The 2018 Benz C-Class continues to impress with its range of engine options, from the efficient base turbo-4 to the exhilarating AMG variants. As experts in Mercedes-Benz repair at mercedesxentry.store, we delve into the performance aspects of the C-Class 2018, focusing primarily on the widely favored base turbo-4 model.
Base Engine Performance: C300
The entry-level 2018 Benz C-Class starts with the C300, available across all body styles. At its heart is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering a robust 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. For the 2018 model year, this engine is paired with a smooth and responsive 9-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes-Benz states that this combination reduces the 0-60 mph acceleration time to a brisk 5.8 seconds. However, the numbers only tell part of the story. The true essence of the base Benz C300 lies in its agile and responsive feel. It shares some of the dynamic spirit found in the high-performance CLA45 AMG, offering ample low-end boost and immediate power delivery. While it may lack the aggressive exhaust note and high-revving nature of the AMG models, the C300 provides substantial power for a base model, available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.
Exploring Electrified Performance: C350e Plug-in Hybrid
For those seeking a blend of efficiency and performance, the 2018 Benz C-Class offered the C350e plug-in hybrid. This model combines the same 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine with electric power to produce a combined output of 275 horsepower. While we haven’t had the opportunity to extensively test this model, it represents Mercedes-Benz’s step towards electrification in the C-Class range.
C350e Hybrid System Details
The Mercedes-Benz C350e plug-in hybrid strategically places a 60-kilowatt (80-hp) electric motor between the 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission. This configuration results in the combined 275 hp output. One notable characteristic of this system is that it doesn’t offer electric idle creep when stopped with the engine off, which may require a brief adjustment for drivers accustomed to traditional automatics or other hybrid systems. The electric motor provides some initial acceleration, but it is not designed for extended purely electric driving under heavy load. In situations demanding more than moderate power, such as highway on-ramp acceleration, the system will typically engage the gasoline engine.
Despite its hybrid nature, the EPA estimates the C350e’s all-electric range at a modest 8 miles of continuous driving, or 9 miles total. Furthermore, the fuel economy improvement over the standard C300 is only around 10 percent. Based on these figures, the C350e’s hybrid system offered limited real-world electric driving benefits for the 2018 model year compared to advancements seen in later models.
AMG Performance Variants: C43 and C63
For enthusiasts craving high performance, the 2018 Benz C-Class AMG lineup delivers with the C43 and C63 models.
AMG C43: Twin-Turbo V6 Power
The AMG C43 steps up the performance with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine. This powerplant generates 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, significantly boosting the C-Class’s acceleration capabilities. The C43 can launch from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, providing strong and responsive acceleration across its 9-speed transmission’s gear range. The engine note is carefully tuned to balance exhaust and induction sounds, creating a refined yet sporty V-6 AMG sound. Standard with rear-wheel drive, the C43 also offers an available all-wheel-drive system with a rear-biased 33/67 torque distribution and electronic torque vectoring for enhanced handling.
AMG C63: The Ultimate V8 Experience
For the pinnacle of 2018 Benz C-Class performance, the AMG C63 is the definitive choice. It features a potent twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine, available in two output levels. The standard C63 trim produces 469 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, while the higher-output C63 S variant cranks out 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both C63 models send power exclusively to the rear wheels through a 7-speed paddle-shifted dual-clutch transmission, the only dual-clutch transmission in the 2018 C-Class range. The C63 S achieves a blistering 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. Accompanied by the signature roar of a V-8 engine, the AMG C63 delivers an exhilarating driving experience that commands attention. It’s a true performance machine that offers thrilling power and dynamic handling.
Ride and Handling Dynamics of the 2018 Benz C-Class
The 2018 Benz C-Class demonstrates significant advancements in ride and handling, closing the gap with competitors known for their sporty dynamics. Its electric variable-ratio steering system offers precise control, responsive feedback, and a quick steering ratio, enhancing the driver’s connection to the road.
Suspension and Driving Modes
The C-Class chassis features an independent suspension system, which can be further enhanced with optional air springs and continuously variable damping shocks. These adaptive suspension components, combined with selectable driving modes—Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Sport+—allow drivers to tailor the car’s ride and handling characteristics to their preferences and driving conditions.
In all modes, the air suspension option delivers a composed and comfortable ride while effectively minimizing body roll in corners. This balance of comfort and agility is well-suited to the nature of a sport sedan, particularly the AMG C43 and C63 models.
AMG Enhanced Handling
The AMG models take handling to an even higher level. Driving impressions of the AMG C63 S Coupe have highlighted its superior steering feel, attributed to a wider track and retuned power steering assist that provides substantial heft and feedback.
A key strength of the AMG models is their surprisingly compliant ride quality, making them suitable for daily driving. Variable dampers continuously adjust to road conditions, while the C43’s all-wheel-drive system with its 33/67 power split and electronic locking differential further enhances handling dynamics. The C63, with its rear-wheel-drive configuration, offers a more traditional sports car driving experience. AMG models also feature upgraded brakes, and the C43 includes five transmission modes, including a manual mode with rev-matching, and a sport exhaust system for a more aggressive sound.
The tire setup on AMG models, such as the Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires (255/35ZR19 front and 285/30ZR20 rear on the C63 S), provide ample grip and contribute to the car’s overall handling prowess. While these tires offer excellent performance, some comparisons suggest that tires on competitors like the Cadillac ATS-V might offer even stickier compound options.
Overall Driving Experience
In conclusion, the AMG versions of the 2018 Benz C-Class exhibit a more cohesive and sharper driving experience compared to the standard C-Class models and even some competitors from BMW. They represent a significant step up in performance and handling, providing enthusiasts with a compelling blend of luxury and sportiness.
