The Mercedes-Benz C 300 9G-TRONIC, produced from 2016 to 2018, represents a significant iteration of the W205 C-Class generation. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C-Class lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level C 250 and the performance-oriented AMG variants. This model aimed to deliver a balance of luxury, performance, and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a refined driving experience without the higher price tag of the more powerful trims. The W205 C-Class, launched in 2014, marked a substantial leap forward in terms of interior quality, technology, and driving dynamics compared to its predecessor, and the C 300 9G-TRONIC benefited directly from these improvements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W205) |
| Type (Engine) | C 300 (245 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3-8.7 l/100 km (28.3 – 27 US mpg, 34 – 32.5 UK mpg, 12 – 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.7 l/100 km (46.1 – 41.3 US mpg, 55.4 – 49.6 UK mpg, 19.6 – 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3-6.8 l/100 km (37.3 – 34.6 US mpg, 44.8 – 41.5 UK mpg, 15.9 – 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 143-154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 168.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 254.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1300-4000 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1300-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 274.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1455 kg (3207.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2095 kg (4618.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 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.) |
| Length | 4686 mm (184.49 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1442 mm (56.77 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2840 mm (111.81 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Front overhang | 790 mm (31.1 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1056 mm (41.57 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.22 m (36.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C 300 9G-TRONIC is powered by the M274.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and is coupled with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler. The engine produces 245 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque between 1300 and 4000 rpm. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission is a key component of this powertrain, offering a wide range of gear ratios to optimize both fuel efficiency and performance. This transmission replaced the older 7G-TRONIC and contributed to improved acceleration and reduced engine speeds at highway cruising. The engine’s design prioritizes thermal management, employing advanced cooling systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
Driving Characteristics
The C 300 9G-TRONIC delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. The nine-speed transmission allows for quick and seamless gear changes, contributing to a responsive feel. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG models, the C 300 offers ample power for everyday driving and confident passing maneuvers. The wide gear spread of the 9G-TRONIC keeps the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in good acceleration. Compared to the C 250, the C 300 provides a noticeable increase in performance, while remaining more fuel-efficient than the higher-output C 43 AMG. The rear-wheel drive configuration provides a balanced handling characteristic, though it can be less forgiving in slippery conditions compared to the available 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 300 9G-TRONIC came standard with a generous array of features, including MB-Tex upholstery, automatic climate control, a 7-inch central display screen, and Bluetooth connectivity. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a larger 8.4-inch display screen, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and various driver-assistance features such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels often included options packages that bundled popular features together, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their preferences. The interior design emphasized luxury and modernity, with high-quality materials and a clean, intuitive layout.
Chassis & Braking
The W205 C-Class features a sophisticated chassis design with a four-link front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The C 300 typically came equipped with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, along with electronic stability control. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a balance between comfort and handling, making it suitable for both daily commuting and spirited driving. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 300 9G-TRONIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and fuel efficiency. Compared to its competitors, such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, the C 300 offered a compelling combination of features and performance. Some critics noted that the ride could be slightly firm on certain road surfaces, but overall, the C 300 was considered a strong contender in the luxury compact sedan segment. Fuel economy figures consistently placed it among the best in its class.
Legacy
The M274 engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some issues with oil consumption in certain instances. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also had reports of occasional software glitches, but these are typically addressed with software updates. Overall, the C 300 9G-TRONIC has proven to be a durable and dependable vehicle. On the used car market, these models remain popular due to their blend of luxury, performance, and relatively affordable price point. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission servicing, is crucial to ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
