The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300 marked a significant step in the evolution of the C-Class, blending luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology into a compelling package. As a popular model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the C 300 offered a refined driving experience and a host of standard and optional features designed to cater to discerning drivers. This article delves into the standard equipment, performance metrics, safety features, and available packages for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering this model.
Standard Equipment: Comfort and Convenience
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300 was generously equipped with comfort and convenience features right from the base model. Both the C 300 and the C 300 4MATIC versions came standard with Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control, ensuring personalized comfort for both the driver and passenger. Power front seats with driver memory allowed for customized seating positions, while the audio system with a single-disc CD player, USB port with iPod interface, Bluetooth audio streaming, and HD Radio provided a range of entertainment options.
For seamless connectivity, a Bluetooth interface for hands-free phone use was standard, along with a central controller paired with a 7-inch high-mounted display. The driver benefited from a multifunction leather steering wheel, a color instrument cluster display, and power tilt & telescoping steering column. Practical features like front and rear cupholders, electronic cruise control, power windows with express up and down, and automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting added to the convenience.
Further enhancing the driving experience were features such as a trip computer, auto-dimming driver and rearview mirror, power folding mirrors, an integrated garage door opener, and intermittent wipers with a rain sensor. Split-folding rear seats offered versatility for cargo and passenger needs, while the touchpad interface provided modern control over vehicle functions. KEYLESS-START and AGILITY SELECT, which allows drivers to choose between different driving modes, were also standard.
Notably, Heated Front Seats, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, Burmester Premium Sound system, LED Headlights, and KEYLESS-GO were available as optional upgrades for those seeking an even more luxurious experience in their 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300.
Performance and Handling: Engine and Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300 boasted a responsive 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine. This powerplant delivered 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque between 1,300 and 4,000 rpm, ensuring brisk acceleration and ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The engine’s maximum speed reached 6,500 rpm, and the top speed was electronically limited to 130 mph.
Both the C 300 and C 300 4MATIC variants utilized a 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic transmission with Touch Shift, providing smooth and efficient gear changes. The ECO Start/Stop system was standard across the range, contributing to fuel efficiency. The C 300 came with a rear-wheel-drive configuration, while the C 300 4MATIC featured the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive system for enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
The chassis of the 2015 C 300 was designed for a balance of comfort and agility. It featured a 4-link front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. The C 300 models were equipped with single-piston floating front and rear brakes, while the C 400 4MATIC (included for comparison in the original data) upgraded to four-piston fixed caliper front brakes. The C 300 models rolled on 225/50 R17 all-season front tires and 245/45 R17 all-season rear tires. A dual exhaust system with two chrome outlets added a touch of sporty styling.
Safety and Security: Advanced Protection
Mercedes-Benz has long been synonymous with safety, and the 2015 C 300 upheld this reputation with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features. Standard safety equipment included a New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty and a 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program, providing peace of mind for owners. The Mercedes-Benz Maintenance System also contributed to long-term vehicle care.
The C 300’s structure incorporated a high-strength steel reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones, and a Supplemental Restraint System with occupant sensor. 3-Point seat belts with pretensioners & dual-stage belt force limiters, front dual-stage airbags, combination thorax/pelvis side airbags for driver and front passenger, front and rear side window airbags, and a driver knee airbag offered extensive occupant protection. ISOFIX anchor and tether system for child seats was also standard.
Electronic safety systems were abundant, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR). ATTENTION ASSIST Driver Drowsiness Monitor, Anti-Theft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer, SmartKey with Panic Button, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, PRE-SAFE anticipatory safety system, and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) PLUS all came standard, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety innovation in the 2015 C 300.
Options and Packages: Personalizing Your C 300
Beyond the generous standard equipment, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300 offered a wide array of options and packages to allow buyers to personalize their vehicles.
Paint and Upholstery: A variety of paint options were available, including standard Black and Polar White, and metallic options like Dakota Brown, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Lunar Blue, Obsidian Black, and Diamond Silver. The designo Diamond White metallic paint was a premium option. Upholstery choices ranged from MB-Tex (synthetic leather) to genuine leather in colors like Black, Silk Beige/Black, Ash Grey/Deep Sea Blue, Ash Grey/Black, Silk Beige/Espresso, and Cranberry Red/Black.
Trim Options: Interior trim choices included Aluminum/High-Gloss Black, optional Open-Pore Black Ash Wood, Burl Walnut Wood, and Linden Wood, allowing for customization of the cabin’s ambiance.
Package Highlights: Several key packages bundled popular options together:
- Premium Package: This highly desirable package included LED Headlights, SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio, Burmester Premium Sound system, Heated Front Seats, and KEYLESS-GO.
- Luxury Package: Offered a more traditional luxury appearance with 17″ Split 5-Spoke Wheels, Comfort Suspension, a Luxury Grill with ‘Standing Star’, Burl Walnut Trim or Brown Fineline Trim, and a Dash with MB-Tex.
- Lighting Package: Enhanced visibility with Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Dynamic LED Headlamps (often requiring the Premium Package).
- Multimedia Package: Upgraded the infotainment system with COMAND Navigation, a larger 8.4″ High Resolution LCD Screen, navigation map updates, a rearview camera, and more.
- Sport Package: Gave the C 300 a more athletic character with AMG wheels (18″ or 19″), Sports Suspension, AMG Bodystyling, Black Ash Wood Open Pore Trim, Black Headliner, Sports Seats, a Flat Bottom Sport Steering Wheel, and more.
- AIR BALANCE Package: Introduced fragrance, ionization, and filtration to the cabin environment.
- AIRMATIC Package: Added AGILITY SELECT Adjustable Suspension and AIRMATIC Air Suspension for adjustable ride comfort and handling.
- Interior Package: Focused on cabin luxury with Leather Upholstery, Ventilated Seats, Ambient Lighting, Power Passenger Seat with Memory, and Illuminated Door Sills (often requiring the Premium Package).
- Driver Assistance Package: Incorporated advanced driver aids like DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and more.
- Hands-Free Access Package: Added Hands-Free Trunk Access and an Electronic Trunk Closer (often requiring the Premium Package or KEYLESS-GO).
Conclusion
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300 presented a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology in the compact sedan segment. Its comprehensive standard equipment list, powerful yet efficient engine, and available array of options and packages made it a highly desirable vehicle for a wide range of buyers. Whether prioritizing comfort, performance, or advanced technology, the 2015 C 300 offered a configuration to meet diverse needs and preferences, solidifying its position as a benchmark in its class.
