The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC stands as a compelling option in the luxury sedan market, especially for those seeking all-weather capability combined with renowned Mercedes-Benz refinement. Available in various trim levels and offering a plethora of optional packages and standalone features, the 2016 C-Class 4MATIC caters to a wide range of preferences and needs. This article delves into the specifics of this model, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts.
Luxury and Sport Trims: Tailoring Your C-Class 4MATIC
Mercedes-Benz offered the 2016 C-Class sedan in distinct Luxury and Sport sub-trims, allowing drivers to select a style that best matched their taste. These sub-trims weren’t merely cosmetic; they incorporated differences in wheel designs, suspension tuning, and subtle interior and exterior styling cues. For instance, grille patterns and steering wheel designs varied between the Luxury and Sport lines, providing a personalized touch right from the outset.
Standard Features of the C300 4MATIC: A Foundation of Luxury
The C300 4MATIC served as the entry point to the all-wheel-drive C-Class range, yet it was far from basic. Standard features were generous, reflecting its luxury positioning. Exterior highlights included 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers for convenience, and power-folding side mirrors with a driver-side auto-dimming function, enhancing both practicality and sophistication.
Inside, the C300 4MATIC prioritized comfort and technology. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensured personalized temperature settings for driver and passenger, while a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and auto-dimming rearview mirror added to the premium feel. 10-way power front seats with 4-way lumbar support and driver memory settings ensured optimal driving position and comfort. The cabin was upholstered in durable and elegant synthetic leather (“MB-Tex”), and the 40/20/40-split folding rear seatbacks offered versatility for cargo and passenger configurations.
Technologically, the C300 4MATIC came equipped with the COMAND infotainment system, centered around a 7-inch display screen controlled via a console-mounted dial and touchpad interface. Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming, a CD player, dual USB ports, an SD card reader, and HD radio provided a comprehensive suite of entertainment and connectivity features.
The standard touchpad interface in the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers supplementary control for the COMAND system, although its usability can be somewhat sensitive in everyday use.
Optional Packages: Elevating the 2016 C-Class 4MATIC Experience
Mercedes-Benz provided a wide array of optional packages for the 2016 C-Class 4MATIC, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles extensively.
- Premium 1 Package: This popular package added keyless entry and ignition for enhanced convenience and satellite radio for expanded entertainment options.
- Premium 2 Package: Building upon Premium 1, this package included advanced LED headlights and taillights for improved visibility and a modern aesthetic, alongside a premium 13-speaker Burmester sound system for audiophile-quality audio.
- Interior Package: This package focused on cabin luxury, introducing leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting to set the mood, and heated and ventilated front seats for all-weather comfort. Power adjustments and memory settings were also added for the front passenger seat.
- Multimedia Package: For tech enthusiasts, the Multimedia package upgraded the infotainment system with a larger 8.4-inch display screen, a navigation system for turn-by-turn directions, voice controls for hands-free operation, and a rearview camera for enhanced safety during parking maneuvers.
- Lighting Package: Further enhancing visibility, the Lighting package featured adaptive LED headlights with automatic high-beam control, optimizing light distribution for various driving conditions.
- Air Balance Package: This unique package added filtered and scented cabin air, creating a more pleasant and refined in-car environment.
- Night Package: Exclusively for the Sport sub-trim, the Night package introduced distinctive black-and-silver wheels and gloss-black exterior accents for a more aggressive and sporty appearance.
- Airmatic Package: For superior ride comfort and handling, the Airmatic package included an adjustable air suspension system.
- Driver Assistance Package: This comprehensive safety suite incorporated adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure intervention, and partial autonomous steering to help maintain lane position. It also featured an enhanced collision mitigation system with pedestrian detection and both front and rear impact sensors.
- Parking Assist Package: Making parking easier, this package added front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view parking camera system.
AMG Performance: C 450 AMG 4MATIC and AMG C 63
For those seeking high performance, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC offered AMG variants.
- C 450 AMG 4MATIC: Available exclusively in the Sport sub-trim, the C 450 AMG 4MATIC delivered enhanced performance with a V6 engine, 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes and steering, and an adaptive sport-tuned suspension featuring a wider front track for improved handling. AMG-themed interior styling, sport front seat bolstering, and the contents of the Premium 1 package were also standard.
- AMG C 63: Stepping up in performance, the rear-wheel-drive AMG C 63 sedan boasted a powerful V8 engine, wider 18-inch wheels, a mechanical limited-slip differential for enhanced traction, and performance software including a lap timer.
- AMG C 63 S: The AMG C 63 S further amplified performance with 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, larger front brakes, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, active engine mounts, and subtle interior trim enhancements. The Premium 2 package remained optional for the C 63 trims, along with other packages mentioned earlier.
AMG-specific options included a dual-mode sport exhaust, carbon-fiber exterior and interior trim, race-inspired front sport seats, and two-tone leather upholstery. The C 63 S was also eligible for upgraded carbon-ceramic brakes for ultimate stopping power.
Standalone Options for Further Personalization
Beyond packages, a range of standalone options allowed for even greater customization of the 2016 C-Class 4MATIC. These included a panoramic sunroof, front and rear parking sensors (also available in packages), automatic parking assist, a heated steering wheel for cold climates, a head-up display projecting driving information onto the windshield, a power rear window sunshade, manual rear side window sunshades, and a convenient power-closing trunk.
Conclusion: The Versatile 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC presented a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability. With its range of trims, extensive optional packages, and standalone features, it offered a high degree of personalization to meet diverse driver needs and preferences within the luxury sedan segment. Whether prioritizing comfort, technology, sporty aesthetics, or high-performance AMG driving dynamics, the 2016 C-Class 4MATIC provided a sophisticated and versatile option.
