The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 300 stands as a testament to luxury and performance, offering a compelling blend of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics. For those considering a pre-owned luxury sedan, understanding the standard equipment and available options of the 2012 C 300 is crucial. This article delves into the comprehensive list of features that came standard with this model, along with the enticing packages and standalone options that allowed drivers to personalize their vehicles.
The 2012 C 300 was designed with driver and passenger comfort in mind. Standard comfort and convenience features started with a power tilt/sliding sunroof, creating an open and airy cabin environment. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensured personalized temperature settings for both front occupants, while the dust filter maintained cabin air quality. Eight-way power front seats with lumbar support provided exceptional adjustability for optimal driving posture on longer journeys. Entertainment and connectivity were well-covered with a CD/MP3/AM/FM/Weatherband radio, HD Radio, and Bluetooth audio streaming. The integrated sound system included auxiliary input and a USB port for diverse media sources. Hands-free calling was facilitated through the Bluetooth interface, managed via a central controller with a 5.8″ display, putting essential functions at the driver’s fingertips.
Steering was made effortless and adaptable with a tilt & telescoping steering column and a multifunction leather steering wheel, putting audio and cruise controls within easy reach. A 4.5″ color instrument cluster display presented vital vehicle information clearly and concisely. Practicality was enhanced with front and rear cupholders, rain-sensing intermittent wipers for automated windshield clearing, and an integrated rearview mirror compass for directional assistance. Auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors increased nighttime driving safety by reducing glare, and an integrated garage door opener added a touch of home convenience. Cruise control, a heated windshield washer reservoir for cold climates, and power windows with express up and down further enhanced the daily driving experience. Automatic headlamps with a twilight sensor and locator lighting provided automated illumination, and a trip computer offered essential driving data.
Performance in the 2012 C 300 was delivered by a responsive engine producing 228 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 221 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 RPM. This power was channeled through a smooth 7-speed automatic transmission, providing a balance of efficiency and engaging driving dynamics. The C 300’s handling was refined by a front suspension featuring a 3-link independent strut-type system with a stabilizer bar, and a rear multi-link independent suspension with a stabilizer bar, ensuring a comfortable yet controlled ride. A dual exhaust system with chrome outlets added a touch of sporty flair to the vehicle’s aesthetics.
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2012 C 300, equipping it with a suite of standard safety and security features. ATTENTION ASSIST monitored driver behavior for signs of drowsiness, while ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function provided enhanced braking support in various driving situations. LED Daytime Running Lamps and LED Tail Lamps improved visibility, increasing safety on the road. The vehicle was backed by a new vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty and a 24-hour roadside assistance program for added peace of mind. A steel-reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones, along with front & rear outboard seatbelts with pre-tensioners & force limiters, formed the foundation of occupant protection. Dual two-stage front airbags, side airbags mounted in the front seat backrests, head protection curtains, dual front pelvic airbags, and a driver’s side knee airbag provided comprehensive airbag coverage. Active front head restraints further mitigated whiplash risk in rear-end collisions. 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System, Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) provided advanced control in challenging driving conditions. Child safety was addressed with LATCH-lower anchors and tethers. An antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button offered security features to protect against theft, and a tire pressure monitoring system kept drivers informed of tire conditions.
For buyers seeking further customization, Mercedes-Benz offered several option packages for the 2012 C 300. The Sport Sedan Package (no charge) included a sport suspension, sport bodystyling, aluminum trim, and 17″ split 5-spoke alloy wheels, appealing to drivers wanting a more dynamic aesthetic and driving feel. The Luxury Sedan Package (no charge) prioritized comfort with a comfort suspension, comfort headrests, burl walnut wood trim, and 17″ split 5-spoke alloy wheels. The Premium 1 Package ($2,500) added heated front seats, SIRIUS® satellite radio, iPod/MP3 Media Interface, a harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system, driver’s seat memory and power steering column, split-folding rear seats, and 4-way power lumbar support for the driver. The Lighting Package ($1,290) enhanced visibility with Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, a headlamp washing system, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist. The Lane Tracking Package ($850) incorporated Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist for enhanced driver awareness. The Multimedia Package ($2,790) upgraded infotainment with a COMAND system including hard-drive navigation, a 7-inch high-resolution LCD color display, enhanced voice control, SIRIUS® real-time traffic service, in-dash DVD/CD and SD card slot, Gracenote® media database, 10GB hard-drive with Music Register, and a rearview camera. The Full Leather Seating Package ($1,750) offered leather upholstery and a power/memory front passenger seat.
Standalone options allowed for even finer personalization, including Mercedes-Benz mbrace™ ($660), iPod®/MP3 Media Interface ($310), SIRIUS® satellite radio ($460), heated front seats ($750), burl walnut wood trim ($325), 18″ AMG alloy wheels in twin 5-spoke or 7-spoke designs ($1,040 each), PARKTRONIC w/ Parking Guidance ($970), KEYLESS-GO ($650), rear side airbags ($420), and a power tilt/sliding panorama sunroof ($1,090). Special order options included Obsidian Black paint ($720) and a power rear window sunshade ($440). A wide palette of paint and upholstery choices were available, ranging from classic Black and Arctic White to more distinctive shades like Lunar Blue and Sapphire Grey, and upholstery in MB-Tex or Leather in various colors and combinations, allowing buyers to tailor their 2012 C 300 to their exact preferences.
In conclusion, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 300 provided a luxurious and well-equipped entry into the luxury sedan market. Its comprehensive list of standard features, combined with a wide array of optional packages and standalone upgrades, ensured that buyers could find a C 300 that met their specific needs and desires. For anyone considering a used luxury vehicle, the 2012 C 300 remains a compelling option, offering a blend of German engineering, sophisticated features, and renowned Mercedes-Benz quality.
