The Mercedes-Benz C 400 4MATIC, produced from 2018 to 2021 as part of the W205 facelift generation of the C-Class, represented a compelling blend of performance and luxury within the compact executive car segment. Positioned as a mid-to-high-range offering, it slotted between the C 300 and the more potent AMG C 43 models. This variant was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a sophisticated driving experience with strong acceleration and all-weather capability, delivered through Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The C 400 4MATIC was sold exclusively with a V6 engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission, offering a refined alternative to the four-cylinder options and a more accessible entry point into the performance-oriented C-Class models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W205, facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | C 400 V6 (333 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 187-207 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.8-11.2 l/100 km (21.8 – 21 US mpg, 26.2 – 25.2 UK mpg, 9.3 – 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.0-6.4 l/100 km (39.2 – 36.8 US mpg, 47.1 – 44.1 UK mpg, 16.7 – 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.8-8.2 l/100 km (30.2 – 28.7 US mpg, 36.2 – 34.4 UK mpg, 12.8 – 12.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 177-187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 225 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 324.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 333 Hp |
| Power per litre | 111.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1600-4000 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.823 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 655 kg (1444.03 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 | 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Approach angle | 13.6° |
| Departure angle | 14.2° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C 400 4MATIC is the M276.823 3.0-liter V6 engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and is equipped with twin turbochargers, providing a substantial power output of 333 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The turbochargers are positioned within the “hot-vee” of the engine, meaning they are located between the cylinder banks, which helps to reduce turbo lag and improve responsiveness. The engine also features variable valve timing and a sophisticated engine management system to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. Paired with this engine is the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel economy and acceleration. The 9G-TRONIC allows the engine to operate at its most efficient RPM range more often, further enhancing fuel savings.
Driving Characteristics
The C 400 4MATIC delivers a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the C 300. The V6 engine provides ample power for confident acceleration in various driving situations, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.7 seconds. The 9G-TRONIC transmission shifts smoothly and quickly, and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG C 43, the C 400 strikes a good balance between comfort and performance. The steering is precise and well-weighted, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride without feeling overly soft. The gear ratios in the 9G-TRONIC are tuned to prioritize both acceleration and fuel efficiency, offering a flexible driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 400 4MATIC typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options ranged from aluminum to wood, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz, with a focus on elegance and functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The C 400 4MATIC utilizes a four-wheel independent suspension system, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The front suspension features multi-link design, while the rear suspension employs a five-link setup. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is integrated with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system to enhance stability and control in challenging driving conditions. The C 400 generally featured a slightly stiffer suspension setup compared to the base C 300, contributing to improved handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 400 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. Reviewers noted that it offered a compelling alternative to its rivals, such as the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. Compared to the C 300, the C 400 offered a significant performance upgrade, while remaining more affordable than the AMG C 43. Fuel economy was respectable for a V6-powered vehicle, although it was not as efficient as the four-cylinder options. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The M276 engine family, including the version used in the C 400, has proven to be relatively reliable, although preventative maintenance, particularly regarding oil changes, is crucial. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also demonstrated good durability. On the used car market, the C 400 4MATIC represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable sedan. While it may not have the outright performance of the AMG models, it offers a refined driving experience and a well-equipped interior at a more accessible price point. The combination of power, all-wheel drive, and a comfortable interior continues to make it an appealing option for those seeking a premium compact executive car.
