The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 marked a significant step in luxury and technology within the compact executive sedan segment. For those considering a pre-owned model or simply interested in the detailed specifications of this vehicle, understanding its standard and optional features is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive overview of what the 2015 Mercedes C300 offered in terms of comfort, performance, safety, and available packages, helping you appreciate the depth of engineering and customization present in this model year. Whether you’re a Mercedes-Benz aficionado or a prospective buyer, delve into the features that made the 2015 C300 a standout choice.
Comfort and Convenience Features in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 is designed with occupant comfort and convenience in mind, offering a range of standard features to enhance every drive. From climate control to advanced media interfaces, the C300 ensures a pleasant and connected experience. Below is a breakdown of the comfort and convenience features you could expect in the standard 2015 C300, and how they compared to the C300 4MATIC and C400 4MATIC models.
| Feature | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Power Front Seats with Driver Memory | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Audio System with Single-Disc CD, USB Port, iPod interface, Bluetooth Audio Streaming & HD Radio | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Bluetooth Interface for Hands-Free Phone Use | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Central Controller with 7″ High-Mounted Display | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Multifunction Leather Steering Wheel | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Color Instrument Cluster Display | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front and Rear Cupholders | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Power Tilt & Telescoping Steering Column | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Electronic Cruise Control | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Power Windows with Express Up and Down | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps with Twilight Sensor & Locator Lighting | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Trip Computer | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Auto-Dimming Driver & Rearview Mirror | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Power Folding Mirrors | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Intermittent Wipers with Rain Sensor | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Split-Folding Rear Seats | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Touchpad | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| KEYLESS-START | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| AGILITY SELECT | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Heated Front Seats | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| SIRIUS Satellite Radio | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| Burmester Premium Sound System | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| LED Headlights | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| KEYLESS-GO | Optional | Optional | Standard |
As you can see, the 2015 C300 came generously equipped as standard. Features like dual-zone climate control, power seats with memory, and a comprehensive infotainment system were all included. For those seeking even more luxury, options such as heated front seats, a premium Burmester sound system, and KEYLESS-GO were available, and notably, some of these were standard on the higher-spec C400 4MATIC model.
Performance and Handling of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300
The driving experience is a core aspect of any Mercedes-Benz, and the 2015 C300 delivered a balanced performance with its turbocharged engine and refined handling. Here’s a look at the performance and handling features, comparing the C300, C300 4MATIC, and the more powerful C400 4MATIC.
| Feature | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECO Start/Stop System | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Engine | 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder Turbocharged | 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder Turbocharged | 3.0-liter V six-cylinder Bi-turbo |
| Horsepower @rpm | 241 @5,500 | 241 @5,500 | 329 @6,000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @rpm | 273 @1,300-4,000 | 273 @1,300-4,000 | 354 @1,600-4,000 |
| Max. engine speed (rpm) | 6,500 | 6,500 | 6,500 |
| Top Speed (limited) (mph) | 130 | 130 | 130 |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic with Touch Shift | 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic with Touch Shift | 7-Speed Adaptive Adaptive Automatic with Touch Shift |
| Front Suspension | 4-link | 4-link | 4-link |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link Independent | Multi-link Independent | Multi-link Independent |
| Dual Exhaust with Two Chrome Outlets | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| 4MATIC All Wheel Drive System | Not Applicable | Standard | Standard |
| Front Brakes | Single Piston Floating | Single Piston Floating | Four Piston Fixed Caliper |
| Rear Brakes | Single Piston Floating | Single Piston Floating | Single Piston Floating |
| Front Tires | 225/50 R17 All-Season | 225/50 R17 All-Season | 225/45 R18 All-Season |
| Rear Tires | 245/45 R17 All-Season | 245/45 R17 All-Season | 245/40 R18 All-Season |
The standard C300 was powered by a responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 241 horsepower, which is more than adequate for daily driving and spirited performance. The 7-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth gear changes and efficient power delivery. For enhanced traction, the C300 4MATIC offered all-wheel drive, while the C400 4MATIC boasted a more powerful 3.0-liter V6 bi-turbo engine and upgraded front brakes for increased stopping power.
Safety and Security Features of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300
Mercedes-Benz has long been synonymous with safety, and the 2015 C300 is no exception. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents. Here are the standard safety and security features found in the 2015 C300 range.
| Feature | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| 24 Hour Roadside Assistance Program | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Mercedes-Benz Maintenance System | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| High Strength Steel Reinforced Cabin with Front & Rear Crumple Zones | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Supplemental Restraint System with Occupant Sensor | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| 3-Point Seat Belt with Pretensioners & Dual-Stage Belt Force Limiter | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front Dual Stage Airbags | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Combination Thorax/Pelvis Side Airbags for Driver and Front Passenger | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front and Rear Side Window Airbags | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Driver Knee Airbag | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| ISOFIX Anchor and Tether System | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Brake Assist System (BAS) | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Program (ESP) | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| ATTENTION ASSIST Driver Drowsiness Monitor | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti-Theft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| SmartKey with Panic Button | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| PRE-SAFE | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) PLUS | Standard | Standard | Standard |
The 2015 C300 prioritized safety with a robust suite of features. Beyond the expected airbags and stability control, it included advanced systems like PRE-SAFE®, which can prepare the vehicle for an impending collision, and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which can help mitigate or prevent frontal collisions. ATTENTION ASSIST was also standard, monitoring driver behavior for signs of drowsiness.
Options and Packages for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300
To personalize their 2015 C300, buyers had a wide array of standalone options and packages to choose from. These allowed for customization in aesthetics, technology, and performance. Let’s explore the paint, upholstery, trim options, and popular packages that were available.
Paint Options
| Paint Option | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black | Standard | Standard | Standard | $0 |
| Polar White | Standard | Standard | Standard | $0 |
| Dakota Brown (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $720 |
| Steel Grey (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $720 |
| Iridium Silver (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $720 |
| Palladium Silver (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $720 |
| Lunar Blue (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $720 |
| Obsidian Black (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $720 |
| Diamond Silver (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $720 |
| designo Diamond White (metallic) | Optional | Optional | Optional | $1,515 |
The 2015 C300 offered a variety of paint finishes, from standard non-metallic options like Black and Polar White to a range of metallic paints for added sophistication. For an even more exclusive look, the designo Diamond White metallic paint was available at a premium.
Upholstery Options
| Upholstery Option | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black MB-Tex | Standard | Standard | Standard | $0 | |
| Black Leather | Optional | Optional | Optional | $2,3001 | Part of Interior Package |
| Silk Beige/Black MB-Tex | Standard | Standard | Standard | $0 | |
| Silk Beige/Black Leather | Optional | Optional | Optional | $2,3001 | Part of Interior Package |
| Ash Grey/Deep Sea Blue MB-Tex | Standard** | Standard** | Standard** | $0 | |
| Ash Grey/Black MB-Tex | Standard | Standard | Standard | $0 | |
| Ash Grey/Black Leather | Optional | Optional | Optional | $2,3001 | Part of Interior Package |
| Silk Beige/Espresso MB-Tex | Standard2 | Standard2 | Standard2 | $0 | Only in conjunction with Luxury Package |
| Silk Beige/Espresso Leather | Optional1,2 | Optional1,2 | Optional1,2 | $2,3001,2 | Part of Interior & Luxury Packages |
| Cranberry Red/Black Leather | Optional1,3 | Optional1,3 | Optional1,3 | $2,3001,3 | Part of Interior & Sport Packages |
Note: 1 part of Interior Package, 2 only in conjunction Luxury Package, 3 only in conjunction Sport Package, ** limited availability
Interior upholstery choices ranged from standard MB-Tex (a high-quality synthetic leather) to genuine leather in various colors. Some leather options were tied to specific packages, such as the Interior Package or required the selection of the Luxury or Sport Packages, offering different aesthetic and tactile experiences.
Trim Options
| Trim Option | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum/High-Gloss Black | Standard | Standard | Standard | $0 |
| Open-Pore Black Ash Wood | Optional | Optional | Standard | – |
| Burl Walnut Wood | Optional | Optional | Not Available | $325 |
| Linden Wood | Optional | Optional | Standard | $325 |
Interior trim options allowed further personalization of the cabin. While Aluminum/High-Gloss Black trim was standard, buyers could opt for wood trims like Open-Pore Black Ash, Burl Walnut, or Linden Wood to create a warmer or more traditional ambiance. Notably, some wood trims were standard on the C400 4MATIC.
Premium Package
| Premium Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LED Headlights | Included | Included | Standard | |
| SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Burmester Premium Sound System | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Heated Front Seats | Included | Included | Standard | |
| KEYLESS-GO | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Package Price | $2,700 | $2,700 | Standard |
The Premium Package was a popular choice, bundling together several desirable upgrades. It included LED headlights for improved visibility, the Burmester premium sound system for enhanced audio, heated front seats for comfort in colder climates, SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio for entertainment, and KEYLESS-GO for convenience. For the C400 4MATIC, this package’s contents were largely standard.
Luxury Package
| Luxury Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17″ Split 5-Spoke Wheel | Included | Included | Not Available | |
| Comfort Suspension | Included | Included | Not Available | |
| Luxury Grill with ‘Standing Star’ | Included | Included | Not Available | |
| Burl Walnut Trim or Brown Fineline Trim | Included | Included | Not Available | |
| Dash with MB-Tex | Included | Included | Not Available | |
| Package Price | $650 | $650 | Not Available |
The Luxury Package focused on enhancing the traditional Mercedes-Benz luxury feel. It included comfort-oriented features like a comfort suspension and unique styling elements like a luxury grill with the ‘standing star’ hood ornament, along with upgraded interior trim and MB-Tex on the dashboard. This package was not available for the C400 4MATIC, likely because its standard configuration already leaned towards luxury.
Lighting Package
| Lighting Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adaptive Highbeam Assist | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Dynamic LED Headlamps | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Package Price | $800* | $800* | $800 | *only in conjunction with Premium Package |
The Lighting Package was designed to maximize nighttime visibility and driving safety. It featured Adaptive Highbeam Assist, which automatically adjusts high beams to avoid dazzling other drivers, and Dynamic LED Headlamps that provide bright and efficient illumination. This package required the Premium Package to be selected.
Multimedia Package
| Multimedia Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMAND System with Navigation & Voice Control | Included | Included | Included | ||
| 3D Map Views | Included | Included | Included | ||
| 10GB Music Register | Included | Included | Included | ||
| 8.4″ High Resolution LCD Screen | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Single DVD/CD player | Included | Included | Included | ||
| SD Memory Card Slot | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Gracenote media database including album cover art | Included | Included | Included | ||
| SIRIUS XM Traffic and Weather | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Rearview Camera | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Navigation Map Updates included for 3 years | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Package Price | $2,690* | $2,690* | $2,690* | *only in conjunction with Premium Package |
For those wanting the latest in infotainment technology, the Multimedia Package was a must-have. It upgraded the infotainment system with COMAND navigation, a larger 8.4″ high-resolution screen, enhanced multimedia capabilities, and a rearview camera. This package also required the Premium Package.
Sport Package
| Sport Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18″ AMG Wheels or 19″ AMG Wheels (extra charge) | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Sports Suspension | Included | Included | Standard | |
| AMG Bodystyling | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Black Ash Wood Open Pore Trim | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Black Headliner | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Sports Seats | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Flat Bottom Sport Steering Wheel | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Front brakes with perforated discs | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Aluminum Pedals with Rubber Studs | Included | Included | Standard | |
| AMG Floormats | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Dash with MB-Tex | Included | Included | Standard | |
| Package Price | $2,500 | $2,500 | Standard |
The Sport Package gave the C300 a more aggressive and dynamic character. It included AMG styling cues, sport suspension for enhanced handling, AMG wheels, sport seats, and sporty interior trim elements. Like the Premium Package, many of the Sport Package features were standard on the C400 4MATIC.
AIR BALANCE Package
| AIR BALANCE Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fragrance, Ionization and Filtration | Included | Included | Included | |
| Package Price | $350 | $350 | $350 |
The AIR BALANCE Package focused on in-cabin air quality and ambiance, adding fragrance, ionization, and filtration systems to the climate control.
AIRMATIC Package
| AIRMATIC Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGILITY SELECT Adjustable Suspension | Included | Included | Included | |
| AIRMATIC Air Suspension | Included | Included | Included | |
| Package Price | $1,190 | $1,190 | $1,190 |
For the ultimate in ride comfort and handling adjustability, the AIRMATIC Package offered AIRMATIC air suspension along with AGILITY SELECT, allowing drivers to customize the driving dynamics.
Interior Package
| Interior Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leather Upholstery | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Ventilated Seats | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Ambient Lighting | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Power Passenger Seat with Memory | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Illuminated Door Sills | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Package Price | $2,300* | $2,300* | $2,300* | *only in conjunction with Premium Package |
The Interior Package elevated the cabin ambiance and comfort significantly with leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, power passenger seat with memory, and illuminated door sills. It required the Premium Package.
Driver Assistance Package
| Driver Assistance Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake | Included | Included | Included | |
| Active Blind Spot Assist | Included | Included | Included | |
| Active Lane Keeping Assist | Included | Included | Included | |
| PRE-SAFE Plus Rear-End Collision Protection | Included | Included | Included | |
| Steering Assist | Included | Included | Included | |
| BAS Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist | Included | Included | Included | |
| Package Price | $2,800 | $2,800 | $2,800 |
For those prioritizing advanced safety and driver assistance technologies, the Driver Assistance Package was available. It included features like DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with steering assist, active blind spot and lane keeping assist, and enhanced brake assist systems, significantly enhancing safety and driving convenience.
Hands-Free Access Package
| Hands-Free Access Package Features | C300 | C300 4MATIC | C400 4MATIC | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hands-Free Trunk Access | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Electronic Trunk Closer | Included | Included | Included | ||
| Package Price | $250 | $250 | $250 | *only in conjunction with Premium Package or KEYLESS-GO |
The Hands-Free Access Package added convenience with features like hands-free trunk access and an electronic trunk closer, making loading and unloading cargo easier. It required the Premium Package or KEYLESS-GO option.
Conclusion
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 offered a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and safety, further enhanced by a comprehensive list of optional features and packages. Whether you prioritized comfort, sporty driving dynamics, or advanced technology, the C300 could be tailored to meet a wide range of preferences. Understanding these standard and optional features is key to appreciating the versatility and appeal of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 in the pre-owned market and beyond.
