Since it is no longer the stepping stone into the tri-starry universe, the baby C-Class has been free to ape the patriarch of the family – the S-Class – in recent years. But, no previous generations have come this close to tricking you into believing so, even when you’re inside the cabin. The W206 isn’t just a facelift, but an all-new generation of C-Class that borrows tech and design cues heavily from the larger Mercs, and somehow, looks the best proportioned of all.
Mercedes-Benz C200 review
ex-showroom
A swept-back look to the cabin, the power domes on the bonnet and the short and stubby boot that tapers into split tail lamps do their part to lend width and stance. It’s a pretty looking car with fantastic wheel designs on both the C200 Avant Garde and C300d AMG line variants. There’s also a C220d diesel in the line-up, but this impression is all about the only petrol-powered model in the line-up, the Mercedes-Benz C200.
Tech
Externally, the digital lights are the only real differentiator in terms of tech between the C200/C220d and the C300d AMG line. Still, the C200 gets high-performance LEDs that don’t diminish its street cred by much. Aesthetically, there are differences in the front grille, bumper and the rear apron too, along with different wheel sizes for the two lines but the overall design of the C-Class is a head turner no doubt.
Alternatively, you could also use the heavily updated Mercedes Me connected car app and login even before you get in the car and while you’re at it, even pre-cool the cabin via the app. Of course, it also lets you monitor a plethora of the car’s vital systems like tyre pressure, door/boot/hood status, sunroof control, geofence, eco display and lots more.
Although the C200 gets the stock audio system, which honestly is a letdown with only four full-range speakers doing all audio duties, the C300d gets the proper Burmester experience with 15 speakers and more than 700W of power. If you’re a music lover, you will have to look for after-market upgrades for the C200 and what really rubs it in your face are the faux grilles for the tweeters.
Drive
Verdict
Stuff Says
The C200 has become expensive but redeems itself with top-notch craftsmanship, avant-garde design and advanced tech.
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Specifications
Engine: | 1.5L turbo petrol |
Power: | 201bhp (+20hp) / 300Nm (+200Nm) |
Transmission: | 9G tronic |
Acceleration: | 0-100 in 7.3secs |
Efficiency: | 16.9km/l |