The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has long been a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment, and the 2022 model marks a significant leap forward. This fully redesigned iteration elevates the C-Class experience, blending cutting-edge technology, sophisticated comfort, and refined performance into a compelling package for drivers who demand more than just the ordinary. While it steps up from its entry-level beginnings, the 2022 C-Class positions itself firmly as a mid-weight luxury contender, offering an impressive array of features and capabilities.
This year’s C-Class sedan embraces a complete overhaul. While maintaining a familiar silhouette, the exterior styling is sleeker, hinting at the advancements within. The interior, however, is where the revolution truly takes place. Drawing inspiration from the flagship S-Class, the cabin is dominated by a striking, tablet-style touchscreen seamlessly integrated into the dashboard. Intricate details, such as ambient lighting woven into the air vents and aluminum-threaded wood trim, create an ambiance that punches well above its weight class, lending the C 300 an air of opulence typically found in vehicles with a much higher price tag.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a slightly more spacious cabin than its predecessor, making it a more practical choice for adult passengers compared to the smaller CLA. Front headroom remains generous, accommodating individuals up to 6-foot-2 comfortably. However, rear headroom and legroom are more modest, potentially posing a tighter fit for taller occupants in the back seats. For those prioritizing passenger space, exploring the E-Class or the upcoming redesigned GLC SUV might be worthwhile.
Currently, the C-Class is exclusively available in the C 300 trim. While some may find it less dynamically engaging than its BMW or Audi counterparts in its standard form, performance-oriented AMG models are anticipated to arrive soon. Nevertheless, the C 300 provides a driving experience that most will find enjoyable and comfortable for both daily commutes and longer journeys. True to Mercedes-Benz tradition, the C-Class is generously equipped with the latest technological advancements, encompassing both entertainment and safety features.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is poised to maintain its strong position in expert rankings. While those seeking ultimate driving thrills may await the AMG variants, the C 300 excels in delivering comfort and refinement. Alongside its traditional rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, consider also exploring the Lexus IS 300 and Genesis G70 as worthy competitors in this segment.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A Step Up in Luxury and Technology
Good: 7.9/10
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class marks a definitive advancement over its previous generation, excelling in nearly every aspect. Its potent and efficient engine, coupled with an intuitive technology interface, are standout features. While perhaps not revolutionizing its segment, the redesign firmly establishes the C-Class as a smart and sophisticated choice within the small luxury sedan category.
Rated by America’s best test team.
Performance: 8.5/10 – Smooth Power and Engaging Dynamics
The C 300’s new turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine is a standout performer. Producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain delivers ample power, while the mild-hybrid system refines the engine’s responsiveness, addressing any previous high-strung tendencies. The seamless nine-speed automatic transmission consistently finds the optimal gear, enhancing the driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph is achieved in a brisk 5.8 seconds, offering more than sufficient power for everyday driving needs.
Our test vehicle was equipped with the optional AMG Line sport package, which incorporates a sport suspension, upgraded brakes, and a more direct steering tune, among other enhancements. These additions contribute to the standard C-Class’s sharp and responsive driving dynamics. The C 300 exhibits impressive composure through corners, offering effortless and precise handling. The anticipation for the full AMG performance models is certainly high.
Comfort: 7.5/10 – Refinement with a Firm Edge
The AMG Line sport package may subtly compromise comfort, as our C 300 test vehicle exhibited a ride that, while not harsh, was firmer than some rivals in the small luxury class. The suspension conveyed a noticeable amount of road texture into the cabin, which, while beneficial for handling, detracted slightly from overall ride comfort. The AMG sport seats, while generally supportive, required some adjustment to find an ideal position and occasionally felt less than perfectly comfortable over longer drives. The non-perforated upholstery also contributed to some heat build-up during extended use.
Climate controls are fully integrated into the touchscreen interface, with a dedicated section of the screen. The system offers strong cooling capacity, although manual fan speed adjustments were sometimes preferred as the automatic setting occasionally felt inadequate. The cabin’s exceptional quietness is a significant comfort highlight, effectively isolating occupants from external noise and minimizing engine sounds at startup and idle.
Interior: 7.5/10 – Design Excellence Meets Functional Challenges
Mercedes-Benz consistently sets a high bar for interior design and material quality in the automotive industry. However, functional considerations temper the C-Class’s interior score. The low ride height can make entry and exit slightly less graceful. Finding the perfect driving position required ongoing adjustments, and the door-mounted seat controls are less intuitive than more traditional seat-mounted designs. Similarly, the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls represent a step back in user-friendliness compared to the previous generation’s thumb pads.
Passenger space is a notable strength. Offering more room than many competitors on paper, the cabin, while not cavernous, avoids feeling cramped.
Technology: 8.5/10 – Leading the Way in Automotive Tech
Mercedes-Benz continues to be a technology leader. The integrated navigation system stands out as one of the best available, rivaling the functionality and user experience of smartphone-based navigation apps. Its clear and precise directions are a boon for those who rely heavily on navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available for seamless smartphone integration. The larger touchscreen maximizes the smartphone projection experience, providing ample display area for icons and maps.
Complementing this is Mercedes-Benz’s advanced voice recognition system and the excellent Burmester audio system, delivering a premium auditory experience. The suite of advanced driver aids is comprehensive and functional, although the adaptive cruise control occasionally exhibited overly aggressive acceleration and braking. The 360-degree camera system is exceptional and invaluable for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Storage: 7.5/10 – Practical Trunk Space, Adequate Cabin Storage
The C 300 provides practical trunk space, and remote seat-folding buttons simplify expanding cargo capacity by folding the rear seats flat. Useful underfloor storage adds further versatility. Shrouded trunk hinges prevent damage to luggage or groceries, and the total trunk volume of 12.6 cubic feet is competitive for the segment.
Cabin storage for smaller items includes a reasonably sized center armrest with split-opening doors, adaptable cupholders, and average-sized door pockets. While functional, cabin storage is not particularly innovative beyond the adaptable cupholders.
For families, the C-Class offers easily accessible Isofix anchor and tether points for car seats. While not as effortlessly accessible as a minivan or SUV, car seat installation and access are typical for this vehicle class.
Fuel Economy: 8/10 – Impressive Efficiency for its Class
Thanks to its 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the C 300 achieves a respectable EPA-estimated 29 mpg in combined driving (25 city/35 highway). Our own testing yielded an average of 30.7 mpg over a 115-mile evaluation loop, confirming the real-world achievability of these figures. Considering the engine’s power output, this level of fuel efficiency is genuinely impressive.
Value: 8/10 – Premium Experience Justifies the Price
Mercedes-Benz vehicles typically command a higher price than competitors, but the base C 300 maintains a reasonable gap. The C-Class delivers a value proposition that aligns with its price. It presents itself with the sophistication and luxury of a larger E-Class, offering a level of refinement that belies its compact dimensions. Material quality, design execution, panel fit, and control operation all surpass segment standards. Mercedes-Benz’s four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties are standard for the class, although complimentary maintenance is not included, unlike some rivals.
Wildcard: 8/10 – A Joyful Drive with Surprising Luxury
The new C-Class is surprisingly enjoyable to drive, especially with the subtle enhancements of the optional AMG Line package. The new mild-hybrid powertrain is a highlight, balancing performance and efficiency effectively. Mercedes-Benz deserves credit for its advancements in this area. The interior design is undeniably modern, and Mercedes continues to excel at integrating a high degree of luxury into a compact vehicle. While the exterior design may not be overtly exciting, its understated elegance may appeal to those seeking a more subtle presence.
Which Mercedes Benz C Class 2022 Model is Recommended?
For an optimal balance of features and value, the Exclusive trim level is highly recommended. It builds upon the base Premium trim with desirable upgrades and crucially unlocks access to the optional Driver Assistance package, which includes adaptive cruise control and other essential driver-assistance technologies. Adding the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is also advisable for enhanced traction in regions experiencing snowy or icy conditions.
Compare 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class trim levels
2022 Mercedes Benz C Class Models Available
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan initially offers two model configurations: C 300 and C 300 4Matic. Both are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The sole distinction between these models is the drivetrain: the C 300 is rear-wheel-drive, while the C 300 4Matic features all-wheel-drive.
Unlike previous C-Class generations, the 2022 C 300 adopts a streamlined trim level structure, moving away from extensive individual options and packages. The available trim levels are Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle.
Premium: The base C 300 Premium includes:
- 18-inch wheels
- Power-folding mirrors
- Sunroof
- Hands-free power trunklid
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Digital instrument panel
- Simulated leather upholstery (MB-Tex)
- Heated front seats
- Ambient interior lighting
- 11.9-inch touchscreen
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Standard driver-assistance features:
- Forward collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitor
- Adaptive high-beam assist
- Drowsy driver monitor
- Safe-exit system
- Emergency stop assist
Exclusive: The Exclusive trim adds:
- Burmester premium audio system
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Streaming music services
- Automated parking system
- 360-degree camera system
Pinnacle: The top-tier Pinnacle trim includes Exclusive features plus:
- Integrated navigation system
- Augmented reality navigation overlay
- Head-up display
Optional features across trims include:
- Driver Assistance package (Exclusive and Pinnacle)
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure mitigation
- Lane keeping system
- Blind-spot intervention
- Cross-traffic alert
- Evasive steering assist
- Automated parking system
- Panoramic sunroof
- Upgraded digital light headlights
- Heated steering wheel
- Ventilated front seats
- Leather upholstery
- Additional USB ports
- Adaptive headlights
- Rear passenger side airbags
- Dashcam (Pinnacle only)
Edmunds Latest Mercedes-Benz C-Class News
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