Review: 2022 Mercedes Benz C Class

Mercedes-Benz has launched the new-generation C-Class in the Indian market, the prices of which start from Rs 55 lakh. It is available in two variants – Avantgarde and AMG-Line – across three engine options, the new C-Class borrows much of the tech from bigger, more expensive Mercedes-Benz cars.

The interior of the C-Class is similar that of the bigger, more premium S-Class. That sense of familiarity is mainly due to the 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system. In addition to this, another attention grabbing feature is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which is the largest in the segment. Both the screens help to create a high-tech vibe inside the cabin, which is accentuated by illuminated turbine-shaped AC vents.

The infotainment screen has the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system (NTG7). There are some key updates like 3D maps, courtesy of Here Maps, and it offers crystal clear details of popular sites and monuments. However, as the C-Class also comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for now, The benefit of using it, though, is that it also displays in the centre of the instrument cluster, which is easier to look up when you are on the move.

Tilted slightly towards the driver, the big screen might look daunting, but the MBUX system is logically laid-out. The climate control settings are fixed at the bottom of the screen, irrespective of the functions selected in the top half, so quick changes to the fan speed and temperature can easily be executed. A capacitive touch bar under the screen toggles between the drive modes and also has a biometric fingerprint scanner and volume controls.

Seven different users can log in through their fingerprint scan or voice recognition, and the C-Class will automatically adjust the seats and steering position, ambient light colours and temperature, and even the last media source and route taken. “Hey Mercedes, load my personal profile” is all you need to say for the system to come to life.