The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 marked the beginning of the fourth generation C-Class (W205), setting a new benchmark in the compact executive sedan segment. Combining luxury, performance, and advanced technology, the 2015 C300 appealed to a wide range of drivers seeking a sophisticated and engaging driving experience. This article delves into the standard equipment, performance specifications, safety features, and available options for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and enthusiasts alike.
Comfort and Convenience Features of the 2015 C300
The interior of the 2015 C300 is designed with comfort and convenience in mind, offering a range of standard features to enhance the driving experience. Both the C300 and C300 4MATIC models come equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring personalized comfort for both the driver and passenger. Power front seats with driver memory allow for customized seating positions, while the multifunction leather steering wheel provides easy access to vehicle controls.
For in-car entertainment, the 2015 C300 includes an audio system with a single-disc CD player, USB port with iPod interface, Bluetooth audio streaming, and HD Radio. Bluetooth interface for hands-free phone use and a central controller with a 7″ high-mounted display further enhance connectivity. Practicality is addressed with front and rear cupholders, power tilt and telescoping steering column, electronic cruise control, and power windows with express up and down.
Additional standard convenience features include automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting, a trip computer, auto-dimming driver & rearview mirror, power folding mirrors, an integrated garage door opener, and intermittent wipers with a rain sensor. Split-folding rear seats add versatility for cargo management, while the touchpad and KEYLESS-START system offer modern ease of use. The AGILITY SELECT system allows drivers to tailor the car’s driving dynamics to their preferences. Heated front seats, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, Burmester Premium Sound system, LED Headlights, and KEYLESS-GO were available as optional upgrades for those seeking even more luxury and technology.
2015 C300 Performance and Handling Specifications
Under the hood, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 and C300 4MATIC models share a responsive 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine delivers 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque between 1,300 and 4,000 rpm. The maximum engine speed is 6,500 rpm, and both models achieve a top speed of 130 mph (electronically limited). Power is delivered through a 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic transmission with Touch Shift, ensuring smooth and efficient gear changes. The ECO Start/Stop system further enhances fuel efficiency.
The chassis of the 2015 C300 is engineered for a balance of comfort and dynamic handling. Both the front and rear suspensions are multi-link designs, providing refined ride quality and precise control. The C300 features rear-wheel drive, while the C300 4MATIC is equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Both models have dual exhaust with two chrome outlets. Braking is handled by single-piston floating calipers at both the front and rear for the C300 and C300 4MATIC. Tire sizes are 225/50 R17 all-season for the front and 245/45 R17 all-season for the rear on both models.
In comparison, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C400 4MATIC boasts a more powerful 3.0-liter V6 bi-turbo engine, producing 329 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 354 lb-ft of torque from 1,600 to 4,000 rpm. It shares the same 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic transmission and 130 mph top speed. However, the C400 4MATIC features upgraded front brakes with four-piston fixed calipers and larger wheels and tires: 225/45 R18 all-season front and 245/40 R18 all-season rear.
Safety and Security Features of the 2015 C300
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2015 C300 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety and security features. These include a New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty and a 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program, providing peace of mind for owners. The Mercedes-Benz Maintenance System helps ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition.
The C300’s structure incorporates a high-strength steel reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones to enhance occupant protection in collisions. The Supplemental Restraint System includes an occupant sensor, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners & dual-stage belt force limiters, front dual-stage airbags, combination thorax/pelvis side airbags for the driver and front passenger, front and rear side window airbags, and a driver knee airbag. ISOFIX anchor and tether system are included for child seat safety.
Electronic safety systems are also prominent, featuring Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR). The ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness monitor helps prevent fatigue-related accidents, while an anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button enhance security. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System and PRE-SAFE anticipatory safety system are also standard, along with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) PLUS to mitigate or prevent frontal collisions.
Options and Packages for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300
To personalize the 2015 C300, Mercedes-Benz offered a wide array of optional features and packages.
Paint Options: Standard paint choices included Black and Polar White at no extra cost. Metallic paint options such as Dakota Brown, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Lunar Blue, Obsidian Black, and Diamond Silver were available for an additional charge. The designo Diamond White metallic paint was a premium option.
Upholstery Options: Standard upholstery was Black MB-Tex, with Silk Beige/Black MB-Tex and Ash Grey/Black MB-Tex also available at no cost. Ash Grey/Deep Sea Blue MB-Tex and Silk Beige/Espresso MB-Tex were also offered. Leather upholstery upgrades in Black, Silk Beige/Black, Ash Grey/Black, Silk Beige/Espresso, and Cranberry Red/Black were part of the Interior Package.
Trim Options: Aluminum/High-Gloss Black trim was standard. Optional trim choices included Open-Pore Black Ash Wood, Burl Walnut Wood, and Linden Wood.
Packages: Several packages bundled popular options together. The Premium Package included LED Headlights, SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio, Burmester Premium Sound, Heated Front Seats, and KEYLESS-GO. The Luxury Package for C300/C300 4MATIC featured 17″ Split 5-Spoke Wheels, Comfort Suspension, a Luxury Grill with ‘Standing Star’, Burl Walnut or Brown Fineline Trim, and MB-Tex dashboard. The Lighting Package added Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Dynamic LED Headlamps. The Multimedia Package provided the COMAND system with navigation, a larger 8.4″ screen, rearview camera, and more. The Sport Package (standard on C400 4MATIC) included AMG wheels, sports suspension, AMG bodystyling, sport seats, and other sporty enhancements. Additional packages included the AIR BALANCE Package, AIRMATIC Package, Interior Package, Driver Assistance Package, and Hands-Free Access Package.
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 offered a compelling combination of standard luxury, performance, and safety, further enhanced by a wide range of customizable options and packages. It solidified its position as a leading choice in the entry-level luxury sedan market, appealing to discerning drivers seeking a refined and engaging vehicle.