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Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 review

Saloon Diesel

Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has long been the default choice for buyers wanting a junior S-Class, and the W206 generation leans into that brief harder than ever. The 2024 range centres on the C 220 d, a 2.0-litre diesel with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance producing 200 PS and a remarkable claimed 57.6 mpg. Paired with the smooth nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic, it is the long-distance driver's dream.

The cabin is a genuine highlight, dominated by the 11.9-inch portrait MBUX touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Materials feel rich, the 64-colour ambient lighting transforms night driving, and the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant actually works. UK cars run from Sport through the ever-popular AMG Line, with blind spot assist, active brake assist and wireless smartphone integration standard across the range.

On the move, the C-Class majors on refinement. The diesel is hushed at a cruise, the ride is supple, and the steering is light and accurate if not especially feelsome. The BMW 3 Series remains the keener driver's choice, but the Mercedes counters with a plusher cabin and stronger brand cachet. With excellent residuals and that three-pointed star on the bonnet, the C-Class is easy to recommend.

UK price from: £40,000

Specifications

Engine	2.0-litre turbocharged diesel (C 220 d, mild hybrid)
Power	200 PS (147 kW)
0-60 mph	7.3 seconds
Top speed	150 mph
Fuel economy	57.6 mpg (WLTP combined)
CO2	129 g/km
Boot space	455 litres
Length	4751 mm
Transmission	9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic
Drive	Rear-wheel drive

Features

11.9-inch portrait MBUX central display with voice control
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
64-colour ambient interior lighting
ARTICO man-made leather upholstery
Heated front seats with lumbar support
Blind spot assist and active brake assist
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
17-inch alloy wheels (AMG Line styling)

Common parts & prices

Part	Price (GBP)	Notes
Front brake pads	£0	AMG Line fitment; change in axle pairs
Front brake discs (pair)	£0	Vented discs; check run-out if vibration appears
Diesel fuel filter	£0	Protects the high-pressure fuel system; change per schedule
Oil filter	£0	Use low-ash oil to protect the DPF
Wiper blades (pair)	£0	Flat blades; replace yearly
12V battery	£0	AGM type; requires registration on replacement

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

Pros

Genuinely luxurious, S-Class-inspired cabin
Excellent diesel economy on long runs
Quiet, supple and relaxing to drive
Strong brand cachet and residuals

Cons

Petrol versions are noticeably thirstier
Boot smaller than some rivals
Main-dealer servicing is pricey
Touch-sensitive steering controls annoy

Frequently asked questions

What is the real-world MPG of the C 220 d?

Low-to-mid 50s mpg on motorways is achievable, with mid-40s in mixed driving. Short trips hurt diesels, and the DPF needs regular longer runs to regenerate. The mild-hybrid system smooths stop-start running in town.

How much does a Mercedes C-Class service cost in the UK?

Budget £300–£450 at a main dealer for scheduled services, or less at a good independent Mercedes specialist. Mercedes service plans let you spread the cost monthly and can aid resale.

Is the C-Class good for company car drivers?

The C 300 e plug-in hybrid suits company-car tax with its low BIK rate, while the C 220 d works for high-mileage drivers. Check the latest BIK bands before ordering, as they change each tax year.

C-Class saloon or estate — which is better?

The estate adds a bigger, more practical boot for a small premium and tends to hold value slightly better. The saloon looks sleeker and costs a touch less. Choose on lifestyle rather than cost.