2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class arrives with mild-hybrid turbo-4, simplified trim levels
A redesigned 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan was revealed in February, and on Tuesday we learned new details about the versions will get in the United States.
Due in the first half of 2022, the revamped sedan will arrive with mild-hybrid 4-cylinder power, a luxurious cabin with the latest infotainment, and larger dimensions. A wagon will also be offered in some markets, though sadly not the United States.
The exterior styling is an evolution of the outgoing model. Changes to the proportions only accentuate the long hood, short deck, and low-slung stance. We see elements of the redesigned 2021 S-Class in the roofline and character lines, while the CLA-Class contributes its grille and two-piece taillights.
Mercedes has made the C-Class friendlier for occupants by increasing its size. It’s 2.5 inches longer, 0.4 inches wider, and the wheelbase has grown by an inch. It does sit 0.5 inches lower, though, for a sleeker look. Interior dimensions have grown in most measurements, most notably in rear leg room (0.8 inches) and rear shoulder room (0.5 inches). The trunk has a generous 17.9 cubic feet of volume.
The sole model at launch will be the C300, available with the choice of rear- or all-wheel drive. Power in this model will come from a 2.0-liter engine that makes 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque on its own, and is augmented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that can add another 20 hp and 148 lb-ft for short blasts. Mercedes quotes a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds and top speed of 130 mph.
In other markets, plug-in hybrid and diesel options will be available. It’s likely a plug-in hybrid will be made available in the U.S. eventually, though we can forget about a diesel. Interestingly, Mercedes has confirmed that the next C63 from AMG, which is still out testing, will skip the current model’s V-8 in favor of a 4-cylinder-based plug-in hybrid setup good for around 643 hp.
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
A new, lighter 9-speed automatic is the only transmission for the C-Class, and Mercedes drops the air suspension in favor of a standard multi-link independent suspension with adaptive dampers. A sport-tuned version of the suspension comes in the AMG Line package.
Speaking of packages, Mercedes is grouping many of its popular options into three trim levels—Premium, Exclusive and Pinnacle—to help simplify the ordering process. Even the base Premium trim comes fully equipped as standard, thanks to items such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch (with portrait layout) infotainment screen, MBUX operating system (now with twice the processing power), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, 18-inch wheels, and a sunroof. Also included as standard is a good set of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, rear park assist, a driver-attention monitor, and adaptive LED headlights.
The Exclusive trim includes all of the features of the Premium trim but adds a Burmester audio system, wireless charging pad for mobile devices, ambient lighting, and the definitely handy park assist and surround-view camera features.
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The top Pinnacle trim includes all of the features of the lower two trims while adding Mercedes’ own navigation system, plus a head-up display with augmented reality. Naturally, there are still available options even at this level. Some worthwhile options include a heated steering wheel (should really be standard), panorama roof, additional USB ports, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an AMG styling pack.
Mercedes has not yet announced prices, but the 2022 C-Class should cost roughly the same as the 2021 model, which starts around $43,000. Also yet to be announced are replacements for the C-Class coupe and convertible.
For more on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, read the in-depth reviews at The Car Connection.
