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Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2019 review

Saloon Diesel

Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2019 — front three-quarter view

Overview

The facelifted W205 C-Class is the version to buy used. Mercedes revised the styling, cabin technology and engines in 2018, and the 2019 car feels a generation newer inside than the pre-facelift model while costing far less than the W206 that replaced it. The C 220 d AMG Line Edition sits at the sweet spot of the range: the diesel most UK buyers actually chose, with the sporty AMG Line bodykit and 18-inch wheels, but without the running costs of the six-cylinder or AMG models.

Its 2.0-litre OM654 diesel is the star: 194 PS and a strong 400 Nm from just 1,600 rpm, so it pulls cleanly from low revs and makes the nine-speed automatic feel almost effortless on motorways. Real-world economy in the low 50s mpg is realistic on a longer run, and the 66-litre tank gives a genuinely long touring range, which is why this car became a default motorway choice for company and private buyers alike.

Inside, the facelift brought a 10.25-inch media display, and AMG Line cars get sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and lowered sports suspension. Cabin quality is a clear step above a BMW 3 Series of the same age for materials and hush, though rear legroom and the 455-litre boot are merely average for the class, and the saloon small boot opening limits bulky loads. The estate is the practical pick if you regularly carry large items.

As a used buy, the C 220 d makes most sense with a full Mercedes or specialist service history and evidence of longer runs: short-trip-only diesels are the ones that suffer DPF and EGR trouble. Budget for premium servicing and tyres, check the electronics thoroughly, inspect the AMG Line wheels for cracks, and check any outstanding recalls by VIN with Mercedes or the DVSA before committing.

UK price from: £39,785

Specifications

Engine	1,950cc OM654 turbo diesel, 4-cylinder
Power	194 PS (191 bhp)
Torque	400 Nm @ 1,600-2,800 rpm
0-62 mph	6.9 seconds
Top speed	149 mph
Fuel economy (WLTP combined)	c. 52-55 mpg depending on spec
CO2 emissions	117 g/km (Premium listings)
Gearbox	9-speed 9G-Tronic Plus automatic
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
Boot space	455 litres
Fuel tank	66 litres
Length	4,686 mm
Wheelbase	2,840 mm
Insurance group	36
Euro NCAP rating	5 stars (tested 2014, pre-facelift W205)

Features

AMG body styling with diamond radiator grille and 18-inch alloys
10.25-inch media display with COMAND Online, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (Premium pack)
LED headlights (Multibeam LED on Premium Plus)
DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual)
Active Brake Assist and Attention Assist driver assistance
Reversing camera and Active Park Assist with Parktronic
64-colour ambient lighting and heated sports seats (Premium)

Common parts & prices

Part	Price (GBP)	Notes
Front brake pads (pair)	£58	Typical UK pattern-part retail estimate, parts only excl. fitting, not catalogue-verified
Front brake discs (pair)	£165	Typical UK pattern-part retail estimate, parts only excl. fitting, not catalogue-verified
Rear brake pads (pair)	£50	Typical UK pattern-part retail estimate, parts only excl. fitting, not catalogue-verified
Oil filter	£16	Typical UK pattern-part retail estimate, parts only excl. fitting, not catalogue-verified
Air filter	£28	Typical UK pattern-part retail estimate, parts only excl. fitting, not catalogue-verified
12V battery	£150	Typical UK pattern-part retail estimate, parts only excl. fitting, not catalogue-verified

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

Strong, refined OM654 diesel with genuine 50-plus mpg touring economy
Hushed, high-quality cabin that still feels premium today
Smooth nine-speed automatic gearbox
Five-star Euro NCAP safety rating with a full assistance suite
Huge used choice across the UK and strong badge appeal

Cons

Boot (455 litres) and rear space are only average for the class
Firm AMG Line ride on 18-inch wheels and run-flat tyres
Premium servicing, tyre and repair costs
Diesel DPF and EGR sensitivity to short-trip use

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2019 C 220 d AMG Line economical?

Yes. Expect low 50s mpg on motorway runs, with a WLTP combined figure of around 52 to 55 mpg depending on specification. Urban and short-trip use will be noticeably lower and risks DPF trouble on a diesel.

Is the 2019 C 220 d fast enough?

Yes. With 194 PS and 400 Nm it reaches 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and tops out at 149 mph. Its strength is in-gear motorway punch rather than standing-start drama.

How big is the boot on the 2019 C-Class saloon?

455 litres, with 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats. The opening is small for bulky items, so the estate is far more practical if you carry large loads regularly.

Is the 2019 C-Class reliable?

Generally solid when serviced on time, but check for EGR and DPF warnings, infotainment glitches, and AMG Line wheel damage. A full service history is essential, and cars with regular longer runs are the safer buy.

What should I check before buying a 2019 C 220 d?

Outstanding recalls by VIN with Mercedes or the DVSA, DPF and EGR health and warning lights, electronics including screens, sensors and parking systems, alloy wheel cracks and buckles, sunroof operation, and tyre condition. Note the staggered sizes: 225/45 front and 245/40 rear.