The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class remains a popular choice for drivers seeking luxury and performance in a compact sedan. Within this model year, the C300 4MATIC stands out as a particularly appealing variant, blending robust power with all-weather capability. Let’s delve into the standard and optional equipment that made the 2014 C300 4MATIC a desirable vehicle.
Comfort and Convenience Features of the 2014 C300 4MATIC
Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with comfort, and the 2014 C300 4MATIC delivers a range of features designed to enhance the driving and passenger experience. Standard amenities focused on convenience and luxury include a power sunroof, allowing natural light to flood the cabin, and dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring personalized temperature settings for both driver and passenger. Both front occupants benefit from 8-way power seats with lumbar support, while all passengers can enjoy the integrated audio system featuring HD Radio, a single-disc CD player, USB port, and Bluetooth audio streaming for modern connectivity. For hands-free calling, a Bluetooth interface is also standard.
The interior is further refined with a central controller paired with a 5.8-inch high-mounted display for managing vehicle functions. A multifunction leather steering wheel adds a touch of elegance and provides convenient access to controls. Practical features such as front and rear cupholders, tilt & telescoping steering column, electronic cruise control, and power windows with express up and down function are all included. Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting, along with rain-sensing intermittent wipers, add to the vehicle’s intelligent convenience features. For enhanced visibility, auto-dimming driver & rearview mirrors and an integrated compass are standard. Rear passengers will appreciate the split-folding rear seats, adding versatility to the cargo space.
Performance and Handling of the 2014 C300 4MATIC
The “4MATIC” designation in the 2014 C300 Mercedes name signifies its all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in challenging weather conditions. Under the hood, the C300 4MATIC boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine, naturally aspirated to deliver smooth and responsive power. This engine produces 248 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque, available from 2,700 to 5,000 rpm. The engine’s capability is managed by a 7-speed driver-adaptive automatic transmission with Touch Shift, allowing for both comfortable cruising and more engaging driving when desired. The inclusion of ECO Start/Stop technology further enhances efficiency.
The chassis of the 2014 C300 Mercedes-Benz is engineered for a balance of comfort and agile handling. It features a 3-link independent strut-type front suspension with stabilizer bar and a multi-link independent rear suspension with stabilizer bar. Stopping power is provided by 11.6″ single-piston floating front brakes and 11.8″ single-piston floating rear brakes. The C300 4MATIC is equipped with 225/45 R17 all-season tires at the front and 245/40 R17 all-season tires at the rear. Visually, the car features dual exhaust with two chrome outlets, adding a sporty touch.
Safety and Security Features in the 2014 C300 4MATIC
Mercedes-Benz places a high priority on safety, and the 2014 Mercedes C300 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features. Standard safety equipment includes a high-strength steel reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones, a supplemental restraint system with occupant sensor, and 3-point seat belts with pretensioners & dual-stage belt force limiters for all occupants. Multiple airbags are standard, including front dual-stage airbags, front and rear side window airbags, front side airbags, driver and front passenger pelvic airbags, and a driver knee airbag. NECK-PRO active head restraints are designed to mitigate whiplash injuries. For child safety, ISOFIX anchor and tether system is included.
Electronic safety systems are also prominent, featuring Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR). The ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness monitor is a valuable feature, and an anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button provide security. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System is also standard, contributing to both safety and optimal tire wear. Mercedes-Benz also provides peace of mind with a New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty and a 24 Hour Roadside Assistance Program.
Optional Packages and Customization for the 2014 C300 4MATIC
For buyers looking to personalize their 2014 Mercedes C300 4MATIC, a range of optional packages were available. The Premium Package, a popular upgrade, added features like 4-Way Power Lumbar Support, iPod/MP3 Media Interface Cable, Power Front Seats with Driver Memory, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, harman/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound System, and Heated Front Seats. The Full Leather Seating Package provided leather upholstery and a 10-Way Power Front Passenger Seat with Memory.
For enhanced visibility, the Lighting Package included Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve Illumination. The Multimedia Package offered a comprehensive COMAND system with Hard-Drive Navigation, 3D Map Views, 10GB Music Register, a larger 7″ High Resolution LCD Screen, in-dash 6-DVD/CD player, and more, along with a Rearview Camera and Voice Control. The Sport Package enhanced the vehicle’s aesthetics with 18″ AMG wheels, Black MB-Tex/DINAMICA upholstery with Red Contrast Stitching, AMG rear spoiler, red seat belts, and black floor mats with red leather piping. For advanced driver assistance, the Lane Tracking Package and Driver Assistance Package (not available on Luxury Models) offered features like Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist.
Beyond packages, individual options included Burl Walnut Wood trim and stand-alone upgrades. A wide palette of Paint Options, including Black, Polar White, Mars Red, and various metallic finishes like Magnetite Black and Diamond Silver, allowed for exterior customization. Upholstery Options ranged from MB-Tex to Leather in colors like Black, Almond/Mocha, and Ash/Black.
Paint, Upholstery, and Trim Choices for the 2014 C300 4MATIC
The 2014 C300 Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC offered a variety of choices to tailor the car’s appearance. Paint options included standard colors like Black, Polar White, and Mars Red, alongside a selection of metallic paints such as Magnetite Black, Obsidian Black, Dolomite Brown, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Lunar Blue, and Diamond Silver, and the premium Diamond White metallic.
Interior upholstery choices ranged across MB-Tex and Leather options. MB-Tex options included Black MB-Tex/DINAMICA (Sport Package exclusive), Black MB-Tex, Almond/Mocha MB-Tex, and Ash/Black MB-Tex. Leather upholstery was available in Black Leather, Almond/Mocha Leather, Ash/Black Leather, and Cappuccino/Black Leather. Trim options allowed for further personalization, with Aluminum trim standard, Black Ash Wood and Burl Walnut Wood trims also available, depending on the specific model and package selections.
Conclusion
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC provided a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability. Its extensive list of standard comfort, convenience, and safety features, combined with a range of optional packages and customization possibilities, made it a strong contender in the luxury sedan market. For those seeking a refined driving experience with the added security of all-wheel drive, the 2014 C300 4MATIC remains a worthy option to consider.
