German luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz is one of the most respected car brands in the world. Over the years, the brand has produced several iconic cars and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is one of them. Launched in 1992, it was the brand’s first compact executive sedan.
In fact, it was the smallest car produced by Mercedes-Benz until 1997 when the Mercedes-Benz A-Class was launched. The C-Class-based high-performance AMG sedan is known for its mind-blowing and thrilling performance. In this DubiCars Car Spotlight, we take an in-depth look at the history, generations, and models of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Origins Of The Mercedes-Benz C-Class
In 1982, Mercedes-Benz revealed the 190 sedan after supposedly spending over $750 million in developing it over a period of eight years. After its launch, Mercedes-Benz claimed the car was over-engineered. The sheer number of 190s that clocked over a million kilometres without breaking a sweat proved Mercedes right over the next few decades.
The Mercedes-Benz 190 was also an immense success in the motorsport arena. Back then, AMG wasn’t a part of Mercedes-Benz but tuned their cars. The 190 became the first Mercedes-Benz car to be modified and sold by AMG as a reseller. When the time came to replace such a successful car, Mercedes-Benz started developing the W202 and officially named it the C-Class to keep it in line with its new naming convention.
First Generation (W202) | 1992 – 2001
In 1992, Mercedes-Benz introduced the first generation of the C-Class, designated internally as the W202. It marked a departure from the previous naming convention, which used alphanumeric codes based on engine displacement. The W202 brought a new level of refinement and sophistication to the compact executive car segment.
With its sleek design and advanced technology, the W202 aimed to cater to a broader audience while maintaining the brand’s reputation for luxury and performance. It offered a range of engine options. Diesel versions used a 2.0-litre inline-4, a 2.2-litre inline-4, and the venerable 2.5-litre inline-5 OM606 unit. Standard petrol versions used inline-4 engines ranging from 1.8-litres to 2.3-litres in capacity.
A V6 engine was also offered. In 1995, Mercedes-Benz revealed the first AMG model based on the C-Class. The C36 AMG used a 3.6-litre inline-6 engine. In 1997, the C43 AMG debuted with a 4.3-litre V8 and finally, the C55 AMG was launched in 1998 with a 5.4-litre V8 engine. Consumers worldwide praised the W202 for its build quality, safety features, and driving dynamics.
Second Generation (W203) | 1999 – 2010
In 1999, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the second generation of the C-Class, known as the W203. With its sleeker design and refined handling, the W203 appealed to a wide range of drivers, from urban commuters to long-distance travelers. The boxy design was replaced by more curves and Mercedes’ new conjoined circular headlamp design.
This was the first generation to introduce the sports coupe and station wagon body styles. The W203 also featured a redesigned interior with enhanced luxury and improved safety features, further solidifying its position as a leader in its class. Under the bonnet, the W203 retained the same engine options as the previous generation with the addition of a new 3.0-litre diesel engine.
Third Generation (W204) | 2006 – 2015
In 2006, Mercedes-Benz launched the third generation of the C-Class, designated as the W204. It featured an all-new design, replacing the polarising headlamps and curves of the previous generation with a more straightforward design. This iteration represented a significant leap forward in terms of technology and performance.
It also introduced a host of new features, including the COMAND infotainment system, adaptive cruise control, and a range of driver assistance systems. Under the bonnet, the W204 offered a wide array of engine options, including turbocharged four-cylinder engines and powerful V6 engines. The infamous tyre-eating C63 AMG debuted with this generation, featuring a monstrous 6.2-litre V8.
Fourth Generation (W205) | 2014 – 2023
Debuting at the 2014 North American International Auto Show, the fourth generation of the C-Class, known as the W205 brought forth Mercedes’ new design language. This is where all of Mercedes’ sedans adopted similar styling. Therefore, the C-Class came to be fondly known as the ‘Baby Mercedes-Benz S-Class.’ Read all about the history and generations of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class here.
This was the era of environmentalism and this led Mercedes-Benz to introduce hybrid powertrain options. This includes 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mild hybrids while PHEVs on offer included 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and turbo-diesel options. On the AMG versions, they replaced the massive 6.3-litre V8 with a more efficient and powerful 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8.
Inside, the W205 featured a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin, with a large infotainment display, touch-sensitive controls, and premium materials throughout. It also introduced a range of advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. While the sedan’s production ended in 2021, the coupe and cabriolet versions of this generation were produced until 2023.
Fifth Generation (W206) | 2021 – Present
The most recent iteration of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the W206, made its debut in 2021. With its sleek and modern design, the W206 embodies the latest design language of Mercedes-Benz, featuring a larger grille, slimmer headlights, and a more aerodynamic profile.
It also offers a range of advanced technology features, including the latest iteration of the MBUX infotainment system, augmented reality navigation, and advanced driver assistance systems. Under the bonnet, the W206 offers a range of efficient powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
For the very first time, the AMG versions do not come with a V8 engine option. Instead, the C43 AMG is powered by a 2.0-litre mild hybrid turbo petrol, while the C63 AMG S E Performance uses a 2.0-litre PHEV powertrain.
Most Popular Mercedes-Benz C-Class Generations In The UAE
Due to their recency and long list of modern features, the third, fourth, and fifth generations of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class are the most popular in the UAE. Classic car enthusiasts prefer the first generation C-Class and even its predecessor — the 190E.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Prices In The UAE
Prices for a new Mercedes-Benz C-Class for sale in the UAE range from AED 145,000 to AED 425,000. Prices for a used Mercedes-Benz C-Class for sale in the UAE range from AED 19,000 to AED 645,000 depending on the condition and the model year of the vehicle. Want to buy one? Get a complete inspection of the car before putting your money down on it.
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