The 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz continues the legacy of the C-Class as a benchmark for luxury and performance in the compact sedan segment. This model year offers a compelling blend of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics, making it a sought-after vehicle for those who appreciate German engineering and sophisticated design. Let’s delve into the standard equipment and available options that defined the 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz.
Standard Comfort and Convenience Features of the 2012 C300
The 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz is equipped with a range of standard comfort and convenience features designed to enhance the driving and passenger experience. From climate control to advanced audio systems, the C300 prioritizes occupant well-being and ease of use.
- Power Tilt/Sliding Sunroof: Enjoy the open air with the touch of a button thanks to the power tilt/sliding sunroof, featuring express open and close functionality for added convenience.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Maintain optimal cabin temperature for both driver and passenger with the dual-zone automatic climate control system, complete with a dust filter to ensure clean and fresh air circulation.
- 8-Way Power Front Seats with Lumbar Support: Find your perfect driving position with 8-way power-adjustable front seats, including lumbar support to reduce fatigue on longer journeys.
- Comprehensive Audio System: Stay entertained with a versatile audio system including CD player, MP3 compatibility, AM/FM radio, and Weatherband radio. HD Radio provides enhanced digital audio quality for compatible stations.
- Bluetooth Audio Streaming: Seamlessly stream your favorite music wirelessly from compatible devices via Bluetooth audio streaming.
- Sound System with Auxiliary Input and USB Port: Connect external audio devices through the auxiliary input or utilize the USB port for media playback and device charging.
- Bluetooth Interface for Hands-Free Calling: Make and receive calls safely and legally with the integrated Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling.
- Central Controller with 5.8″ Display: Manage vehicle functions and access information through the central controller and viewable on a 5.8″ display.
- Tilt & Telescoping Steering Column: Adjust the steering wheel to your preferred position with the tilt and telescoping steering column, ensuring optimal comfort and control.
- Multifunction Leather Steering Wheel: Enjoy the premium feel of a leather-wrapped steering wheel equipped with multifunction controls for audio, phone, and cruise control.
- 4.5″ Color Instrument Cluster Display: Access vital vehicle information and settings through a clear and concise 4.5″ color instrument cluster display.
- Front and Rear Cupholders: Conveniently placed cupholders in both the front and rear of the cabin accommodate beverages for all occupants.
- Rain Sensing Intermittent Wipers: Automatic rain sensing wipers adjust wiper speed based on rainfall intensity, ensuring optimal visibility in inclement weather.
- Integrated Rear View Mirror Compass: Stay oriented with the integrated compass conveniently located in the rearview mirror.
- Auto Dimming Side and Rearview Mirrors: Reduce glare from trailing vehicles at night with auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, enhancing nighttime driving safety.
- Integrated Garage Door Opener: Program and operate your garage door opener directly from the vehicle with the integrated system.
- Cruise Control: Maintain a set speed effortlessly on highways and long drives using the cruise control system.
- Heated Windshield Washer Reservoir: Ensure clear visibility in cold climates with a heated windshield washer reservoir that helps prevent freezing.
- Power Windows with Express Up and Down: Operate windows quickly and conveniently with power windows featuring express up and down functionality.
- Automatic Headlamps with Twilight Sensor & Locator Lighting: Automatic headlamps activate based on ambient light conditions, while locator lighting helps guide you to your vehicle in low-light situations.
- Trip Computer: Monitor essential driving data such as fuel economy, trip distance, and more with the integrated trip computer.
2012 C300 Performance and Handling Characteristics
The 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz delivers a balanced driving experience, blending responsive performance with refined handling. Its powertrain and chassis are engineered to provide both engaging driving dynamics and comfortable cruising.
- 228 Horsepower Engine: The C300’s engine produces 228 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, providing ample power for confident acceleration and highway merging.
- 221 lb-ft of Torque: With 221 lb-ft of torque available between 2,700 and 5,000 RPM, the C300 offers strong low-end and mid-range responsiveness for everyday driving.
- 7-Speed Automatic Transmission: Experience smooth and efficient gear changes with the 7-speed automatic transmission, contributing to both performance and fuel economy.
- Front Suspension: The C300 utilizes a 3-link independent strut-type front suspension with a stabilizer bar, designed to provide a balance of ride comfort and precise handling.
- Rear Suspension: A multi-link independent rear suspension with stabilizer bar further enhances handling and ride quality, ensuring stability and control in various driving conditions.
- Dual Exhaust with Chrome Outlets: The dual exhaust system with chrome outlets adds a touch of sporty styling to the rear of the vehicle.
Safety and Security Features in the 2012 C300
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2012 C300 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features to protect occupants and prevent accidents.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: This innovative system monitors driver behavior and can detect signs of drowsiness, alerting the driver to take a break and helping to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
- ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD Function: The ADAPTIVE BRAKE system enhances braking performance and includes a HOLD function that prevents the vehicle from rolling back on inclines without requiring constant brake pedal pressure.
- LED Daytime Running Lamps: Enhance vehicle visibility during daylight hours with bright and energy-efficient LED daytime running lamps.
- LED Tail Lamps: LED tail lamps provide improved visibility and faster illumination compared to traditional bulbs, enhancing safety for following drivers.
- Comprehensive Warranty: Enjoy peace of mind with a new vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty, protecting against unexpected repairs.
- 24 hr. Roadside Assistance Program: Benefit from 24-hour roadside assistance for unexpected vehicle issues, providing support when you need it most.
- Steel-Reinforced Cabin with Crumple Zones: The vehicle’s structure incorporates a steel-reinforced cabin and front & rear crumple zones designed to absorb and dissipate impact energy in the event of a collision.
- Extensive Airbag System: The C300 is equipped with 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, providing comprehensive occupant protection.
- Active Front Head Restraints: Active front head restraints help to minimize whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.
- 4-Wheel ABS Disc Brakes with Brake Assist System: Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS) combined with Brake Assist System (BAS) provide powerful and controlled braking performance, especially in emergency situations.
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP®): ESP® helps to maintain vehicle stability by detecting and counteracting skids and loss of control.
- Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR): ASR works in conjunction with ESP® to prevent wheelspin during acceleration, improving traction on slippery surfaces.
- LATCH-Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren: LATCH system provides secure and convenient attachment points for child safety seats.
- Antitheft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer: Protect your vehicle from theft with an antitheft alarm system and engine immobilizer.
- SmartKey with Panic Button: The SmartKey system offers keyless entry and includes a panic button for added security.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Maintain optimal tire pressure and enhance safety with the tire pressure monitoring system, which alerts the driver to low tire pressure conditions.
2012 C300 Option Packages
To further personalize the 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz, a variety of option packages were available, allowing buyers to tailor the vehicle to their specific preferences and needs.
No Charge Packages
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Sport Sedan Package (No Charge): Enhance the sporty character of your C300 with the Sport Sedan Package, including:
- Sport suspension for more dynamic handling.
- Sport bodystyling for a more aggressive appearance.
- Aluminum trim interior accents.
- 17″ Split 5-spoke alloy wheels.
- Performance tires: 225/45 R17 front / 245/40 R17 rear (all-season).
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Luxury Sedan Package (No Charge): Opt for enhanced comfort and classic elegance with the Luxury Sedan Package, featuring:
- Comfort suspension for a smoother ride.
- Comfort headrests for added relaxation.
- Burl Walnut Wood Trim for a touch of traditional luxury.
- 17″ Split 5-spoke alloy wheels.
- All-season tires: 225/45 R17.
Premium Packages
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Premium 1 Package ($2,500): Upgrade the interior experience with the Premium 1 Package, including:
- Heated Front Seats for cold-weather comfort.
- SIRIUS® satellite radio for a wide range of audio entertainment.
- iPod/MP3 Media Interface (in center console) for seamless device integration.
- harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system for premium audio quality.
- Driver’s seat memory and power steering column for personalized settings.
- Split-folding rear seats for increased cargo versatility.
- 4-way power lumbar support (driver only) for enhanced driving comfort.
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Lighting Package ($1,290): Improve nighttime visibility and aesthetics with the Lighting Package:
- Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination for brighter and more adaptive headlights.
- Headlamp washing system to maintain headlight clarity.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist for automatic high beam control.
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Lane Tracking Package ($850): Enhance safety and driver assistance with the Lane Tracking Package:
- Blind Spot Assist to warn of vehicles in blind spots.
- Lane Keeping Assist to help prevent unintentional lane departures.
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Multimedia Package ($2,790): Bring advanced technology and navigation to your C300 with the Multimedia Package:
- COMAND system with hard-drive navigation (80GB) for integrated navigation.
- 7-inch high resolution LCD color display for enhanced visual clarity.
- Enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation for hands-free operation.
- SIRIUS® real-time traffic service for up-to-date traffic information.
- In-dash DVD/CD and SD card slot for versatile media playback.
- Gracenote® media database for enhanced media recognition.
- 10GB hard-drive with Music Register for storing digital music.
- Rearview Camera for improved visibility when reversing.
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Full Leather Seating Package ($1,750): Elevate interior luxury with the Full Leather Seating Package:
- Leather Upholstery for a premium cabin feel.
- Power / Memory Front Passenger Seat for passenger comfort and convenience.
Stand-Alone Options for the 2012 C300
In addition to packages, a selection of stand-alone options allowed for further customization of the 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz.
- Mercedes-Benz mbrace™ ($660) – Telematics system providing connectivity and services.
- iPod®/MP3 Media Interface ($310) – Standalone media interface option.
- SIRIUS® satellite radio ($460) – Standalone satellite radio option.
- Heated front seats ($750) – Standalone heated front seats option.
- Burl Walnut wood trim ($325) – Standalone wood trim option.
- 18″ AMG Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels ($1,040) – Sporty wheel upgrade.
- 18″ AMG 7-spoke alloy wheels ($1,040) – Alternative sporty wheel design.
- PARKTRONIC w/ Parking Guidance ($970) – Parking sensors with guidance system.
- KEYLESS-GO ($650) – Keyless entry and ignition system.
- Rear side airbags ($420) – Additional side airbags for rear passengers.
- Power tilt/sliding panorama sunroof ($1,090) – Larger panoramic sunroof option.
Special Order Options
- Obsidian Black Paint ($720) – Premium black paint finish.
- Power rear window sunshade ($440) – Rear window sunshade for enhanced privacy and comfort.
Paint and Upholstery Choices
The 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz offered a variety of paint colors and upholstery options to suit individual tastes.
Paint Colors: Black, Magnetite Black, Mars Red (Sport), Cuprite Brown, Arctic White, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Diamond White, Lunar Blue, Pearl Beige, Sapphire Grey.
Upholstery Options: Black MB-Tex, Almond MB-Tex, Ash MB-Tex, Black Leather, Ash Leather, Almond / Beige Leather (Luxury), Sahara Beige / Black Leather (Sport), Cappuccino Leather (Sport).
Conclusion
The 2012 C300 Mercedes-Benz offered a compelling package of standard luxury, performance, and safety features, further enhanced by a wide array of available options and packages. Whether you prioritized sporty driving dynamics or ultimate comfort, the 2012 C300 could be configured to meet a variety of needs and preferences, solidifying its position as a leading luxury sedan in its class.
