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Performance: | 8.2 |
With Mercedes' appealing selection of 2018 C-Class models, you can choose from options that include a pleasant entry-level edition, a fuel-efficient hybrid, or a more aggressive AMG-tuned car. Horsepower and handling vary from one trim to the next, but overall, the C-Class leans on the comfort side of the spectrum.
Four powertrains are available for the C-Class, each tied to a different model. The base C300 comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. This 241-horsepower setup is smooth and brisk, though it can't match AMG-tuned models when it comes to blistering takeoffs or growly exhaust notes. Its fuel economy rating of 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway is about average for the class.
The C350e is a plug-in hybrid. Its 275-horsepower hybrid powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a seven-speed automatic transmission, and a single electric motor. It can only drive about 8 miles on all-electric power, but it has a 51 mpg-equivalent rating. According to the EPA, you can recharge its battery in 1.5 hours at 240 volts.
For faster acceleration, more top-end power, and richer exhaust notes, select from one of the three AMG models. Under the hood of the C43 is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and has a 362-horsepower rating. Fuel economy drops to 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway. AMG C63 models come with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission. Horsepower varies between each version – the C63 is rated at 469 horsepower, while the C63 S achieves 503 horsepower. Gas mileage is estimated at 17-18 mpg city/22-24 mpg highway.
The C-Class comes standard with rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is available in many (but not all) models. The C-Class has easy steering and strong brakes, and it's capable of navigating both crowded city streets and twisty canyon roads with relative ease. The ride quality on some models feels too stiff, but adding the available air suspension system alleviates this.
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