10 economical cars for rent in Dubai

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is as compact as a luxury sedan can get, yet it remains convenient. While the Mercedes C-Class lineup may not be as extensive as before the 2022 redesign, the C-Class still appeals to most individuals seeking a bit of indulgence. Technology and design inspired by the S-Class always elevate the C-Class, and the resemblances of this generation are once again unmistakable.

The massive MBUX entertainment system and a wide array of optional technical features might be a bit overwhelming at first, but no one delivers future-oriented technology quite like Mercedes. Both the exterior and interior designs are understated yet undeniably elegant, and once again, technology takes the forefront.

Driving the C-Class leaves no mistake that it is one of the best luxury sedans money can buy. The balance of ride comfort and handling of the C 300 exemplifies the fine line between luxury and sportiness, precisely what you would expect from a base model in this class. It may not be the sportiest car among its competitors—the BMW 3 Series still has a better driving experience—but anyone will appreciate the way it performs on the road.

As usual, when it comes to Mercedes-Benz products, the C-Class sees itself at the top of the class in most areas, and assuming you can afford one of these products, we highly recommend it.

The C-Class has heavily borrowed (to its advantage) from the recently redesigned S-Class. The generous seats with rotating armrests on individual bases come in a wide range of interior and color options—a combination of bold red and black or AMG Sienna Brown resembling brick with genuine wood trim and aluminum stripes. Ambient lighting decorates the doors, dashboard, and metal openings, inspired by airplanes and available in 64 colors.

Architects carved out floating console armrests and control compartments with light edges. A three-spoke steering wheel feels good as it looks, just as the metal gearshift paddles gleam with the coolness and polish of river stones.

The 11.9-inch MBUX entertainment system, despite the improvements from a larger display, still requires a learning curve for first-time users. However, once your brain and the steering wheel’s touchpad are trained, MBUX truly becomes a very effective—and undeniably enjoyable—way to navigate the data-rich landscapes of modern cars. The option to adopt the new “Zero Layer” layout seen for the first time in the EQS intelligently avoids digressions into the sensory overload menus.

This provides a map view at all times, alongside the main “module” tiles and “magic modules” controlled by machine learning from the driver’s history and behavior. Augmented reality navigation continues to impress, placing directional arrows, street signs, and even addresses on a seamless camera display.

The redesigned 2022 Mercedes model has increased by 2.5 inches, reaching 187 inches (only 1.3 inches more than the Audi A4 or Cadillac CT4 and 0.4 inches more than the BMW 3 Series) with a one-inch higher wheelbase. It is also nearly half an inch wider and lower than the previous generation. Added shoulder and elbow room in the front and back, almost an inch more rear legroom, and 0.4 inches more headroom in the back despite a lower roofline.

This means that the rear seat is spacious, but not surprising for adults. It bears a strong resemblance to its closest competitor, the 3 Series. A standard panoramic sunroof adds to the impressive appearance.

The rear seats fold down via switches located in the trunk to open up more versatile space. The trunk is large and suitable for its class, even if 12.6 cubic feet may not seem like much.

What are the fuel consumption and performance specifications of the C-Class? The base model C 300 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain integrates a 48-volt mild hybrid system that provides temporary bursts and a strong 20 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. Power is transmitted through a 9-speed automatic transmission, and you can choose either rear-wheel drive or the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system – Mercedes claims a 0-60 mph time of 6.0 seconds for both options.

The city fuel consumption is an impressive 25 miles per gallon, highway is 35 miles per gallon, and combined is 29 miles per gallon with rear-wheel drive. These figures decrease to 23/33/27 with 4Matic.

The Mercedes-AMG C 43 version features a handcrafted 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 402 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque – it is the first production car to date with an electric turbocharger. A 9-speed multi-clutch gearbox handles gear shifting, and Mercedes promises a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.6 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system is the only drivetrain configuration available, and fuel consumption data was not available at the time of this writing.

The new four-cylinder turbo engine and 48-volt mild hybrid system in the C 300 may not have spec sheet numbers, but the powertrain is thoroughly luxurious. There is ample torque for city driving, and the seamless integration of the mild hybrid system creates one of the most enjoyable daily driving experiences you can have at this price.

The 6.0-second 0-60 time is also conservative, as the C-Class gets up and goes when you want it to. We have no complaints about the gearbox either, as it changes imperceptibly in the background, just as a true luxury sedan should.

Call up the “Sport” mode, and the C 300 shows that it will dance in corners with as much enthusiasm as it rotates bad pavement. It has good steering weight, and the suspension system maintains composure even when you lean on it relatively hard. The BMW 3 Series or Acura TLX still have the upper hand over the C-Class in this generation, but not by a long shot. The duality of this luxury sedan is very appealing, even in the standard C 300 trim.