Split-folding rear seats added versatility for cargo management, and the innovative Touchpad offered intuitive control of the infotainment system. KEYLESS-START and AGILITY SELECT, which allows drivers to choose between different driving modes, were also standard, emphasizing the blend of technology and driver-focused design in the 2015 C300. Heated front seats were available as an optional upgrade for C300 and C300 4MATIC, but came as standard on the C400 4MATIC, along with SIRIUS Satellite Radio and the Burmester Premium Sound system, highlighting the more luxurious standard specification of the C400 model. LED Headlights and KEYLESS-GO were also optional across the range, allowing buyers to further customize their vehicles.
Performance and Handling
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 offered a compelling balance of performance and efficiency. The C300 and C300 4MATIC models were powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque between 1,300-4,000 rpm. This engine provided brisk acceleration and responsive performance for daily driving. The C400 4MATIC, on the other hand, boasted a more powerful 3.0-liter V6 bi-turbo engine, producing 329 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 354 lb-ft of torque between 1,600-4,000 rpm, offering enhanced performance and a more dynamic driving experience.
All models featured a 7-speed driver-adaptive automatic transmission with Touch Shift, allowing for smooth and efficient gear changes. The ECO Start/Stop system, standard across the range, improved fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle came to a stop and restarting it when the brake pedal was released. The top speed for all models was electronically limited to 130 mph.
In terms of handling, all 2015 C300 models featured a 4-link front suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension, engineered to provide a comfortable yet controlled ride. The C300 and C300 4MATIC utilized single-piston floating front brakes, while the C400 4MATIC was upgraded with four-piston fixed caliper front brakes for enhanced stopping power, befitting its higher performance output. The C300 came with rear-wheel drive, while the C300 4MATIC and C400 4MATIC models were equipped with the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Dual exhaust with two chrome outlets was standard across all models, adding to the sporty aesthetic. The C300 and C300 4MATIC models were fitted with 225/50 R17 all-season front tires and 245/45 R17 all-season rear tires, while the C400 4MATIC featured slightly larger 225/45 R18 all-season front tires and 245/40 R18 all-season rear tires, reflecting the different performance characteristics and trim levels.
Safety and Security Features
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2015 C300, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features. Standard safety features included a New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty, a 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program, and the Mercedes-Benz Maintenance System, providing peace of mind for owners. The high-strength steel reinforced cabin with front and rear crumple zones was designed to enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision.
The supplemental restraint system included an occupant sensor, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and dual-stage belt force limiters, front dual-stage airbags, combination thorax/pelvis side airbags for the driver and front passenger, front and rear side window airbags, and a driver knee airbag. ISOFIX anchor and tether system for child seats further underscored the family-friendly nature of the C300. Active safety systems included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), all working in concert to help maintain control in challenging driving situations.
ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness monitor was standard, alerting drivers if they showed signs of fatigue. Security features included an anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System helped maintain optimal tire inflation for safety and efficiency, and PRE-SAFE, Mercedes-Benz’s anticipatory safety system, could prepare the vehicle for an impending collision. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) PLUS further enhanced safety by providing visual and audible warnings of potential collisions and initiating autonomous emergency braking if necessary.
Options and Packages
To cater to individual preferences, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 offered a wide array of paint, upholstery, and trim options, as well as several packages to enhance comfort, technology, and performance.
Paint Options: Standard paint options at no additional cost included Black and Polar White. Metallic paint options, available for a premium, included Dakota Brown, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Lunar Blue, Obsidian Black, and Diamond Silver. The designo Diamond White metallic paint was a premium option for those seeking a more exclusive finish.
Upholstery Options: The standard upholstery was Black MB-Tex, with Silk Beige/Black MB-Tex and Ash Grey/Black MB-Tex also available at no extra cost. Leather upholstery options, including Black Leather, Silk Beige/Black Leather, Ash Grey/Black Leather, Silk Beige/Espresso Leather, and Cranberry Red/Black Leather, were available as part of the Interior Package.
Trim Options: Aluminum/High-Gloss Black trim was standard. Open-Pore Black Ash Wood trim was optional for C300 and C300 4MATIC and standard for C400 4MATIC. Burl Walnut Wood and Linden Wood trims were also available as options.
Package Highlights:
- Premium Package: Included LED Headlights, SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio, Burmester Premium Sound system, Heated Front Seats, and KEYLESS-GO. Standard on C400 4MATIC and optional for C300 and C300 4MATIC.
- Luxury Package: (C300 and C300 4MATIC only) Featured 17″ Split 5-Spoke Wheels, Comfort Suspension, Luxury Grill with ‘Standing Star’, Burl Walnut Trim or Brown Fineline Trim, and Dash with MB-Tex.
- Lighting Package: Added Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Dynamic LED Headlamps.
- Multimedia Package: Included COMAND System with Navigation, 3D Map Views, 8.4″ High Resolution LCD Screen, and more, along with Rearview Camera and Navigation Map Updates.
- Sport Package: (C300 and C300 4MATIC only, Standard on C400 4MATIC) Featured AMG wheels, Sports Suspension, AMG Bodystyling, Sport Seats, and more for a sportier appearance and driving dynamics.
- AIR BALANCE Package: Added Fragrance, Ionization, and Filtration to the cabin air.
- AIRMATIC Package: Included AGILITY SELECT Adjustable Suspension and AIRMATIC Air Suspension for enhanced ride comfort and handling.
- Interior Package: Featured Leather Upholstery, Ventilated Seats, Ambient Lighting, Power Passenger Seat with Memory, and Illuminated Door Sills.
- Driver Assistance Package: Offered advanced driver aids like DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and more.
- Hands-Free Access Package: Included Hands-Free Trunk Access and Electronic Trunk Closer.
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300, especially in its C300 and C300 4MATIC variants, presented a compelling entry point into the luxury sedan segment, offering a balanced combination of comfort, performance, safety, and technology. The C400 4MATIC further elevated the performance and luxury quotient. With a range of optional packages and customization possibilities, the 2015 C300 allowed buyers to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences, making it a highly desirable choice in the used luxury car market.
