The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has long been the entry point into the prestigious world of Mercedes-Benz ownership in the U.S. The 2008 upgrade significantly modernized this model, making it a strong contender in the semi-sporty small luxury sedan segment. We’ve previously explored the virtues of the C300 Sport and the high-performance C63 AMG. Now, we delve into the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 to assess its appeal in today’s used car market.
But our experience with the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 test model highlighted the importance of careful option selection. The necessity of the C350’s larger 3.5-liter V-6 engine, compared to the adequate 3.0-liter V-6 in the C300, came into question. Furthermore, the absence of the navigation system in our test vehicle exposed us to what might be the most frustrating iPod integration system available. The car was equipped with 18-inch AMG wheels, an expense that perhaps could have been better allocated to enhance the in-cabin technology.
C350 vs. C300: Decoding the Performance Difference
According to Mercedes-Benz’s official figures, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, a mere second quicker than the C300. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine in the C350 delivers 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, compared to the C300’s 228 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque.
While the C350 is undeniably faster, the real-world difference is less pronounced. The C350 is exclusively paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Although Mercedes-Benz has refined automatic transmissions to offer a responsive, almost manual-like experience, the inherent smoothness of a torque converter can slightly dampen the sensation of raw engine power.
The C300, in contrast, offers a choice between the same seven-speed automatic and a more engaging six-speed manual transmission, appealing to driving purists. In the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350, a console button allows switching between Comfort and Sport modes, sharpening gear changes for a more dynamic feel. Manual gear selection is also available via shifter movement, providing reasonably quick shifts. However, the performance gap between the C300 and C350 in everyday driving scenarios isn’t dramatically significant.
Driving Dynamics: Balanced and Composed
Both the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 and C300 share the same sophisticated suspension system: a four-wheel independent setup with stabilizer bars front and rear, and anti-dive control. This setup ensures excellent composure during spirited cornering in both models. The C350’s additional torque might suggest a noticeable advantage when accelerating out of corners, but in practice, the C350 doesn’t exhibit a significantly superior edge in handling compared to the C300.
Fuel economy is naturally impacted by the larger engine in the C350, but the difference is minimal, with an EPA rating of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Our testing yielded an average of 20.1 mpg in mixed driving conditions and over 24 mpg on extended highway journeys, demonstrating respectable fuel efficiency for a V6 luxury sedan.
Cabin Technology: A Tale of Two Interfaces
The standard cabin electronics in the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 are where compromises become apparent. Instead of a large navigation screen, the base configuration features a smaller LCD screen concealed under a dashboard hatch, along with the familiar Mercedes-Benz COMAND controller on the center console.
Our test car included the optional iPod integration kit, utilizing a pigtail connector in the glove compartment. However, accessing and controlling an iPod through this system proved to be remarkably unintuitive. Locating the auxiliary input required navigating through the COMAND interface.
While music playback was achievable, the system lacked any on-screen interface for music selection. The currently playing track was relegated to a small display within the speedometer cluster, shared with trip computer and audio information. Steering wheel controls offered sequential track skipping, but accessing artists and albums required a convoluted process involving the phone hang-up button – a truly bizarre and user-unfriendly design.
This iPod integration feels like an afterthought, especially considering the seamless functionality of satellite radio and CD displays on the car’s LCD. Fortunately, Mercedes-Benz offers solutions for a vastly improved user experience. Opting for the navigation system upgrades the screen size and includes the Music Register, an onboard music storage feature. This option provides a proper on-screen interface for both iPod and Music Register libraries. Alternatively, the more affordable COMAND package offers the larger screen and enhanced interface, but without navigation or Music Register.
Another worthwhile upgrade, absent in our test vehicle, is the Harmon Kardon Logic7 stereo system, featuring a 450-watt amplifier and 10 speakers. Without this upgrade, the standard eight-speaker system delivers a rather underwhelming audio experience.
A standard hands-free Bluetooth phone system is included, offering average functionality without any standout features. It includes an onboard phone book, requiring contact transfer from a phone to the car.
Conclusion: A Tech-Dependent Decision
When equipped with the optional navigation system and upgraded audio, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 transforms into a capable and enjoyable luxury sedan with sporting inclinations. It earns a respectable rating as a well-rounded vehicle. However, without these key technology options, the C350 becomes a less compelling proposition – a somewhat mundane semi-luxury sedan hampered by a frustrating iPod interface. The mechanical aspects remain strong, with a reasonably potent engine offering near-four-cylinder fuel economy. The selectable Comfort and Sport driving modes are a welcome feature, adding versatility to the driving experience.
For potential buyers considering a used 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350, carefully assess the installed options, particularly concerning cabin technology. A well-optioned C350 can still offer a satisfying blend of luxury and performance, while a base model may leave tech-savvy drivers wanting more.
Spec Box
| Model | 2010 Mercedes-Benz C-class |
|---|---|
| Trim | C350 Sport |
| Power train | 3.5-liter V-6 |
| EPA fuel economy | 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway |
| Observed fuel economy | 20.1 mpg |
| Navigation | Optional hard drive-based |
| Bluetooth phone support | Standard |
| Disc player | MP3-compatible single CD |
| MP3 player support | iPod integration |
| Other digital audio | Onboard hard drive (with navigation option), USB port, satellite radio |
| Audio system | 8 speaker standard, 5.1 channel Harmon Kardon optional |
| Driver aids | Rear view camera |
| Base price | $39,750 |
| Price as tested | $42,020 |
