2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300

The compact luxury sedan segment is arguably one of the most competitive domains for manufacturers today, with the segment dating back nearly five decades. It was German rivals such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW that essentially pioneered the segment; however, since then, times have changed, and the vehicles within the segment are now expected to be all things to all people as the most rounded vehicles available on the market. This is where the C-Class sedan steps in; still competing with the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, these luxury-family cruisers are packaged as the most well-rounded and contemporary offerings from performance to features, and everything in between. The 2020 C-Class Sedan is equipped with the prior year's upgraded 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, directed to either the rear-wheel-drivetrain of the C300, or all-wheel-drivetrain of the C300 4MATIC via a nine-speed automatic gearbox on both. Though no enhancements have been given to the 2020 year model, considering that the C-Class had its mid-cycle refresh for the 2019 model year, a lot of feature standardization has taken place for the latest model. All C-Class Sedans now come with the previously optional 10.25-inch high-resolution infotainment display as standard, along with the prior year's optional 18-inch twin five-spoke alloy wheels, blind-spot assist, keyless ignition, hands-free access, and electronic trunk closer. Finally, three-zone automatic climate control has also now been made available for the C-Class Sedan as an option. With its midcycle updates from last year, the 2020 C-Class still flaunts a sportier aesthetic than what is familiar, with influence taken from the AMG line models - particularly in its front and rear fascias. For 2020, the sedan is perched on 18-inch twin five-spoke aluminum wheels, befitting its assertive demeanor and better filling out its taut molded arches. Also standard as of last year, the C-Class sports all-LED exterior lighting, from the signature headlights with LED daytime running lights to the boxy taillights. The available AMG line package adds further doses of aggression to the mix with a revised grille, revised front and rear bumpers, and AMG-line alloy wheels. Gateway models sometime fall well short of their more expensive counterparts in a luxury automaker's lineup, but that isn't the case with the C-class. This relatively affordable Benz bears pleasing similarities to the storied S-class, and it delivers this goodness at a reasonable price. Its cabin is chic and opulent, and its handling is crisp and engaging. Sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles are offered. The C300 is no slouch in the fun department, but those seeking a little extra kick will want to investigate the AMG variants, which step things up significantly when it comes to performance. We review those models, the C43 and C63, separately.