The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 stands out as the sport-oriented sedan within the C-Class lineup. Building upon the foundation of the C-Class, the C350 delivers enhanced performance and a curated selection of premium features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and driving dynamics. Let’s delve into the specifics of what makes the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 a noteworthy vehicle.
Standard Features of the 2013 C350 Sedan
The C350 sedan arrives in Sport guise, signifying its performance focus right from the start. It incorporates a range of standard features designed to enhance both comfort and driving pleasure. Externally, the C350 is equipped with 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, and distinctive LED running lights, ensuring both style and visibility. Automatic wipers and a sunroof add to the convenience and open-air enjoyment.
Inside the cabin, the C350 prioritizes comfort and technology. Cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, and auto-dimming mirrors contribute to a relaxed driving experience. Eight-way power front seats, complete with adjustable lumbar support, ensure optimal seating position for both driver and passenger. The seats are upholstered in durable and refined MB-Tex vinyl. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel further allows for personalized driving ergonomics.
Technologically, the 2013 C350 is well-appointed. A 5.8-inch central display serves as the hub for the COMAND interface, managing various vehicle functions. mbrace2 telematics/smartphone integration provides connected services, while Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity ensures seamless integration of personal devices. For in-car entertainment, a sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack, USB audio jack, and HD radio is standard.
Notably, the Premium 1 package is standard on the C350 sedan. This package elevates the standard features with four-way adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, heated front seats for enhanced comfort in colder climates, driver memory functions to recall preferred seat and mirror settings, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and convenient split-folding rear seats for increased cargo versatility. Audiophiles will appreciate the inclusion of a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface, providing a superior listening experience.
Available Options and Packages for the C350
While the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 is generously equipped as standard, a variety of optional packages and stand-alone features allow for further customization to individual preferences.
For those seeking a more aggressive aesthetic and performance edge, the Sport package is available. This package upgrades the wheels to 18-inch AMG wheels and adds a rear spoiler for a sportier exterior profile. Inside, black upholstery with red accent stitching, sport seats and steering wheel, shift paddles for manual gear control, aluminum trim, red seatbelts, and black floor mats with red leather piping create a distinctly sporty ambiance.
Technology upgrades are available through packages such as the Multimedia package, which enhances the infotainment system with a larger 7-inch central infotainment screen, a rearview camera for easier parking and maneuvering, a navigation system to guide your journeys, and a six-disc CD changer for expanded music options.
Enhanced visibility and safety are offered through the Lighting package, which includes adaptive bi-xenon headlights with washers and automatic high beams, optimizing illumination in various driving conditions. The Lane Tracking package adds driver assistance features like a blind-spot warning system and a lane-departure warning system to enhance safety on the road. For a more comprehensive suite of driver aids, the Driver Assistance package incorporates lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control for maintaining a set distance from the vehicle ahead, and PreSafe brake, an active braking system that can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is deemed imminent and the driver doesn’t respond to warnings.
Luxury enhancements are available with the Full Leather Seating package (excluding the C63 AMG). This package elevates the interior with extended leather trim, additional passenger seat adjustments, and passenger seat memory functions, creating an even more opulent cabin environment.
Stand-alone options offer further personalization, including a rearview camera (available separately), a panoramic sunroof (on the sedan), a power rear sunshade for rear passenger comfort, keyless ignition/entry for added convenience, and the Parktronic advanced parking sensor system to simplify parking in tight spaces.
C350 Compared to Other 2013 C-Class Models
The 2013 C-Class range includes models like the C250 and C300 4Matic, each with its own characteristics. The C250 and C300 4Matic, in sedan form, are offered in Luxury and Sport sub-trims, primarily differing in wheel design, suspension tuning, and subtle styling elements. The C300 4Matic distinguishes itself with standard all-wheel drive (4Matic) and a V6 engine, while the C250 features a smaller engine and rear-wheel drive.
The C63 AMG represents the high-performance pinnacle of the 2013 C-Class. While sharing comfort and convenience features with the C350, the C63 AMG boasts significant performance upgrades, including a more powerful engine, 18-inch wheels with high-performance tires, an adaptive sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, sport seats, and aggressive styling cues. For C63 AMG owners seeking even greater performance, the AMG Development package is available, increasing horsepower and top speed.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 effectively bridges the gap between the standard C-Class models and the high-performance C63 AMG. It offers a more potent engine than the C250 and C300 while maintaining a focus on refined sportiness and a comprehensive set of standard luxury and technology features.
Conclusion
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 is a compelling option in the luxury sport sedan segment. Its standard inclusion of the Premium 1 package, combined with its more powerful V6 engine and sporty demeanor, makes it a well-rounded vehicle. Whether you prioritize performance, luxury features, or a balance of both, the 2013 C350 offers a sophisticated and engaging driving experience within the esteemed Mercedes-Benz C-Class family.
