The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class marked the beginning of a new era for the popular luxury sedan, introducing a more sophisticated design, advanced technology, and enhanced performance. As a significant model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the 2015 C-Class offered a compelling blend of comfort, driving dynamics, and safety, appealing to a wide range of drivers. This article delves into the standard equipment, performance features, safety systems, and available options for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and enthusiasts alike.
Comfort and Convenience Features of the 2015 C-Class
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class was designed with passenger comfort and convenience in mind. Even in its standard configuration, the C-Class was generously equipped with a range of features to enhance the driving and ownership experience.
All 2015 C-Class models, including the C300, C300 4MATIC, and C400 4MATIC, came standard with dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring personalized comfort for both the driver and front passenger. Power front seats with driver memory allowed for easy adjustment and recall of preferred seating positions. For in-car entertainment, an audio system with a single-disc CD player, USB port with iPod interface, Bluetooth audio streaming, and HD Radio were standard. Connectivity was further enhanced by the Bluetooth interface for hands-free phone use.
The central controller with a 7-inch high-mounted display served as the command center for many vehicle functions, while the multifunction leather steering wheel provided convenient access to controls. A color instrument cluster display offered clear and concise vehicle information to the driver. Practicality was addressed with front and rear cupholders, power tilt and telescoping steering column, electronic cruise control, and power windows with express up and down.
Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting added to the convenience and safety, along with a trip computer for monitoring driving data. Auto-dimming driver and rearview mirrors, power folding mirrors, an integrated garage door opener, and intermittent wipers with a rain sensor further elevated the standard features. Split-folding rear seats increased cargo versatility, and the inclusion of a touchpad and KEYLESS-START system highlighted the modern technological approach of the 2015 C-Class. The AGILITY SELECT system, allowing drivers to choose between different driving modes, was also standard across the range.
For those seeking even greater comfort, optional heated front seats and SIRIUS Satellite Radio were available for the C300 and C300 4MATIC, while they came as standard on the C400 4MATIC. The Burmester Premium Sound system and LED Headlights were also optional upgrades, along with the KEYLESS-GO system for enhanced convenience.
2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Performance and Handling Specs
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offered a range of engine options to cater to different performance preferences. The C300 and C300 4MATIC models were powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided a responsive and efficient driving experience, suitable for daily commutes and spirited drives.
Stepping up in performance, the C400 4MATIC featured a 3.0-liter V6 bi-turbo engine, producing 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered significantly more power and enhanced acceleration, making the C400 4MATIC a more performance-oriented option. All models had a top speed limited to 130 mph and a maximum engine speed of 6,500 rpm.
The ECO Start/Stop system was standard across the range, contributing to fuel efficiency. All 2015 C-Class models utilized a 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic transmission with Touch Shift, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. The C400 4MATIC featured a 7-Speed Adaptive Adaptive Automatic transmission with Touch Shift, likely with slightly different tuning to match the more powerful engine.
The suspension setup consisted of a 4-link front suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension for all models, ensuring a balance of comfort and handling. Dual exhaust with two chrome outlets was standard, adding to the sporty aesthetic. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system was available on the C300 and standard on the C400, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Braking systems varied slightly, with the C300 and C300 4MATIC featuring single-piston floating front brakes, while the C400 4MATIC upgraded to four-piston fixed caliper front brakes for improved stopping power. Rear brakes were single-piston floating across all models. Tire sizes differed slightly, with the C300 and C300 4MATIC using 225/50 R17 all-season front tires and 245/45 R17 all-season rear tires. The C400 4MATIC came with slightly larger 225/45 R18 all-season front tires and 245/40 R18 all-season rear tires.
Safety and Security Features in the 2015 C-Class
Mercedes-Benz has long been synonymous with safety, and the 2015 C-Class upheld this reputation with a comprehensive suite of standard safety and security features. All models benefited from a new vehicle 4-year/50,000-mile warranty and a 24-hour Roadside Assistance Program, providing peace of mind to owners. The Mercedes-Benz Maintenance System further simplified vehicle upkeep.
The C-Class was built with a high-strength steel reinforced cabin and front & rear crumple zones to enhance occupant protection in collisions. A supplemental restraint system with occupant sensor, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners & dual-stage belt force limiters, front dual-stage airbags, combination thorax/pelvis side airbags for driver and front passenger, front and rear side window airbags, and a driver knee airbag all contributed to a comprehensive airbag system. ISOFIX anchor and tether system for child seats was also standard.
Active safety systems included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), all working together to help maintain control in challenging driving situations. The ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness monitor was a standard feature, alerting drivers if they showed signs of fatigue. An anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button provided security against theft. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System helped ensure optimal tire inflation for safety and efficiency. Mercedes-Benz’s PRE-SAFE system and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) PLUS were also standard, representing proactive safety measures.
2015 C-Class Options and Packages
Beyond the extensive standard equipment, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offered a wide array of options and packages to personalize the vehicle and enhance luxury, performance, and technology.
Paint and Upholstery Options
A range of paint options were available, including standard Black and Polar White at no additional cost, and metallic options like Dakota Brown, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Lunar Blue, Obsidian Black, and Diamond Silver, each priced at $720. The designo Diamond White metallic paint was a premium option at $1,515.
Upholstery choices included standard Black MB-Tex and Silk Beige/Black MB-Tex at no cost. Leather upholstery in Black, Silk Beige/Black, Ash Grey/Black, and Ash Grey/Deep Sea Blue was available as part of the Interior Package. Silk Beige/Espresso MB-Tex and Leather options, along with Cranberry Red/Black Leather were also offered, sometimes in conjunction with specific packages.
Trim Options
Aluminum/High-Gloss Black trim was standard on C300 and C300 4MATIC and no-cost option on C400 4MATIC. Open-Pore Black Ash Wood trim was optional for C300 and C300 4MATIC and standard on C400 4MATIC. Burl Walnut Wood and Linden Wood trims were also available options.
Premium Package
The Premium Package ($2,700 for C300/C300 4MATIC, Standard for C400) bundled together desirable features like LED Headlights, SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio, Burmester Premium Sound, Heated Front Seats, and KEYLESS-GO.
Luxury Package
The Luxury Package ($650 for C300/C300 4MATIC) focused on enhancing comfort and traditional luxury aesthetics, including 17″ Split 5-Spoke Wheels, Comfort Suspension, Luxury Grill with ‘Standing Star’, Burl Walnut Trim or Brown Fineline Trim, and Dash with MB-Tex.
Lighting Package
The Lighting Package ($800) added Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Dynamic LED Headlamps, requiring the Premium Package for C300 and C300 4MATIC.
Multimedia Package
The Multimedia Package ($2,690) significantly upgraded the infotainment system with COMAND System featuring Navigation, Voice Control, 3D Maps, 10GB Music Register, 8.4″ High Resolution LCD Screen, DVD/CD player, SD Card Slot, Gracenote database, SIRIUS XM Traffic and Weather, Rearview Camera, and Navigation Map Updates for 3 years. This package also required the Premium Package.
Sport Package
The Sport Package ($2,500 for C300/C300 4MATIC, Standard for C400) enhanced the sporty character with 18″ AMG Wheels or 19″ AMG Wheels (extra charge), Sports Suspension, AMG Bodystyling, Black Ash Wood Open Pore Trim, Black Headliner, Sports Seats, Flat Bottom Sport Steering Wheel, Front brakes with perforated discs, Aluminum Pedals with Rubber Studs, AMG Floormats, and Dash with MB-Tex.
AIR BALANCE Package and AIRMATIC Package
The AIR BALANCE Package ($350) introduced Fragrance, Ionization, and Filtration to the cabin environment. The AIRMATIC Package ($1,190) included AGILITY SELECT Adjustable Suspension and AIRMATIC Air Suspension for enhanced ride comfort and handling adjustability.
Interior Package and Driver Assistance Package
The Interior Package ($2,300) elevated the cabin experience with Leather Upholstery, Ventilated Seats, Ambient Lighting, Power Passenger Seat with Memory, and Illuminated Door Sills, requiring the Premium Package. The Driver Assistance Package ($2,800) added advanced driver aids like DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE Plus Rear-End Collision Protection, Steering Assist, and BAS Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist.
Hands-Free Access Package
The Hands-Free Access Package ($250) provided Hands-Free Trunk Access and Electronic Trunk Closer, requiring the Premium Package or KEYLESS-GO.
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class was a well-equipped luxury sedan that offered a compelling combination of comfort, performance, safety, and technology. With a wide range of standard features and extensive options and packages, buyers could tailor the 2015 C-Class to their specific preferences and needs, making it a highly desirable vehicle in its class.
