The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has long been synonymous with luxury, performance, and sophisticated engineering. Among its esteemed lineup, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 stands out as a compelling entry point, blending exhilarating power with refined comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned Mercedes enthusiast or considering your first foray into premium vehicles, understanding the nuances of the C300 is crucial. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifications, features, and options that define the 2017 C300, ensuring you have all the information needed to appreciate this exceptional automobile.
Exploring the 2017 C300 Trims and Configurations
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 offers a versatile range of body styles and configurations to suit diverse preferences. The foundational C300 trim boasts a potent turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering a dynamic driving experience. For enhanced all-weather capability, the C300 4Matic variant incorporates all-wheel drive, providing superior traction and control.
Beyond drivetrain options, the C300 is available in three distinct body styles:
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Sedan: The classic four-door configuration, offering a balance of elegance and practicality. Within the sedan range, you can further personalize your C300 with Sport or Luxury sub-trims. These subtle distinctions encompass variations in suspension tuning, wheel designs, and styling accents, allowing you to tailor the vehicle to your aesthetic and driving preferences. Notably, opting for the Luxury package allows you to showcase the iconic stand-up Mercedes-Benz hood star, a hallmark of the brand’s heritage.
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Coupe: For those seeking a sportier silhouette, the C300 coupe presents a sleek two-door design without compromising on luxury or performance.
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Convertible: Embrace open-air freedom with the C300 convertible, featuring a power-folding fabric top that seamlessly transforms the car from a refined coupe to an exhilarating open-top cruiser.
Unpacking the Standard Equipment of the 2017 C300
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 is generously equipped with a host of standard features designed to elevate your driving experience. Across all body styles, you can expect:
- 17-inch wheels (18-inch standard on coupe)
- Automatic wipers
- Rearview camera (optional on coupe)
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power-adjustable steering wheel
- 10-way power front seats with 4-way lumbar support
- Driver-seat memory settings
- MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery
- 40/20/40-split folding rear seatbacks
- COMAND infotainment system with a 7-inch central display screen
- Console-mounted dial controller
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Audio system with CD player, dual USB ports, SD card reader, and HD radio
Convertible models further enhance the standard equipment list with:
- Power-folding fabric top
- Mercedes’ Airscarf system for neck and shoulder warming
- Removable wind blocker
- Blind-spot monitor
Exploring Optional Packages to Personalize Your C300
Mercedes-Benz offers a range of optional packages for the 2017 C300, allowing you to tailor the vehicle to your specific desires for comfort, technology, and safety.
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Premium 1 Package: This popular package enhances convenience and safety with blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and push-button start, and satellite radio. For coupe and convertible models, it also includes an upgraded Burmester sound system.
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Premium 2 Package (Sedan): Building upon Premium 1, this package adds LED headlamps and the premium sound system. For coupe and convertible, this package is equivalent to the Sedan’s Premium 3.
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Premium 3 Package (Sedan): This package significantly upgrades the technology offerings with an electronic trunk closer, voice controls, ambient interior lighting, an upgraded 8.4-inch screen with navigation, and a touchpad infotainment controller. For coupe and convertible, this package is equivalent to the Sedan’s Premium 4.
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Premium 4 Package (Sedan): At the pinnacle of technology packages for the sedan, Premium 4 incorporates advanced active safety and collision mitigation features, adaptive cruise control, a cabin air purification and fragrance system, and cornering headlamps with automatic high beams. Selecting Premium packages often necessitates opting for heated and ventilated, or just heated, front seats.
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Airmatic Package: For enhanced ride comfort and handling dynamics, the Airmatic package introduces an air suspension system with adjustable tuning modes.
Standalone options provide further customization, including a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and various interior and exterior trim enhancements.
Performance and Powertrain of the 2017 C300
Powering the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 is a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. A smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission is standard, delivering power to the rear wheels in the standard configuration. The 4Matic system provides all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.
Mercedes-Benz estimates the C300 sedan and coupe accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 6.3 seconds. Fuel efficiency is also commendable, with EPA estimates of 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway) for rear-wheel drive models and 25 mpg combined (23 city/29 highway) for 4Matic versions.
The AMG Lineup: Stepping Up Performance
For drivers craving even greater performance, the 2017 C-Class offers AMG variants. The AMG C43 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 362 hp, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The AMG C63 and C63 S models boast a potent turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 469 hp and 503 hp respectively. These AMG models offer significantly enhanced performance and sport-tuned features.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 remains a compelling choice in the luxury car market, offering a refined blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features. Its variety of body styles, trim options, and customizable packages ensures there’s a C300 to match diverse tastes and needs. For those seeking a sophisticated and engaging driving experience, the 2017 C300 deserves serious consideration.
