The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 stands as a testament to luxury and performance in the compact executive sedan category. Prospective buyers and enthusiasts alike often seek detailed information about what comes standard and what options were available for this model year. This article delves into the standard equipment and optional packages of the 2012 C250 Mercedes, providing a comprehensive overview for those interested in learning more about this vehicle.
Standard Comfort and Convenience Features
The C250 Mercedes 2012 was designed with a focus on driver and passenger comfort. Standard comfort and convenience features were plentiful, ensuring a pleasant driving experience. These included:
- Power Tilt/Sliding Sunroof: Enjoy the open air and natural light with the power tilt/sliding sunroof, complete with express open and close functionality.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Maintain optimal cabin temperature for both driver and passenger with the dual-zone automatic climate control system, featuring a dust filter for cleaner air.
- 8-Way Power Front Seats with Lumbar Support: Find your perfect driving position with 8-way power-adjustable front seats, including lumbar support for enhanced comfort on long journeys.
- Entertainment System: The standard entertainment system featured a CD/MP3/AM/FM/Weatherband radio, HD Radio for enhanced audio clarity, and Bluetooth Audio Streaming for wireless music playback. Auxiliary input and USB ports further expanded connectivity options.
- Bluetooth Interface: Stay connected safely with the integrated Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling.
- Central Controller with 5.8″ Display: Navigate vehicle functions and access entertainment options through the user-friendly central controller and 5.8″ display screen.
- Tilt & Telescoping Steering Column: Adjust the steering column for optimal driving ergonomics with the tilt and telescoping functionality.
- Multifunction Leather Steering Wheel: Control various vehicle functions directly from the leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel.
- 4.5″ Color Instrument Cluster Display: Access important vehicle information at a glance through the clear and informative 4.5″ color instrument cluster display.
- Practical Interior Amenities: Enjoy the convenience of front and rear cupholders, rain-sensing intermittent wipers, an integrated rearview mirror compass, auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, and an integrated garage door opener.
- Cruise Control & Power Features: Standard cruise control enhances driving ease on highways, while power windows with express up and down and automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & locator lighting add to the convenience.
- Trip Computer: Keep track of essential driving data with the integrated trip computer.
Performance and Handling Specifications
The 2012 C250 Mercedes was engineered to deliver a balanced driving experience, blending performance with refined handling. Key performance and handling features included:
- Engine Power: The C250 boasted a responsive 201 horsepower engine at 5,500 RPM, providing ample power for daily driving and more spirited maneuvers.
- Torque Delivery: With 229 lb-ft of torque available between 2,200 and 4,300 RPM, the C250 offered strong acceleration and responsive performance across a wide range of driving conditions.
- 7-Speed Automatic Transmission: Experience smooth and efficient gear changes with the 7-speed automatic transmission, optimizing both performance and fuel economy.
- Suspension System: The C250 featured a front suspension with a 3-link independent strut-type design with a stabilizer bar, and a rear multi-link independent suspension with a stabilizer bar, contributing to its balanced handling and comfortable ride.
- Chrome Outlet Exhaust: A stylish exhaust with a chrome outlet added a touch of visual appeal to the rear of the vehicle.
Safety and Security Systems
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2012 C250, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features as standard:
- ATTENTION ASSIST: This innovative system monitored driver behavior and alerted the driver if signs of drowsiness were detected, promoting safer driving.
- ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function: The ADAPTIVE BRAKE system enhanced braking performance and included a HOLD function for added convenience in stop-and-go traffic.
- LED Lighting: LED Daytime Running Lamps and LED Tail Lamps improved visibility and added a modern aesthetic to the vehicle’s lighting.
- Comprehensive Warranty and Assistance: New C250 models came with a 4-year/50,000 mile warranty and a 24-hour roadside assistance program for peace of mind.
- Robust Construction: The C250 featured a steel-reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones, designed to enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision.
- Advanced Airbag System: A comprehensive airbag system included 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.
- Active Safety Features: Active front head restraints, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System, Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) all contributed to enhanced safety and control.
- Child Safety and Security: LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children were included for secure child seat installation. An antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button provided enhanced security.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System: The tire pressure monitoring system alerted the driver to low tire pressure, contributing to safety and optimal fuel efficiency.
Optional Packages for the 2012 C250
Beyond the extensive standard equipment, Mercedes-Benz offered several option packages for the 2012 C250, allowing buyers to further customize their vehicles:
- Sport Sedan Package (No Charge): This package enhanced the sporty character of the C250 with a sport suspension, sport bodystyling, aluminum trim, and 17″ split 5-spoke alloy wheels with performance tires.
- Luxury Sedan Package (No Charge): For those prioritizing comfort, the Luxury Sedan Package offered a comfort suspension, comfort headrests, burl walnut wood trim, and 17″ split 5-spoke alloy wheels with all-season tires.
- Premium 1 Package ($2,500): This popular package 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.
- Lighting Package ($1,290): Upgrade the lighting with Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, a headlamp washing system, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist.
- Lane Tracking Package ($850): Enhance driver assistance with Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.
- Multimedia Package ($2,790): This package featured the COMAND system with hard-drive navigation, a larger 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.
- Full Leather Seating Package ($1,750): Upgrade to full leather upholstery and add power/memory functionality for the front passenger seat.
Stand-Alone and Special Order Options
In addition to packages, a range of stand-alone and special order options allowed for even greater personalization, including features like Mercedes-Benz mbrace™, various wood trim options, upgraded alloy wheels, PARKTRONIC with Parking Guidance, KEYLESS-GO, and more. Special order options such as the Dynamic Handling Package further tailored the driving experience.
Conclusion
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 offered a compelling blend of standard luxury, performance, and safety features. With a variety of optional packages and stand-alone upgrades, buyers could customize the C250 to perfectly suit their preferences and needs. Understanding the standard and optional equipment of the 2012 C250 Mercedes is crucial for anyone considering purchasing this model, ensuring they are fully informed about its capabilities and features.
