2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon Specs & Pictures

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon and Estate bring the brand’s best-selling model family fully up to date with its most comprehensive technical upgrade yet. The new models build on the familiar strengths that have made the C-Class such a trusted choice: athletic design, a high-quality interior, electrified high-tech combustion engines and intuitive digital technology. With a sharpened presence, enhanced comfort and a broad choice of electrified high-tech petrol and diesel engines as well as plug-in hybrid models, the new C-Class is tailored to the needs of different customer lifestyles. All engines have been further developed with a clear focus on efficiency, performance and regulatory readiness, including preparation for upcoming EU7 requirements. Prices in Germany start at 41,045 euros excluding VAT / 48,844 euros including VAT for the C 200 Saloon.
 

Sharpened athletic design with an illuminated radiator grille for a more commanding presence
Already at first glance, the new C-Class is unmistakably a true C-Class – yet it appears more confident than ever. Mercedes-Benz has precisely sharpened the front and rear, giving the characteristic athletic silhouette a more commanding and expressive presence. The new radiator grille, illuminated for the first time, new headlamps and taillights with a star design, and powerfully sculpted bumpers make the new C-Class even more distinctive – further strengthening the C-Class’s role as a design trendsetter in its segment.
 
New front design with a distinctive lighting signature
The new radiator grille has a stronger vertical emphasis. Hot-stamped stars in a chrome look create the unmistakable Mercedes-Benz pattern and give the grille a unique three-dimensional depth. An LED light guide integrated into the chrome surround showcases the radiator grille to striking effect and gives the C-Class an even more radiant appearance. Depending on the market, the central star is also illuminated.
 
A contrasting high-gloss black panel visually connects the chrome grille with the headlamps, creating one elegant, seamless unit. The new headlamps, with star design for the daytime running lights, make the new C-Class instantly recognisable by day and by night. On the Saloon, the taillights also feature the intriguing star design.
 
This unique lighting signature enhances the impact of the athletic design and gives the new C-Class an added emotional appeal.
 
A special moment every time you get in
In the new C-Class, even getting in and out becomes a special moment. For the first time, a light projector is integrated into the side sills. When the doors are opened, the C-Class welcomes or bids farewell to its passengers by projecting a Mercedes-Benz pattern onto the ground. In addition, the exterior mirrors project the Mercedes-Benz star next to the vehicle. It is an emotional gesture that not only creates a sense of occasion, but also improves visibility at night.
 
Sporty refinement with new depth
The powerful contours of the new bumpers, with their voluminous surfaces and precise, dynamically flowing edges, sharpen the sporty character of the C-Class. High-gloss black inserts and fine chrome trim elements at the sides of the front bumper emphasise the vehicle’s width, while a chrome trim strip on the front underride guard adds an elegant touch. A newly developed 18-inch wheel along with wheel options from 17 to 19 inches accentuate the dynamic silhouette. Two new 19-inch AMG wheels are also available.
 
Two new paint finishes with emotional depth enrich the colour portfolio. They underline the classic elegance of the new C-Class while offering innovative interpretations of colour: elegant lavender silver metallic and characterful moody sky grey metallic. The latter is a subtle blue-grey shade that reveals new facets depending on the light and reflects the individuality of the driver.
 
AMG Line Plus for an especially sporty presence
For the first time, the AMG Line Plus is available for the C-Class. It builds on the AMG Line with additional design elements and makes a clear statement of performance and dynamic presence. Equipment includes, for example, a tailpipe trim and spoiler lip in high-gloss black, the Night Package, sports seats with an integral-seat look, red topstitching, and red seat belts.
 
High-quality interior and intuitive, personalised experiences with the MBUX Virtual Assistant
Mercedes-Benz has carefully evolved the interior of the new C-Class. More than ever, it constitutes a personal retreat where elegance, comfort and intelligent technology come together seamlessly. The brand promise “Welcome home” can be experienced in every detail, creating an atmosphere that appeals to all the senses. The design incorporates highlights from the new S-Class while continuing to develop the sporty DNA of the C-Class interior. The result is an elegant space that combines holistic comfort with everyday sophistication.
 
Digital cockpit with clear information and intuitive control
The digital cockpit of the new C-Class combines clarity, elegance and ease of use. The 31.2-centimetre (12.3-inch) instrument cluster presents all relevant information in high resolution. The 30.2-centimetre (11.9-inch) portrait-format centre display appears to float above the trim surface and provides access to all key vehicle functions. The new multifunction steering wheel is even more ergonomic and straightforward to use. Rocker switches operate cruise control and DISTRONIC, while a roller controls the volume. The capacitive control panels are seamlessly integrated and provide haptic feedback for better orientation. Together, digital functions and physical controls take ease of operation to a new level.
 

MBUX Virtual Assistant: A companion that thinks ahead and keeps learning
Powered by MB.OS, the new C-Class features the fourth generation of MBUX. It combines artificial intelligence (AI) from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini in the in-car infotainment system. This allows it to draw on the strengths of different models depending on the situation. With this unique multi-agent approach, the MBUX Virtual Assistant redefines the relationship between driver and vehicle. It is exceptionally intuitive and personal. Like a well-informed companion, the virtual assistant can conduct complex, multi-part conversations and retain context through short-term memory.
 
Mercedes-Benz is continuously expanding the conversational capabilities of its MBUX Virtual Assistant. It is not only highly knowledgeable when it comes to general knowledge and questions about navigation or points of interest. The MBUX Virtual Assistant can now also provide current stock prices, help with currency conversions and, in addition to weather updates, even provide information on slope conditions for a skiing holiday. It uses the latest voice technology and appears on the MBUX Zero Layer as a “living” avatar. Three avatars are currently available, enabling even more personal interaction. The entertainment experience is becoming more individual, too: if customers cannot remember a song title or artist, the MBUX Virtual Assistant can help them find it – and start playing it directly.
 
Outstanding seat comfort and high air quality
The optional multi-contour seats provide exceptional ergonomic comfort and a range of massage functions. Inflatable active cushions in the side bolsters offer excellent support, while four-way lumbar support adjusts the seat backrest individually to the spine. This allows the driver and front passenger to enjoy every journey in relaxed comfort and arrive feeling refreshed, even after long distances.
 
The optional AIR-BALANCE Package creates an individual fragrance experience and helps maintain a consistently fresh atmosphere in the interior. Ionisation enriches the cabin air with negative oxygen ions, allowing occupants to breathe fresher air. At the same time, a filtration system with a fine-particle activated charcoal filter cleans the incoming outside air and absorbs sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and aromatic hydrocarbons. The fragrance generator in the glove compartment also allows customers to use interior fragrances from the Mercedes-Benz Customer Solutions range – creating a feeling of freshness that invigorates and contributes to personal wellbeing.
 
Music enjoyment with greater spaciousness and depth
The enhanced optional Burmester® 3D Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos, 15 loudspeakers and a 710-watt amplifier takes the audio experience in the C-Class to a new level. Passengers are immersed in sound with significantly greater spaciousness and depth than before. In the “3D Sound” menu, customers can individually adjust the spatial effect in ten levels. Music playback can also be focused specifically on the first or second row of seats. Conversely, the sound can be focused on the rear seats when the driver prefers a quieter atmosphere. The new automatic selection function is particularly convenient: Using seat belt buckle detection, the sound focus is optimally adjusted according to vehicle occupancy.
 
A wide range of options for individual lighting moods
Ambient lighting also creates a distinctive atmosphere in the new C-Class. With 64 freely selectable colours and ten colour worlds, it offers the right lighting scenario for almost every mood and driving situation. Directly illuminated light lines run elegantly from the sides of the centre console across the instrument panel to the front and rear door handles, creating a warm enveloping lighting atmosphere. Brightness can be adjusted across five levels, while four dimming zones allow precise adaptation to personal preferences.
 
In addition, high-resolution ambient styles are available in a dedicated app. The background themes, designed with great attention to detail, range from calm to intense, from cool to warm and from technical to emotional. They enhance the impact of the displays and allow customers to personalise the atmosphere in the interior even further. The colours of the instrument cluster, controls and ambient lighting are harmoniously coordinated with the respective themes.
 
Intelligent interaction turns light into an active companion. An impressive welcome scenario greets occupants as they enter the vehicle. When the climate control temperature is changed, the ambient lighting provides coloured feedback. As the doors open, the system automatically adjusts the brightness. Active Blind Spot Assist uses discreet red flashing lights in the door handles to warn of other road users. The new C-Class combines emotion with attentiveness, creating an interior that actively supports its occupants.
 
New equipment colours and trim elements
Every surface, seam and material has been selected with great attention to detail. Two new upholstery colours and three new trim elements enrich the scope for individualisation. Inspired by the world of luxury fashion, warm beech brown gives the interior an elegant, homely atmosphere. It is available for ARTICO man-made leather, leather and Nappa leather. The rich shade of cherry red creates striking accents and is available for seats in ARTICO man-made leather. For the first time, leather seats in the AMG Line feature moccasin stitching on the side bolsters. On seats in Nappa leather, contrasting piping and topstitching perfectly highlight their high-quality character. The new trim elements – light open-pore birch wood, anthracite birch wood and high-gloss silver metal mixed fabric – further enhance the premium look and feel of the interior.
 

Digital Extras: Tailor-made customisation even after purchase
MB.OS enables over-the-air updates for the entire vehicle software, keeping the new C-Class up to date and attractive for years to come. Via the Mercedes-Benz Store and the Mercedes-Benz App, customers can flexibly customise their C-Class with Digital Extras even after purchase and adapt it to changing needs. The continuously growing portfolio ranges from entertainment, navigation, charging and GUARD 360° to MB.DRIVE driving and parking assistance systems. In-car payment makes paying on the move seamless. Digital Extras such as the Entertainment Package or e-vignettes can be activated and paid for directly via the Mercedes-Benz Store. This allows customers to continue their journey in a relaxed manner while the vehicle takes care of the rest. The entertainment offering currently includes more than 40 apps across various categories, including audio, video, gaming and further services.
 
New C-Class Estate: Generous load space and practical flexibility
The new C-Class Estate combines elegance with added everyday versatility. With its large and versatile load compartment, it offers greater flexibility and everyday practicality – for work, family, leisure and travel. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 490 litres. With the rear seat backrests folded down, this increases to 1,510 litres. The rear seats are split 40:20:40 as standard and can be folded down individually. The standard EASY-PACK tailgate opens and closes conveniently at the touch of a button: via the vehicle key, the switch in the driver’s door or the release handle on the tailgate. The retractable load compartment cover and partition net are designed in two parts and each stored in its own cassette. This keeps the load compartment versatile, practical and easy to use.
 
A more powerful and agile driving experience with intelligent support when it matters
The new C-Class offers exactly the powertrain choice customers need today: future-ready petrol and diesel engines as well as plug-in hybrids. This allows the new Saloon and Estate to fit seamlessly into a wide range of lifestyles – from daily commuting and long business journeys to family holidays. Mercedes-Benz has carefully developed the entire engine portfolio and prepared it for the upcoming Euro 7 emissions standard. At the same time, the chassis control has been further refined. The result: the new C-Class impresses with more power, greater efficiency and a more agile driving experience.
 
Efficiency and performance in perfect harmony
The combustion engine portfolio includes state-of-the-art high-tech four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines in various output levels. Thanks to integrated mild-hybrid technology, they deliver a new level of efficiency and performance. All engines are equipped with the second-generation integrated starter-generator (ISG 2.0), which provides up to 17 kW of additional output and 205 Nm of additional torque. It also intelligently supports the combustion engine at lower engine speeds. Together with exhaust-gas turbocharging, this ensures spontaneous response and more efficient load transitions. The 48-volt electrical system enables functions such as coasting and recuperation, helping to achieve significant fuel savings.
 
Supported by the ISG, the engines start extremely quickly and smoothly. As a result, the start-stop function is barely noticeable to the driver, as is the transition from coasting with the engine switched off to powerful propulsion under engine power. At idle, the intelligent interaction between the ISG 2.0 and the combustion engine ensures excellent smoothness. All engine variants are already designed to meet the strict requirements of upcoming legal regulations.
 
Four-cylinder petrol engine with two-litre displacement and new electric auxiliary compressor
The further developed M 254 EVO four-cylinder petrol engine has a displacement of two litres and features a newly developed electric auxiliary compressor, which delivers strong pulling power even at low engine speeds. Despite its spirited performance, the engine is economical and low in emissions. Powered by the 48-volt electrical system, the electric auxiliary compressor accelerates to very high speeds within milliseconds. It specifically bridges the delay typically associated with the turbocharger (turbo lag) and creates a linear power delivery, especially when moving off, accelerating out of corners or performing intermediate sprints.
 
In the new C-Class, the petrol engine is available in three output levels. In the most powerful model C 300, it delivers 190 kW (258 hp) and rated torque of 400 Nm. In the C 250, it develops 160 kW (218 hp) and maximum torque of 320 Nm, while the C 200 offers 130 kW (177 hp) and 270 Nm.
 
The C-Class as a plug-in hybrid: All-electric driving, coasting and recuperation
The plug-in hybrid models of the C-Class combine the further developed four-cylinder petrol engine with a powerful electric motor and are available with rear-wheel drive as well as all-wheel drive. The C 400 e 4MATIC Saloon and the C 400 e 4MATIC Estate deliver a system output of up to 290 kW (395 hp) and system torque of up to 650 Nm. The high-voltage battery, with a usable energy content of 19.53 kWh, enables an electric range of up to 100 kilometres according to WLTP. This means most daily journeys can be completed on electric power alone. The plug-in hybrids can be charged with up to 11 kW at AC charging points, such as a home wallbox, and – particularly convenient for everyday use – with up to 55 kW at public DC fast-charging stations.
 
Four-cylinder diesel engine compatible with biofuels
The further developed four-cylinder diesel engine (OM 654 EVO) provides generous power delivery and is available in two output variants with 120 kW (163 hp) and 147 kW (200 hp). A variable-turbine-geometry turbocharger and 2,200-bar common-rail direct injection optimise response, combustion, emissions and consumption while being compatible with HVO100, B10 and B20 biofuels.
 
Fine-tuned suspension for greater sporty driving pleasure
The new C-Class is noticeably more agile and offers even more driving pleasure on winding roads. Mercedes-Benz has specifically optimised the suspension for greater dynamism while maintaining a high level of long-distance comfort. A stiffer connection and newly tuned adjustable damping reduce body movements and allow the C-Class to respond more directly, precisely and confidently. Precise guidance of the front wheels by four links on each side makes a significant contribution to the car’s dynamic handling. At the rear axle, a multi-link design with a five-link concept ensures high wheel guidance quality and stable straight-line performance. In this way, the new C-Class combines greater driving enjoyment with the assured composure that makes long journeys so comfortable.
 

Rear-axle steering for greater agility and everyday comfort
Building on its predecessor, the new C-Class continues to offer rear-axle steering. Still rare in this segment, this technology further enhances agility and manoeuvrability to a level more typical of higher vehicle classes. With a steering angle of up to 2.5 degrees, it reduces the turning circle by 43 centimetres to 10.64 metres. Thanks to the more direct steering ratio at the front axle, the driver needs fewer turns of the steering wheel from lock to lock.
 
At speeds below 100 km/h, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This virtually shortens the wheelbase depending on the situation, making the vehicle more manoeuvrable, light-footed and agile. At speeds above 100 km/h, the rear wheels steer in the same direction as the front wheels. The resulting virtually extended wheelbase offers noticeable benefits: increased driving stability and safety at high speeds, during rapid lane changes or sudden evasive manoeuvres. In addition, dynamic manoeuvres require significantly less steering input. The new C-Class responds more sportily to steering commands, supported by the integrated driving dynamics control of ESP®.
 
Exceptionally quiet interior
The established high level of noise and vibration comfort has been further improved through numerous detailed measures. The sophisticated aerodynamics – with a drag coefficient from 0.24 for the Saloon and from 0.26 for the Estate – reduce wind noise at source, supported by the redesigned exterior mirrors with aeroacoustically optimised mirror bases. The aerodynamic design of the trailing edge of the boot lid, including the integrated spoiler contour, as well as lateral separation edges in the taillights, minimise turbulence and the associated noise. An additional seal on the windscreen further reduces wind noise. The exhaust system is now suspended in a cage-type arrangement which noticeably reduces the transmission of vibrations. Further developed insulation packages and targeted acoustic measures contribute to the quiet interior environment – even under acceleration and at higher speeds. For customers, this means greater calm and relaxation on every journey.
 
Advanced navigation with visual support
With MBUX Surround Navigation, visual interaction also reaches a new level. Supported by cameras and sensors, it seamlessly combines a real-time 3D representation of the surroundings and route guidance with directional arrows with the driver assistance view. Other road users, such as cars, bicycles, motorbikes and pedestrians, are also displayed. Drivers benefit from improved situational awareness because they can see what the C-Class sees, and how the assistance systems are providing support.
 
For the first time, augmented-reality navigation from the S-Class and EQS is also available in the new C-Class. In addition to classic head-up display content such as speed, warnings and speed limits, this intuitive augmented-reality support helps drivers anticipate and handle complex driving manoeuvres with greater ease. Relevant information and actions are displayed three-dimensionally within the real driving environment.
 
Familiar route guidance: Intelligent navigation based on Google Maps
In the new C-Class, the navigation experience is based on Google Maps. Developed as part of the partnership between Google and Mercedes-Benz, this navigation solution introduces innovative functionality. It is among the first systems to integrate the new Automotive AI Agent from Google Cloud for in-car conversational services, seamlessly combined with Google Maps. In conversation with the MBUX Virtual Assistant, users can now also search for charging stations and parking spaces and receive information including availability.
 
State-of-the-art driving and parking assistance systems with MB.DRIVE
The new C-Class is equipped with up to 10 cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors to provide first-class driving support. These sensors work together with a powerful control unit that uses MB.OS as its central software platform. Artificial intelligence algorithms trained on large volumes of fleet data process the sensor information to build a precise understanding of the surrounding traffic situation.
 
Depending on the selected package, MB.DRIVE can assist with steering, lane keeping, maintaining distance, braking and accelerating. Among the pioneering optional assistance functions is MB.DRIVE ASSIST with Lane Change Assist, which performs a lane change after a simple tap on the indicator stalk. Building on this, MB.DRIVE ASSIST PLUS can support the driver in complex traffic situations, such as slowing the vehicle before stop signs and at red lights. MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO takes relaxed driving to an entirely new level. The system enables a seamless point-to-point driving experience – even in dense urban traffic. Market launch of this function is initially planned for China.
 
Manoeuvring Assist can brake the vehicle to a standstill when reversing at low speeds if the system detects an imminent collision. For greater safety when reversing out of a parking space, the assistant warns of detected obstacles and crossing traffic. Trailer Manoeuvring Assist makes driving with trailers easier by providing steering assistance. Integrated articulation angle protection can help prevent a collision between the vehicle and trailer. The Parking Package with 360° camera is also available for the new C-Class. The system makes finding a parking space, parking and unparking easier: it detects suitable parking spaces and assists when entering and leaving them.
 
The new Digital Extra “Reverse function” enables the vehicle, under certain conditions, to automatically reverse along part of the route previously driven forwards. While this assistant is active, the image from the reversing camera and a graphic representation of the planned path are shown on the central display. This is particularly helpful in traffic situations where turning manoeuvres are not possible.
 
Brighter and more efficient: DIGITAL LIGHT with micro-LED technology
With the next generation of DIGITAL LIGHT (optional equipment), the new C-Class offers improved visibility and enhanced safety. Innovative micro-LED technology and a new high-performance chip expand the high-resolution illumination field by around 40 percent. At the same time, energy consumption is reduced by up to 50 percent compared with the previous system. All software modules are integrated into MB.OS. The ULTRA RANGE high beam can now swivel dynamically for optimum illumination. The partial high-beam function improves the detection of poorly lit road users without dazzling others. At the same time, the cornering light adapts precisely to the course of the road.