2009 Mercedes-Benz C Class - Quality Review

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The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers exceptional build quality and a quiet ride, but comfort on longer drives or in the backseat remains an issue.

As the entry-level vehicle to the Mercedes-Benz fold, the C-Class doesn't fail to deliver the typical Mercedes-Benz build quality. Reviewers tend to agree, with ConsumerGuide raving about the "nicely padded surfaces and upscale trim" and Kelley Blue Book mentioning the "tasteful wood inlays" that "surround the cabin." Edmunds judges the interior of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class to be "beautifully crafted," and overall they feel that the car sports "excellent build quality."

The rear seats of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class are a different story, however, as reviews read by TheCarConnection.com find them to be both uncomfortable and cramped. Edmunds feels that, although the interior is larger, it is simply "not very spacious" in back, and Cars.com adds that the "three-place rear seat is on the smallish side, with limited legroom and headroom." The front seats of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class draw praise from reviewers, with ConsumerGuide deeming them "supportive and comfortable" and claiming that "even taller folks should find adequate headroom and legroom." Cars.com agrees, adding "it's easy to find a comfortable driving position," thanks to a front cabin that "doesn't have the cramped feel of the 3 Series sedan."

Storage space, especially in the trunk, is adequate. Edmunds states that "trunk capacity is 12.4 cubic feet, which can be expanded with the optional split-folding rear seats." ConsumerGuide feels that "the trunk is narrow," but the overall "area is quite deep and nicely trimmed." However, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class loses points for cabin functionality; ConsumerGuide reviewers notice "interior storage is adequate at best with a somewhat skimpy center console, two open console cupholders, and a decent-sized glovebox."

Where the Mercedes-Benz C-Class really exceeds expectations is with its interior quietness. Reviewers praise the "level of serene isolation" that ConsumerGuide feels "few in the class can provide." Edmunds also uses the term, asserting that the C300 Luxury offers a "more serene driving environment" than the Sport version, which is to be expected, given the "quieter exhaust system."