The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe (C205), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2018, represented a significant evolution in the compact luxury coupe segment. The C 300 variant, equipped with a 258 horsepower turbocharged engine and EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and technology. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2018 through 2023, solidifying its place as a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and capable grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class Coupe (C205, facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | C 300 (258 Hp) EQ Boost 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 157-180 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.9-9.3 l/100 km (26.4 – 25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.0-5.5 l/100 km (47 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.4-6.9 l/100 km (36.8 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 147-157 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm |
| Electric motor power | 14 Hp |
| Power | 258 Hp |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1800-4000 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 264.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2095 kg (4618.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4686 mm (184.49 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2840 mm (111.81 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
INTRODUCTION
The C205 C-Class Coupe, launched in 2015 and facelifted in 2018, represented Mercedes-Benz’s attempt to capture a younger, more style-conscious audience. Positioned as the more dynamic and sporty sibling to the C-Class sedan, the coupe offered a sleeker profile and a more engaging driving experience. The C 300 4MATIC, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission, was a key volume seller, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy. The introduction of EQ Boost in 2018 further refined the powertrain, adding a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for improved efficiency and responsiveness. This variant aimed to appeal to buyers who desired a premium coupe experience without the higher price tag of the AMG models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C 300 Coupe lies the M264 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver 258 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The EQ Boost system adds a 48-volt integrated starter-generator (ISG) that provides an additional 14 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque during acceleration, smoothing out the start-stop function and enabling features like ‘glide sailing’ to improve fuel efficiency. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, offering smooth and quick shifts. It’s designed with a wide gear ratio spread to optimize both fuel economy and performance. The transmission features a torque converter lockup clutch that engages early to minimize slip and improve efficiency. The engine code M 264.920 is a key identifier for this specific configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The C 300 Coupe with the 9G-TRONIC transmission delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG variants, the C 300 provides ample power for everyday driving and confident highway passing. The EQ Boost system provides a noticeable boost in responsiveness, particularly during initial acceleration. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is generally smooth and unobtrusive, although some drivers may find it occasionally hesitant in certain situations. Compared to the C 300 with a manual transmission (available in some markets), the automatic offers greater convenience and ease of use, but sacrifices some driver engagement. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy, with taller gears for relaxed cruising and shorter gears for quicker response.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 300 Coupe came standard with a generous array of features, including MB-Tex upholstery, automatic climate control, a 7-inch central display screen, and a suite of safety technologies such as adaptive brake assist and collision prevention assist. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a larger 10.25-inch display screen, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior design emphasized luxury and modernity, with high-quality materials and a sleek dashboard layout. Trim levels offered varying degrees of customization, allowing buyers to personalize their C 300 Coupe with different interior colors, wood trims, and exterior styling elements.
Chassis & Braking
The C-Class Coupe utilizes a four-wheel independent suspension system, with a multi-link setup at the rear. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a relatively smooth ride while still offering good body control. The C 300 Coupe typically featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) were standard safety features. The steering system is a direct-steer system, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The chassis was designed to be relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility and handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 300 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. The EQ Boost system was lauded for its contribution to improved fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Compared to competitors such as the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5 Coupe, the C 300 Coupe offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and technology. Fuel economy figures were competitive within its class, and reliability ratings were generally good. However, some critics noted that the C 300 Coupe lacked the outright sportiness of its rivals.
Legacy
The C205 C-Class Coupe, and specifically the C 300 EQ Boost variant, has established itself as a desirable used car option. The M264 engine, coupled with the 9G-TRONIC transmission, has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. The mild-hybrid system has also demonstrated good long-term durability. As a result, well-maintained C 300 Coupes continue to command reasonable prices in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped luxury coupe at a more accessible price point. The integration of mild-hybrid technology in this generation also foreshadowed the broader industry trend towards electrification.
