The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup offers a variety of choices in sedan, coupe, and convertible forms, each delivering the luxury and performance expected from the German automaker. At the heart of the standard models lies the C 300, powered by a potent turbocharged four-cylinder engine and available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (4Matic) configurations. Stepping up in performance brings you to the AMG line, featuring the AMG C 43, AMG C 63, and AMG C 63 S, each boasting increasing levels of power and sporty enhancements. For those interested in efficiency, a plug-in hybrid, the C 350e, was also slated for release within the model year. However, for many, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 strikes an ideal balance of luxury, performance, and technology, making it a compelling option in the competitive compact luxury segment.
Within the C 300 sedan range, buyers could select between Sport and Luxury sub-trims. These distinctions were subtle yet impactful, primarily manifesting in suspension tuning, wheel designs, and unique styling cues. The price difference was minimal, allowing personalization without a significant cost increase. A notable aesthetic choice was the option for the traditional stand-up Mercedes-Benz hood star, a feature favored by enthusiasts and available with the Luxury trim package.
Standard equipment on the 2017 C 300 was generous, reflecting its luxury positioning. It included 17-inch wheels, automatic windshield wipers, and a rearview camera for enhanced visibility. Inside, dual-zone automatic climate control ensured comfort for both driver and passenger, while a power-adjustable steering wheel and 10-way power front seats with four-way lumbar support provided customizable driving positions. Driver-seat memory settings added convenience, and MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery offered a premium feel. The practical 40/20/40-split folding rear seatbacks increased cargo versatility. The COMAND infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch central display, console-mounted dial controller, Bluetooth, a CD player, dual USB ports, an SD card reader, and HD radio, catered to connectivity and entertainment needs.
Choosing the C 300 coupe variant brought upgrades to standard features, including larger 18-inch wheels and a panoramic sunroof. Interestingly, the rearview camera became an optional feature on the coupe, while remaining standard on the sedan. The convertible model, on the other hand, retained the standard rearview camera and added features tailored to open-top driving. These included a power-folding fabric top, Mercedes’ Airscarf system that gently warmed the neck and shoulders of front occupants, a removable wind blocker to minimize cabin turbulence, and a blind-spot monitor for added safety during lane changes.
Optional packages for the 2017 C 300 offered a tiered approach to customization, with slight variations between the sedan and two-door models. The Premium 1 package enhanced convenience with blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and push-button start, and SiriusXM satellite radio. For coupe and convertible models, this package also included an upgraded Burmester surround sound system, elevating the audio experience.
Moving up to the Premium 2 package (sedan only) incorporated the Premium 1 features and added performance LED headlamps for improved nighttime visibility, along with the Burmester premium sound system. The Premium 3 package introduced a significant technology upgrade, featuring an electronic trunk closer for ease of use, voice control functionality, ambient interior lighting to personalize the cabin atmosphere, a larger 8.4-inch infotainment screen with integrated navigation, and a touchpad infotainment controller for alternative input methods. The most comprehensive, the Premium 4 package, focused on advanced safety and driver assistance systems. It included a suite of active safety and collision mitigation technologies, adaptive cruise control for relaxed highway driving, a cabin air purification and fragrance system for enhanced in-car environment, and cornering headlamps with automatic high beams for optimized illumination. It’s worth noting that selecting these Premium packages often required adding heated and ventilated, or at least heated, front seats as part of the configuration.
For the C 300 coupe and cabriolet, the Premium 2 and Premium 3 packages aligned with the sedan’s Premium 3 and Premium 4 packages respectively, indicating a streamlined option structure for the two-door models. Notably, a Premium 4 package was not offered for the coupe or convertible. For enhanced ride comfort and handling adjustability, the Airmatic package offered an air suspension system with selectable tuning modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving dynamics to their preferences.
Beyond packages, the 2017 C 300 offered a range of standalone options for further personalization. These included a panoramic sunroof for an open and airy cabin feel, a head-up display projecting key driving information onto the windshield, heated and ventilated front seats for year-round comfort, a heated steering wheel for cold climates, and various interior and exterior trim choices to refine the aesthetic.
While the focus here is primarily on the C 300, it’s worth briefly mentioning the AMG models for context within the 2017 C-Class range. The AMG C 43 came standard with features comparable to the Premium 1 package (adjusted for two-door and four-door configurations) and distinctive interior trim, including natural grain black wood for the sedan and gloss black for the coupe and cabriolet. The higher-performance AMG C 63 and C 63 S sedan models included features comparable to the Premium 2 package as standard. Sport seats, red seat belts, and a unique AMG head-up display were available for the AMG interiors. For those seeking maximum performance from the two-door AMG models, optional carbon-ceramic brakes, performance exhaust systems, and upgraded wheels and tires could be specified.
Powering the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C 300 is a responsive and efficient turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and confident highway merging. A smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission is the sole transmission option, directing power to the rear wheels in standard configuration. The 4Matic all-wheel-drive system was available as an option for enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions.
Mercedes-Benz estimated the 2017 C 300 sedan and coupe could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.3 seconds, a respectable figure for the class. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with EPA estimates of 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway) for the rear-wheel-drive model and 25 mpg combined (23 city/29 highway) for the 4Matic version.
In summary, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 represents a well-rounded luxury vehicle offering a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. With its variety of body styles, trim options, and available features, the C 300 catered to a broad range of preferences within the luxury car market, and remains a sought-after model for those seeking a sophisticated and enjoyable driving experience.
