The Mercedes Benz has been Mercedes’ entry-level sedan for as long as I can remember. Young successful people have habitually acquired this car as their first luxury car. With this generation however, The C-Class has shot itself out of the entry-level category and established itself squarely amongst the conventionally larger cars such as the BMW 5-series and the Audi A6, not in size, but in features and price.
What’s New?
The W205 received significant upgrades over its predecessor.
Key upgrades include the interior styling where materials and the general feel of the cabin are more luxurious, with an additional optional red leather interior.
The exterior too comes updated and features more S-Class resemblance than ever before. The car’s upgraded look is almost identical to this generation E-Class. In almost every way, this is no longer entry level Mercedes. And the description “The Mercedes Premio” can no longer be associated with the C-Class.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The W205 C200 is powered by a 2000cc turbocharged petrol engine mated to a 7-speed transmission driving the rear wheels. This engine produces 180 horsepower and 300 NM of torque but in true German fashion, the car feels way quicker than the figures might suggest.
Enjoy fuel economy of up to 14 km/litre when comfortably driving through the week while having the ability to stretch this machine up to 237 km/h on the road.
Being rear wheel drive this car shall give you sufficient smiles per mile as it feels very sporty and agile. It is no wonder every other Mercedes C-Class owner you know enjoys taking trips every now and then all over the country. This car is a joy to drive.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
This car hands down boasts the most extravagant interior amongst its peers. In fact, it may even edge out some bigger vehicles while at it. If you are one who enjoys excess and opulence, you have certainly found your vehicle.
Supple leather, swooping, lines, and interior ambient lighting all combine well with the large sunroof to provide a roomy yet posh interior. The materials used are quite good save for a few regrettable plastic trims here and there.
The car comes with powered memory seats that are both heated and ventilated to provide you with the utmost comfort at the front. Dual-zone climate control is available for both front and rear passengers as standard. The rear of this car is not the most spacious, however, four adults would comfortably sit here for a cross-country journey and not feel squeezed.
An important drawback to note is that though the interior is luxurious and well made, some people find the suspension setup too stiff making the ride somewhat harsh and falling short of its peers.
As far as cargo is concerned, this car comes with 430 litres of boot space, matching many entry level SUVs. That in itself, is worth applause.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The car comes as standard with an AM/FM stereo system with bluetooth connectivity. Wifi connectivity, Android Auto, and Apple Carplay are available as optional extras. This is somewhat disappointing in a car that is luxury oriented.
It is not all bad as the car comes with a premium 590 watt, 13 speaker system that gives crisp clear audio. The car also comes standard with both USB-A and USB-C connectivity.
The infotainment system is accessible from both the multi-functional steering wheel buttons and from the centre console.
Conclusion
The 2016 Mercedes C200 is a stunning car both inside and out. At its price point, there are better cars on the market for less such as the 2016 BMW 5-series, Audi A5 and A6, and even the corresponding Mercedes E-class W214.
The C-Class has its own set of lovers, however, and for those people, they would spend every penny. This car is worth it to the C-Class lover and them alone. Overpriced maybe, but a gem nonetheless.
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