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2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Mercedes-Benz C300 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Cabin quality and design
  • Powerful AMG-engineered performance models
  • Smooth ride

Cons

  • Higher trims send the price soaring upward
  • Sport suspension is too firm
  • Tall adults could feel cramped in the second row

Mileage (EPA estimate)

21 city, 29 highway, 24 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

Old-school luxury and modern tech define the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 lineup.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 sedan has an old-school luxury feel that’s complemented by thoroughly modern driver-assist features and tech. Granted, this generation of C-Class was introduced back for the 2015 model year, so some items—such as its infotainment system—aren’t as cutting-edge as what you’ll find in contemporary models of the larger E-Class, or even the smaller and less expensive CLA.

Competing against rivals like the Audi A4, Lexus ES, and BMW 3 Series, the C300 stands out for its overall refinement, including an opulent interior that feels built to last. Under the hood is a 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder coupled to a nine-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard, though all-wheel drive is optional; look for the 4Matic badge.

The C300 can also be had in stylish coupe or sun-loving convertible configuration. And there are much more potent engines offered in several AMG-tuned variants, though these also come with extremely high price tags.

All Mercedes-Benz C300 years

2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 trims

Curious how Mercedes-Benz C300 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base:

5 reasons to buy the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300

What We Like

Ride and comfort: The C300 is a smooth and composed small luxury car that’s maneuverable and plenty quick even with the base 255-hp engine. In city or highway driving, this Mercedes is refined and reassuring in how it operates.

Interior design: Mercedes has made certain the cabin lives up to the C300’s status as premium-badged luxury sedan. The trim pieces are of a high quality, and the layout of the controls is thoughtful and nicely engineered.

Standard features: Thankfully the C300 sedan doesn’t need to be loaded with pricey extras, though there are many to choose from. Standard equipment includes synthetic leather seating surfaces, a blind-spot warning system, heated front seats, pedestrian detection, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto, and hands-free power trunk lid.

What Needs Improvement

Infotainment system: Because it dates back to the 2015 model year, this generation of C300 has Mercedes’ previous infotainment interface. Generally it’s fine, though some responses are slow and the touchpad controls on the steering wheel are awkward.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Mercedes-Benz C300 an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Mercedes-Benz C300 20th out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Mercedes-Benz C300

2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 FAQ

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