C-Class Plug-in Hybrid

DESIGN

The C-Class is a good-looking saloon and Mercedes-Benz has resisted the temptation to give its PHEV model distinct EV styling. Just a simple 'e' on the C 300 e and C 300 de (diesel) tells onlookers that there are two sources of power under the bonnet. The lines are classic and restrained, with just enough sculpting down the side panels to catch the light and draw the eye. Inside, a large centre console is topped by a landscape-format infotainment touchscreen. The ambience is welcoming, with ample use of high-quality materials to satisfy the pickiest of corporate executives.
C-Class Plug-in Hybrid

TECHNOLOGY

Both the petrol and diesel plug-in hybrids, share the same electric drivetrain components, namely a 13.5 kW/h battery and a 90kW (122hp) electric motor. Allied to the C 300 de's 2.0-litre diesel, the key figures are a combined power output of 306hp, 700Nm of torque and a 0-62mph time of just 5.6 seconds. WLTP test fuel consumption is 235.4-217.3mpg, depending on specification. How does that compare with the petrol C 300 e? Here, the combined power output is slightly higher at 320hp, the torque is identical at 700Nm, the 0-62mph time is a fraction quicker at 5.4 seconds and fuel consumption is quoted at 188.3-176.6mpg. In the real world there's little to choose between them; some will prefer petrol for its sportier response, but over long-distance journeys the diesel will reward you with better fuel consumption.
C-Class Plug-in Hybrid

SAFETY

All models come with an array of safety systems as standard. These include Adaptive Brake assist with Hold and brake-drying function, Attention Assist to keep you alert on long journeys and Collision Prevention Assist Plus with distance warning and autonomous braking. Parking Assist and Parktronic can not only tell you when you're approaching an obstacle, it can also warn of crossing traffic (valuable when you're reversing out of a parking space) and briefly dab the brakes.
C-Class Plug-in Hybrid

FEATURES

The two C-Class plug-in hybrids are available with a choice of trim levels, starting with Sport and progressing upwards through AMG Line, AMG Line Night Edition, AMG Line Night Edition Premium and reaching its pinnacle at AMG Line Night Edition Premium Plus. Sport comes with LED Multibeam headlamps and Dynamic Select with a choice of five drive modes; AMG Line brings a larger 12.3 inch digital instrument display to the mix, while the top of the range AMG Line Night Edition Premium Plus includes Burmester surround sound audio, Keyless-Go package, 360-degree camera and a panoramic, powered glass sunroof.