2013 Mercedes-Benz C Class vs. Its Competition
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Last year, Mercedes-Benz opened up the C Class models to a more competitive position in the compact sport-sedan class, thanks to the introduction of a base four-cylinder engine in the C250.
It's now more of a direct rival to the likes of the Audi A4, as well as the BMW 3-Series, which is now offered in turbo four-cylinder guise as the 328i.
Standard equipment is much the same in the C Class models, compared to the A3 or 3-Series, though the A4 offers quattro all-wheel drive though more of the lineup and its interior design is arguably still a step ahead.
The A4 is perhaps a rung lower in actual luxury image or prestige next to the C Class.
For handling, BMW's 3-Series continues to be the champ, and the richly appointed interior of the new models and improved ride no longer make it feel as compromised.
The current Lexus IS models feel a step behind the rest at this point; they lack the luxury sheen and desirability of most of this group, as well as the performance in base IS 250 form, yet their prices are nearly the same.
For less money, the Acura TSX might be worth considering, especially if getting a rear-wheel-drive sport sedan isn't your main reason for looking at the C Class.
 2013 Mercedes-Benz C ClassGet FREE Price Quote |  2013 Audi A4Get FREE Price Quote |  2013 BMW 3-SeriesGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Acura TSXGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Infiniti G37 SedanGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Lexus IS 350Get FREE Price Quote |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
| Meta Rating | |||||
For those who are image-conscious yet value-conscious, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C Class sedans and coupes make a lot of sense. | Magnificent design and technology sets the Audi A4 apart, but it's not quite as sporty as its BMW and Cadillac competition. | The 2013 BMW 3-Series is safe, fuel-efficient, and well-connected, yet it delivers the class-leading performance and handling that enthusiasts have come to expect. | With attractive designs and a light, efficient driving feel, the 2012 Acura TSX lineup strikes an ideal balance for a front-wheel-drive sport sedan or sport wagon. | Forget that the 2012 Infiniti G Sedans are somewhat practical four-door designs; they can provide all the sensory thrills and dynamic satisfaction of full-fledged sports cars. | The 2012 Lexus IS 350 and IS 350 aren't as focused and fun to drive as sport sedans from BMW or Infiniti, though especially in F Sport guise they still look great. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $35,350 | $32,500 | $32,550 | $30,010 | $36,900 | $40,220 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 15 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Turbocharged Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Compact | Compact Cars | Compact Cars | Compact | Midsize Cars | Sub-Compact |
| Style Name | |||||
| 4dr Sedan C250 Sport RWD | 4dr Sedan CVT FrontTrak 2.0T Premium | 4dr Sedan 320i RWD | 4dr Sedan I4 Auto | 4dr Journey RWD | 4dr Sedan RWD |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| 4 Door Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | Sedan |
| Transmission | |||||
| Automatic | Continuously Variable Ratio | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/manual shift |
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