2023 Mercedes-Benz C 300 Miniature

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been setting the benchmark in the entry-level luxury compact car segment for quite some time. And it continues to do so with the introduction of the fifth-gen C 300 showcasing new styling and technology, some of which is borrowed from the fullsize S-Class. Read on.

Designers have made several changes to give the vehicle an even sportier look than previously, for example introducing the so-called “cab-backward” language where the windshield and rest of the greenhouse are moved backward so the hood appears longer. The former grill shape is flipped 180 degrees into an appealing thinner A-shape, housing a

Flagship

large emblem flanked by a single chrome blade slicing through the diamond openstar pattern.

Adding to the aggressive profile are raised bumps, or power domes, on the hood, two-piece horizontal LED taillights (a first on the model), higher shoulder line and 18-inch AMG split five-spoke alloy wheels on our Night Package equipped loaner. Five different paint colours join the palette bringing the total to 12 — the sedan looks particularly attractive in a neutral colour like Opalith White Metallic helping highlight the contrasting black trim and door pillars.

By Benjamin Yong

Highlights

MSRP: $68,650

Motor: 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four cylinder

Horsepower: 255 @ 5,800 rpm

Torque (lb-ft): 295 @ 2,000 rpm

Gearbox: Nine-speed automatic

Layout: All-wheel drive

Fuel economy: 8.6 L/100 km mixed city/highway (manufacturer estimate)