CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,200
Average Price: Around £15,000

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2022-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
The PHEV has a class-leading electric range	Not as sharp to drive as a BMW 3 Series
Beautifully finished interior	There are roomier cars for less money
MBUX infotainment system looks stunning	Bland styling

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is now in its fifth generation and represents a refined, well-equipped executive saloon and estate. The range includes mild-hybrid petrol and diesel engines, plus a plug-in hybrid (C300e) offering an impressive 68-mile pure-electric range—the longest in its class. All models feature a nine-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive, with the option of four-wheel drive only available on high-performance AMG variants. The C-Class boasts understated elegance, a beautifully finished interior, and Mercedes' excellent MBUX infotainment system with intuitive voice control and multiple input methods.

Driving dynamics are composed and refined, particularly in the C300e PHEV, which delivers quiet electric motoring and a smooth petrol engine integration. The diesel C220d offers excellent efficiency at up to 60mpg, whilst the C300e is the most economical option overall and provides lower tax bands for company car users. However, interior space is tighter than some rivals, with the PHEV's 315-litre boot significantly smaller than non-plug-in models. Servicing costs are fairly expensive at around £400-£450 per service. Overall, the C-Class is a solid, indulgent choice for those prioritising quality, technology, and the best plug-in hybrid efficiency in the compact executive class.

Best for: Buyers seeking a premium, well-equipped executive saloon or estate with excellent technology, those wanting the best plug-in hybrid range in the class, and company car users benefiting from lower benefit-in-kind tax on the C300e.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising sharp handling (BMW 3 Series offers better dynamics), maximum interior space (Audi A4 and Volkswagen Passat are roomier), or all-wheel drive on non-AMG models.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the C-Class if: You prioritise premium quality, advanced technology, and the best plug-in hybrid efficiency in the compact executive class, or you're a company car user seeking lower benefit-in-kind tax on the C300e.

Consider alternatives if: You want sharper handling (BMW 3 Series), more interior space (Audi A4), or all-wheel drive on non-performance models.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a strong contender in the compact executive saloon and estate market, offering exceptional build quality, stunning infotainment, and the class-leading C300e plug-in hybrid. Whilst the BMW 3 Series edges ahead on driving dynamics and the Audi A4 offers more spacious interiors, the C-Class delivers a refined, well-equipped alternative with excellent technology and impressive efficiency. For those valuing premium finish and plug-in hybrid capability, it's a compelling choice, though rivals offer better handling and practicality in their respective areas.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.