The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2023 is a compact executive car that has been around in the German marque's lineup since 1993. Mercedes-Benz Philippines introduced the fifth-generation C-Class on August 2022. Pricing then starts at Php 3.89 million.
Under the hood, this luxury sedan uses a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline four-cylinder engine that can produce up to 170 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. The said engine then works in-tandem with an electronic motor powered by a 48-volt power supply. A 9G-Tronic (9-speed automatic) transmission is used to send power to the rear wheels.
Dimensions-wise, the C-Class is 4,751 mm long, 2,033 mm wide, and 1,440 mm high. In the local market, this German compact executive car competes against the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Lexus IS.
Launch
The C-Class Philippines was first produced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 range. It used to be the smallest model in the Mercedes-Benz line-up before the arrival of the A-Class. In the Philippines, the nameplate was launched in 2014. Fast forward to 2022, Mercedes-Benz Phillippines launched the fifth-generation version on August 2022.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Exterior
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2023 boasts of its refined new silhouette that is created by a balance of edges and angles. Its body lines run from the sides to the rear that functions as a wind cutter which provides improved aerodynamics.
For the local version, it comes packaged with the Avantgarde exterior. This provides in with LED headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, LED headlamps, a single louvre grille, and a muscular-looking grille. It also rides on a set of 18-inch alloy wheels.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Interior
Inside the C-Class Philippines is a refined and luxurious cabin decked in premium materials. The brand’s signature neutral color palette is blended with more modern details and features. Seats for the current C-Class are wrapped in high-quality leather matched with an electronically adjustable driver’s seat for added comfort. Comfort is then provided with a Thermatic automatic climate control system.
Other features found inside the new C-Class are Velour floor mats, a 64-color ambient lighting system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, folding rear backrests, 4-way lumber support for the seats, among others.
Technology & Safety Features
Dominating the dashboard of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an 12-inch MBUX touchscreen display. For connectivity, it has wireless Apple CarPlaym, Android Auto, Bluetooth and USB. The said headunit can also be controlled via voice commands.
For the driver, this luxury model is also kitted out with a 10.25-inch full digital gauge cluster. It displays the usual speed, tachometer, and trip meter, but it can also give media notifications among others things.
For safety, the all-new C-Class gets anti-lock braking, stability control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, plenty of airbags, a reverse camera, tire pressure monitoring, and several ultrasonic exterior sensors. Those are then backed-up with seven airbags, active brake assist, acceleration slip regulation, a car alarm with interior motion sensor, blind spot assist, adaptive brake lights, attention assist, active pedestrian protection, a cruise control with speed limiter, active park assist, etc.
Platform & Chassis
The C-Class uses the Mercedes-Benz MRA II platform. It shares this with the GLX, and it's larger S-Class brother. As for its layout, it is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive model. It then uses a Sturt-type front suspension, and a multi-link rear suspension. Braking for this model is handled by disc brakes for all four wheels. It also uses an electronic parking brake.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Engine & Drivetrain
Under the hood of the new Philippine-spec C-Class is a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine that's working together with an electric motor. Together, this hybrid system can make up to 170 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. The said engine is then paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox.