2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

Mar 9, 2025, 6:49pm ET

The C-Class Coupe is Mercedes-Benz's sporty derivative of its C-Class Sedan. It brings the performance, luxury, and head-turning style of the bigger E-Class and S-Class Coupe models to the compact segment.

Overview

As with its sedan counterpart, the C-Class Coupe has grown both in length and in width for this latest generation. Those added dimensions have directly benefited the C-Class Coupe's passenger volume, although rear seat space remains cramped for full-sized adults.

The C-Class Coupe rides on an all-new rear-wheel drive platform that is lighter and more rigid than the architecture it replaces. Although the previous C-Class Coupe was available with rear-drive only, this current version can be had with Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive for all-weather traction.

Life Aboard

The C-Class Coupe largely borrows its interior design from the C-Class Sedan. That means an up-scale cabin highlighted by a high-mounted LCD screen running Mercedes' latest COMAND infotainment system. COMAND is controlled via a wheel knob and touchpad located on the center console.

In order to provide as much interior volume as possible, Mercedes has moved the C-Class' passenger's side speaker from the door panel to within the footwell, thereby increasing legroom. Mercedes has also increased the storage space in the C-Class Coupe's center cubby area.

Mercedes' MB Tex simulated leather comes as standard in the C-Class Coupe, but buyers can upgrade to the genuine article. A number of trim finishes are available, including piano black and matte wood.

Unlike the C-Class Sedan's three-abreast rear seating, the C-Class Coupe can only be had as a 2+2. Trunk space is also down by 2.1 cubic feet to 10.5 cubic feet in the Coupe.

Model Lineup

The lone model currently in the C-Class Coupe lineup is the C300. It's powered by a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine good for 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Shifting through a nine-speed automatic transmission, the C300 can hit 60 from a standstill in 5.9 seconds. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but 4MATIC all-wheel drive can be specified for an additional charge.

Standard equipment on the C300 includes power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a panoramic sunroof.

Optional Equipment

For those craving a sportier ride without stepping up to the AMG models, the C300 can be had with a Sport Package that adds an AMG body kit, 18-inch AMG wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes. A Night Package can be ordered on top of the Sport Package, adding 18-inch black wheels and Gloss Black exterior accents.

An AIRMATIC package can also be ordered on the C300, replacing the car's standard metal springs with a full air suspension. The AIRMATIC upgrade comes with a multimode drive program that ranges from Comfort to Sport+.

Other notable options include navigation, a head-up display, heated and cooled seats, Mercedes' KEYLESS-GO system and a Burmester premium audio system.

Occupant Safety

On the safety front the C300 comes standard with dual front airbags, along with front row side airbags and side curtain airbags. Available safety equipment includes a rear-view camera, electronic parking aid, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and second row side airbags.

Key Competitors

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe squares off directly against the BMW 4 Series, the Audi A5, the Cadillac ATS Coupe, and the Lexus RC. Buyers could also compare the C-Class Coupe against Mercedes' own CLA four-door coupe.