The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class graces the automotive realm as the first “classic” Benz to receive an electrified mild-hybrid powertrain. The latest W206 C-Class is still riding on the brand’s Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) platform, but it’s now longer and wider than the outgoing model.
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class features a cab-backward exterior design with more dynamic proportions and a longer hood. It also has new headlights, two-piece horizontal taillights, a sleeker side profile, and a higher beltline to deliver a more athletic yet progressive stance.
Innovative 48-Volt Mild-Hybrid Powertrain
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class will initially arrive with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine pumping out 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. It also has a 48-volt EQ Boost mild-hybrid system contributing an additional 20 horsepower and 148 lb-ft. of torque for short bursts of rapid acceleration. The hybrid system can also turn off the gas engine when coasting to save fuel. Power goes to the rear wheels via a nine-speed automatic gearbox. Of course, the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC AWD system remains optional.
Are you missing the AMG C 63 S model from last year? Don’t fret. Yes, there are plans to introduce more powerful versions of the 2022 C-Class soon, so keep your chin up.
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Trim Levels
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is arriving in three simplified trim levels: Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle. Here’s a brief rundown of each.
C-Class Premium
The 2022 C-Class Premium may be the base model, but it comes loaded with advanced tech features. It has a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, an 11.9-inch center touchscreen display with MBUX, and a biometric finger scanner similar to the flagship S-Class. It also gets heated front seats, a sunroof, 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights with adaptive high beams, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and interior ambient lighting.
There’s more. The C-Class Premium also has a hands-free trunk, blind-spot assist, active brake assist, attention assist, and Mercedes Pre-Safe.
C-Class Exclusive
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Exclusive has all the goodies from the Premium trim while adding an enhanced ambient lighting system, wireless charging, illuminated door sills, and a Burmester 3D surround audio system. Parktronic with active parking assist and a 360-degree camera are both standard.
Optional features include ventilated seats, a panoramic roof, heated steering wheel, quick-charge USB ports, and Sirius XM satellite radio.
C-Class Pinnacle
The 2022 Mercedes C-Class Pinnacle builds upon the Exclusive trim and adds MBUX augmented video for navigation, a heads-up display, and an updated navigation system. Optional features include a dashcam, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and an integrated toll pass, to name a few.
AMG Line With Night Package
Mercedes claims its AMG Line with Night Package “represents the sportiest expression of the new C-Class sedan.” The package includes AMG body styling with blacked-out accents, exclusive AMG wheel designs, a new diamond grille with a chrome star design, and an updated front bumper with custom A-wings. Meanwhile, the interior receives a flat-bottom AMG steering wheel, an MB-Tex dashboard, and AMG floor liners.
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Pricing
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class will arrive at U.S. dealerships this spring with a starting MSRP of $44,600 (C 300 RWD) and $46,600 (C 300 4MATIC). More detailed pricing information by trim level is available here. Additionally, this free and easy search tool* will show you which Mercedes-Benz dealers are offering the best incentives on a 2022 C-Class.
Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.
Photos & Source: MBUSA.
*Although always free for you, Automoblog and its partners may receive a commission when you use the services provided through that link. MSRP figures are subject to change.
