2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Overview
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a compact premium sedan. While the C-Class is considered the entry-level model in the Mercedes lineup, slotted below the E-Class, the 5-passenger sedan is well appointed. In a unique move, the C-Class is offered in two very distinct trim packages: Sport or Luxury. The packages define the exterior facades and the standard equipment. The C-Class models are offered with 6-cylinder and 8-cylinder powerplants.

History/Genealogy
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class was first introduced in 1993 as a replacement to the discontinued 190 range. The smallest sedan in the lineup, the C-Class was designed to compete directly against its European rivals, the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 Series.

The C-Class has been offered in many different configurations over nearly two decades. These have included 4-cylinder, 6-cylinder, and high-performance 8-cylinder models. Body styles have ranged from 3-door hatchbacks and 4-door sedans, to 5-door station wagons. The current-generation C-Class debuted in 2008. While the European market is offered the new C-Class in various body styles as well as the option of diesel engines, all North American models are 4-door gas-powered sedans. Mercedes made only minor option changes for 2010.

An all-new C-Class Coupe and C-Class Cabriolet are reportedly in the works for 2011.

Dimensions and Interior Room

Model	4-Door
Length	182.3 inches
Width	69.7 inches
Height	56.9 inches
Weight	3,560 pounds
Passenger Volume	88.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume	12 cubic feet

Features and Options
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is offered in four different models: C300 Sport Sedan, C300 Luxury Sedan, C350 Sport Sedan, and C63 AMG. In addition to their option packages, the Sport and Luxury models are differentiated by physical attributes.

Sport models feature a large "three-pointed-star" (the Mercedes logo) grille, a deep front air dam, a small lip spoiler, staggered-width rear wheels, and more. Luxury models feature a more traditional front end with a hood emblem, chrome accents, a smaller grille opening, and more. In addition to its much more powerful engine, the C63 is identified by its lower stance, aggressive bodywork, unique exhaust, wide wheels, and more. The interior of the C63 also features a sport dash treatment, sport seats, and unique appointments.

Standard features on all C-Class models include automatic climate control, air conditioning, keyless entry, power locks, heated mirrors, and more. Premium package options include seat memory, 4-way power lumbar, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, split-folding seats, bi-xenon headlamps, COMAND system, navigation, and more.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is offered with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine rated at 228 horsepower and 211 lb.-ft. of torque (C300); a 3.5-liter 6-cylinder rated at 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque (C350); or a 6.2-liter 8-cylinder rated at 457 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. of torque (C63 AMG). Rear- or all-wheel drive is offered on the C300 models. The C350 and C63 are only available with rear-wheel drive. A 6-speed manual transmission is available on the C300 Sport Sedan, but all other models are fitted with a 7-speed automatic. Fuel economy for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class ranges between 12 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Safety and Crash Testing

NHTSA	Model	4-Door
	Front Driver	Not tested
	Front Passenger	Not tested
	Side Driver	Not tested
	Side Rear Passenger	Not tested
	Rollover 2WD	4 stars
	Rollover 4WD	4 stars
IIHS	** TOP SAFETY PICK **
	Frontal Offset	Good
	Side Impact	Good
	Roof Strength	Good

Study Results

2010 IQS	Highest ranked in segment
2010 VDS	-
2009 APEAL	-

To learn more visit:
2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Model Page