Mercedes C-Class 300de: our test drive in Southern France

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The Mercedes C-Class is a well-known model, but among its engine options, one stands out in particular. The star of this review is the C 300de in the wagon version, where “DE” indicates both Diesel and Electric, blending the best of both worlds.

Mercedes strongly believes in this plug-in hybrid technology combined with diesel, and rightly so. Over a week and more than 2,000 kilometers, we experienced remarkable efficiency, especially for a model that doesn’t lack power.

Mercedes C-Class: our tops&flops

The Mercedes C-Class, I admit, has always appealed to me in its latest generation. It has matured a lot compared to previous versions, and the Baby Benz is now truly a more compact flagship.

Elegant and sophisticated in design, though perhaps it has lost a bit of refinement in the interior (which is typical of all modern Mercedes), it remains well-assembled, quiet, and comfortable. A car that eats up miles, and in this plug-in diesel version, it proves it can do so exceptionally well. Over 2000 km driven between Northern Italy and Southern France, with plenty of highway but also uphill and mountain roads, fully loaded, adding to the weight already increased by the battery.

306 HP on a diesel is already a lot, but on a diesel supported by a powerful electric component, it’s even more enjoyable: it’s not the fastest, but it’s very stable and has ridiculously low fuel consumption, less than 4 liters per 100 km with a fully charged battery, and 5 liters when the battery is empty. The battery, in electric-only mode, has a 90 km range, while working together with the combustion engine, it lasts for over 530 km. The only downside is the trunk, which is below expectations, mainly due to the battery.

What we like:

• It has record-breaking range
• Enjoyable driving experience
• Diesel and electric together are a powerhouse

What we don’t like:

• The trunk is underwhelming
• The interior might not be up to par
• The MBUX graphics are now outdated

Prices in Scandinavia

• Denmark: from 553.200 DKK
• Sweden: from 560.550 SEK
• Norway: not available

A sporty design

We’re familiar with the aesthetics of the C-Class, and it is undeniably a true Mercedes. While it may not be a luxury car, it certainly exudes a premium feel. In this case, the AMG-Line package inspired by the C 63 S Performance (a different car altogether) makes this wagon more dynamic and lively.

Lowered side skirts, dedicated sports bumpers, and a unique grille add to the car’s sporty look. The five-spoke wheels, reminiscent of the Mercedes star and featuring the AMG logo in relief, are exclusive to this package.

Aside from these features, the Mercedes C-Class retains a classic and elegant appearance, sleek and pleasing to the eye. Especially in white with contrasting black accents, it doesn’t scream for attention but remains a timeless classic that never gets old.

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The interior design is also familiar. The AMG-Line package brings some exclusive details, including a beautiful flat-bottom steering wheel with double spokes in glossy black. However, the soft-touch buttons can be annoying, particularly in summer when sweat can make the response slow.

There’s also a faux carbon fiber texture, enhancing the sporty vibe seen on the exterior. Comfort remains the main focus: the seats are fully electronically adjustable, including the headrest, with controls conveniently located on the door panel. The steering wheel offers significant reach as well.

However, the materials aren’t as sophisticated as those in the more luxurious E-Class or S-Class, proving that this is a premium car, but not a luxury one. The RGB ambient lighting system adds a touch of elegance with endless customization possibilities.

The compromise is in the trunk, which lacks a double floor, unlike mild hybrid models, due to the battery. The minimum capacity is 490 liters, but we still managed to fit two trolleys, a large suitcase, several bags, water bottles, and two charging cable cases. Though less spacious, it’s still practical, with a maximum capacity of just over 1,510 liters.

A wealth of technology

The premium experience is also evident in the tech department. Mercedes’ MBUX system remains a reliable feature, though it could use a graphical refresh. It’s sufficiently smooth and intuitive, and voice commands, activated by saying “Hey Mercedes,” work well.

There’s also a fingerprint reader for unlocking, similar to smartphones, and the display is well-positioned and angled for easy visibility. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available too.

Unfortunately, only the car’s integrated navigation system can be projected onto the digital dashboard, which can be glitchy. We hope future versions will allow the projection of Google Maps or Waze, which are more widely used.

Over 1100 km range

Now for the main highlight: fuel consumption. Over 2,000 kilometers, mostly on highways between Italy and France and through mountainous scenic routes, the car performed admirably.

At highway speeds, with the battery charged, we achieved an average of 4.3 liters per 100 kilometers. In hybrid mode, the battery lasted for 530 kilometers before fully depleting.

Even with a depleted battery, the car maintained good efficiency at around 5 liters per 100 kilometers, as the battery still provides some support, almost acting like a full hybrid.

With a full battery, the total range approaches 1,100 kilometers, and even with the battery depleted, it’s around 950 kilometers. These figures impressed me, reaffirming the brilliance of combining diesel and electric power, especially given the car’s 306 horsepower.

Fast charging available

Another positive aspect is that the C 300de is also a great city car. Despite its size, the plug-in hybrid still grants access to restricted urban areas in many cities, including Milan.

The car can travel up to 90 kilometers in electric mode, which is ideal for urban driving, further reducing consumption where diesel engines are typically less efficient.

In our test model, charging was limited to AC, but Mercedes offers fast charging as an option, which can restore 80% in just 20 minutes. This is a must-have feature for me, as a quick stop can restore fuel economy and even extend the car’s overall range.

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Despite its heavier weight, the C-Class remains a joy to drive. It’s comfortable and quiet, whether on the highway or winding mountain roads, where it demonstrates excellent grip and stability.

With 306 HP, it accelerates well, though not breathtakingly. The system works fine overall, but the transition between electric and combustion power can sometimes be abrupt, and the response isn’t always immediate when demanding more power.

Despite this, it’s a quiet car, enjoyable to drive in various conditions. The ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) are also good—precise and not overly intrusive. The only downside is the automatic speed limit adaptation, which sometimes reads non-highway signs, but it can be turned off easily.

Overall, driving this car is far from a chore—it’s a pleasure.