The Mercedes-Benz C 300 de (EQ Power) is a plug-in hybrid variant of the W205 C-Class, produced from June 2019 to February 2021. Positioned as a premium offering within the C-Class range, it combined a diesel engine with an electric motor to deliver both efficiency and performance. This model was a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s expanding EQ Power lineup, aimed at providing customers with electrified options without sacrificing the driving experience associated with the C-Class. The C 300 de primarily targeted European markets where diesel-electric hybrids were particularly popular due to favorable tax incentives and emissions regulations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W205, facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | C 300de (306 Hp) EQ Power 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | June, 2019 |
| End of production | February, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 1.2 l/100 km (196 US mpg, 235.4 UK mpg, 83.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 1.6 l/100 km (147 US mpg, 176.6 UK mpg, 62.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 32-42 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 1.2-1.6 l/100 km (196 – 147 US mpg, 235.4 – 176.6 UK mpg, 83.3 – 62.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 32-42 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 168.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 384.6 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 13.5 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Inside the trunk |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 57 km (35.42 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 18.7 kWh/100 km (30.09 kWh/100 mi, 112 MPGe, 5.3 km/kWh, 3.3 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 122 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 440 Nm @ 0-2000 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 0-2000 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 306 Hp |
| System torque | 700 Nm @ 1400 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Power | 194 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 654.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1950 cm3 (119 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2425 kg (5346.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25 l (6.6 US gal | 5.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4686 mm (184.49 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1442 mm (56.77 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2840 mm (111.81 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Front overhang | 790 mm (31.1 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1056 mm (41.57 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the rear wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C 300 de utilizes a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine (OM 654.920) paired with a 122 hp electric motor. The diesel engine produces 194 hp at 3800 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1600-2800 rpm. The electric motor contributes an additional 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque available from 0-2000 rpm. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 306 hp and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. The engine features a turbocharger with intercooling and a diesel common rail direct injection system. The electric motor is positioned between the engine and the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. The 13.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the trunk floor, slightly reducing cargo capacity. The battery supports AC charging for convenient home or public charging.
Driving Characteristics
The C 300 de offers a unique driving experience, blending the refinement of a Mercedes-Benz with the benefits of electric propulsion. In electric-only mode, the car provides silent and smooth acceleration, suitable for urban driving. The combined output delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 5.3 seconds. The 9G-TRONIC transmission provides seamless gear changes, optimizing efficiency and performance. Compared to the C 300 with a gasoline engine, the C 300 de offers superior low-end torque due to the electric motor, resulting in quicker initial acceleration. Compared to the C 300 d (diesel only), the C 300 de provides the option of zero-emission driving and improved fuel economy in certain driving scenarios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 300 de typically came well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features included Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with a touchscreen display, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, and air suspension for enhanced ride comfort. Interior trim options varied, allowing customers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The dashboard layout was consistent with other W205 C-Class models, featuring a modern and elegant design.
Chassis & Braking
The C 300 de utilizes a multi-link independent suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Optional air suspension was available, further enhancing ride quality and allowing for adjustable ride height. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car is equipped with ABS, electronic stability control, and other advanced braking systems. The added weight of the battery pack and electric motor necessitated a slightly stiffer suspension setup compared to the standard C-Class models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 300 de was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, smooth driving experience, and refined interior. Its ability to travel a significant distance on electric power alone was a major selling point. Compared to other C-Class variants, the C 300 de offered the best fuel economy, particularly for drivers who frequently commute in urban areas. However, the higher purchase price and reduced trunk space were noted as potential drawbacks. Against competitors like the BMW 330e and Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, the C 300 de offered a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and luxury.
Legacy
The C 300 de represents an important step in Mercedes-Benz’s transition towards electrification. The powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, the C 300 de commands a premium over comparable gasoline or diesel-only C-Class models, reflecting its advanced technology and fuel-saving potential. The longevity of the battery pack remains a key consideration for potential buyers, but Mercedes-Benz offers extended warranties on the battery to provide peace of mind. The C 300 de paved the way for future plug-in hybrid models from Mercedes-Benz, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
