Mercedes-Benz C-Class History
Introduction
When the Mercedes-Benz C-Class was first introduced, it was considered to be the brand’s smallest car, though it made a huge splash. Even today, the C-Class continues to grow in sales, making sure no one forgets about the luxury Mercedes can provide.
Early History
Mercedes-Benz began producing the C-Class sedan on June 1, 1993, in order to replace their 190 lineup. When it was first introduced, the C-Class was not only considered the brand’s entry level model—something that changed with the introduction of the A-Class in 1997—but also was the only Mercedes model to offer a complete lineup of multi-valve engines.
Recent History
Since its introduction, the C-Class has increased its powertrain and trim level options, now offering Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC four-wheel drive along with the standard rear-wheel drive and four trim levels—Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde, and AMG. It also offers a variety of BLUETEC Diesel engines, along with a hybrid option that is currently being tested.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Awards
- Wheels Magazine 2007 Car of the Year in Australia
- Top Gear Magazine “2007 Executive Car of the Year”
- Japan’s Import Car of the Year in 2007 and 2011
- ADAC “Yellow Angel 2008”
- Journalists of the UIGA, an Italian association of motor journalists, chose the C63 AMG as the “Europe Tuning Car of the Year 2008”