Mercedes-Benz C-Class C200 AMG Line 2018 UK review

From £29,0357
A mild hybrid engine makes the revised C-Class even more of a refined cruiser, but range mates still have more appeal
Tom Morgan, deputy digital editor
by Tom Morgan
30 July 2018

What is it?

Probably the most interesting version of Mercedes’ recently refreshed junior saloon — even if it’s unlikely to be the one that will top sales charts.

The first fourth-generation C-Class to receive the EQ Boost mild hybrid engine, the C200 mates a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-pot (down from two litres in the outgoing car) with a 48V electrical system.

Belt-driven pumps, compressors and generators have been swapped for electric ones in the name of fuel economy, letting the engine disengage completely when coasting in Eco mode.

But beyond eradicating parasitic power losses, this double-duty set-up also brings a performance benefit. By using the auxiliary compressor to prime the turbocharger, it temporarily boosts engine output by 21bhp and delivers a hefty 184lb ft of instant torque.

The combination delivers, according to Mercedes, the performance of the old 2.0-litre engine, without the fuel consumption to match.

Having driven a C200 in Germany earlier this year, this was our first opportunity to test one on UK roads and find out how AMG Line’s sports suspension, which sits 15mm lower than entry-level SE trim, copes with less pristine Tarmac.

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What's it like?

Smooth as you like, courtesy of an electrical system that handles engine start/stop with the deftness of a concert pianist. Set off from a set of traffic lights and the engine cuts back in almost instantly, with hardly any vibration and almost no noise.

The system comes into its own in Eco mode, with the engine cutting in and out inconspicuously as you coast. It’s not quite instant, though, taking just a little too long after lifting off the throttle. A more aggressive setting would make it even more effective at saving on fuel bills.

In motion, the engine doesn’t quite drone, but it is more noticeable from inside the cabin than you’d perhaps expect in a premium saloon. Push hard and the C200 makes you acutely aware that it’s putting in the effort, but that noise doesn’t translate into significant progress. It can feel a little lethargic at a more relaxed pace, but things improve once you’re off the line.

With no manual gearbox anywhere in the range, the C200 relies on a nine-speed automatic gearbox for respectable — if not exactly rapid — shifts. The EQ boost system is supposed to deliver its torque while the turbo spools up, but it isn’t immediately noticeable unless you actively search for it. In most drive modes, the effect is minimal.

Everything looks suitably premium inside and the fixtures easily give it an edge over BMW’s 3 Series, but the C200’s materials can’t quite eclipse that of an Audi A4. It’s all rather busy, too, with an overwhelming number of buttons adorning the steering wheel.

Having seen Mercedes’ new dual-screen MBUX infotainment system in the S-Class, E-Class and even the A-Class hatchback, the older system used here feels a little out of date. A digital instrument cluster goes some way to redressing the balance, but the touchpad/rotary dial combo is fussy to use.

Our test car has 4Matic all-wheel drive, a £1600 premium over the rear-wheel-only C200. While steering is typically light with minimal feel, it is at least accurate. The sports suspension may deliver a firmer ride than the entry-level set-up, but it still copes respectably on rough and pothole-scarred A-roads. The advantages of the optional air springs would probably best suit those doing regular long-distance motorway journeys.

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Should I buy one?

This is easily the most forward-thinking version of the C-Class, but the bulk of orders are still expected to be for the diesel-powered C220d. While ever-increasing demand for lower emissions means mild hybrid systems are undoubtedly set to become a firm fixture in the future, this particular system used here just can’t match diesel range mates for economy.

The C200 is a laid-back motorway cruiser that can still be stirred to life when called upon, but Autocar readers looking for a more engaging drive may be left wanting.

The more powerful C300 is likely to deliver greater thrills, but it remains to be seen if it will be eclipsed by the refreshed Audi A4 due imminently or the brand new BMW 3 Series set to follow later in the year.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class C200 AMG Line 4Matic specification

Location Kent, UK Price £39,416 On sale now Engine 1497cc, 4-cylinder, in-line, turbocharged petrol Power 184bhp at 3800rpm Torque 207lb ft at 3000-4000rpm Gearbox 9-speed automatic Kerb weight 1595kg Top speed 145mph 0-62mph 8.1sec Fuel economy 53.3mpg CO2 148g/km, 30% Rivals BMW 3-series, Audi A4, Jaguar XE

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Comments
17

xxxx

30 July 2018

Is the one that turns off the stop-start. It's annoying enough operating when you stopped, now it does it when you lift off the throttle. IMO of course

FMS

30 July 2018
xxxx wrote:

Is the one that turns off the stop-start. It's annoying enough operating when you stopped, now it does it when you lift off the throttle. IMO of course

Most important switch...the inaccessible one that would, if flicked, bring you to a complete halt...do you even know where it is?. TWIT

 

xxxx - just can't respect the call to shut up.

 

 

 

Aussierob

30 July 2018

Switching the stop/start system off shouldn’t be possible. Do you want to turn off the other emission  reduction systems off as well? I often walk along a road heavily congested with stationary cars waiting at lights etc. and I for one want all their engines OFF! And if I lived at the side of that road, as many do, I’d be even keener.

Why on earth is there a switch? Doesn’t make sense - you can be sure the stop/start was enabled when the emissions and fuel economy were tested. Why should they be allowed to deteriorate?

Robbo

xxxx

30 July 2018
Aussierob wrote:

Switching the stop/start system off shouldn’t be possible. Do you want to turn off the other emission  reduction systems off as well? ....

No, because it's not possible, not necessary and has a use.  S/S has penalties: more weight, bigger battery, more complicated, more expensive, more software, more to go wrong. It's dupious whether it's actually more environmental as well, especially when the car is getting on a bit  

FMS

30 July 2018
xxxx wrote:

Aussierob wrote:

Switching the stop/start system off shouldn’t be possible. Do you want to turn off the other emission  reduction systems off as well? ....

No, because it's not possible, not necessary and has a use.  S/S has penalties: more weight, bigger battery, more complicated, more expensive, more software, more to go wrong. It's dupious whether it's actually more environmental as well, especially when the car is getting on a bit  

 

Define "dupious".

The key used incorrectly is nowhere near the key that should have been used.

"more environmental"...the "e" word has been given no context...what do you mean by the use of this word in that jumble of words that you cobbled together?. TWIT

 

Aussierob

30 July 2018

Just not your facts.

Stop start has negligible weight (less than 200gm all up, mainly wiring) does NOT need a larger battery and why do you think it doesn’t reduce emissions, especially CO2 - do you think manufacturers fit it for fun, or to get lower numbers? And of all the emission equipment fitted, this one has the greatest real world effect because it lasts the life of the car, not just for the first few years!

xxxx

30 July 2018

Not quite sure what you are saying. I said the battery is heavier, you said I'm wrong, then say the battery is heavier?  Lasts the life of the car, batteries don't usually last around 15 years, and a stop start battery is alot more expensive.

As to the rest of my facts, it is more complicated, more software, more likely to go wrong etc.

Also, I was kind as I didn't mention the uprated heavier and more expensive generator and starter motor used in S/S systems.

At the end of the day my opinion is there's better ways to save the environment than S/S

FMS

30 July 2018
Aussierob wrote:

Just not your facts.

Stop start has negligible weight (less than 200gm all up, mainly wiring) does NOT need a larger battery and why do you think it doesn’t reduce emissions, especially CO2 - do you think manufacturers fit it for fun, or to get lower numbers? And of all the emission equipment fitted, this one has the greatest real world effect because it lasts the life of the car, not just for the first few years!

 

that although xxxx (zzzz) has cobbled together what can (very) loosely be described an opinion, sharing it with the rest of us, is not so welcome. xxxx never lets any facts get in the way of one finger (mis)typing, hoping one day, using the law of averages, to strike a sensible note...please, no-one hold their breath. Perhaps xxxx in using this form of address would find it very hard to dispute my replacing each x with the following suggested letters... T W I T.

Aussierob

30 July 2018

Is that if the voltage drops, stop/start is automatically disabled. And, in any case, won’t work again until a calibrated period has elapsed, to enable battery recharging to be complete.

Aussierob

30 July 2018

The battery is not heavier. There will be some extra wiring, that’s why I allowed a few hundred grams. Negligible.

Nope, a stop/start battery is not more expensive because it’s the same battery, as I tried to make clear.

And software doesn’t go wrong! That’s hardware. Software, once installed, lasts eternity. Unless someone fiddles with it in an amateur attempt to bypass emission control equipment.

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