The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300 stands as a testament to luxury and performance in the compact sedan segment. For those considering a pre-owned luxury vehicle, understanding the standard features and available options of the Mercedes Benz C300 2012 is crucial. This article delves into the comprehensive list of equipment that came standard with this model, as well as the packages and standalone options that allowed buyers to customize their ride.
Standard Comfort and Convenience Features
The Mercedes Benz C300 2012 was designed with passenger comfort and convenience in mind. Standard features in this category include:
- Power Tilt/Sliding Sunroof: Enjoy the open air with a power-operated sunroof, featuring express open and close for ease of use.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Maintain optimal cabin temperature for both driver and passenger with independent climate zones and a dust filter for cleaner air.
- 8-Way Power Front Seats with Lumbar Support: Find your perfect driving position with extensive adjustability and lumbar support for enhanced comfort on long journeys.
- Entertainment System: A comprehensive entertainment system featuring CD/MP3/AM/FM/Weatherband radio, HD Radio, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, a sound system with auxiliary input and USB port, and Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling.
- Central Controller with 5.8″ Display: Manage vehicle functions and entertainment through a central controller and a clear 5.8″ display.
- Tilt & Telescoping Steering Column: Adjust the steering wheel for ideal reach and comfort.
- Multifunction Leather Steering Wheel: Control audio, phone, and cruise control functions directly from the leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- 4.5″ Color Instrument Cluster Display: Access important vehicle information at a glance on the vibrant color display in the instrument cluster.
- Practical Interior Features: Front and rear cupholders, rain-sensing intermittent wipers, integrated rearview mirror compass, auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, and an integrated garage door opener add to the daily usability.
- Cruise Control: Maintain a set speed effortlessly on highways.
- Heated Windshield Washer Reservoir: Ensures effective windshield cleaning even in colder climates.
- Power Windows with Express Up and Down: Convenient power windows for all occupants.
- Automatic Headlamps: Headlamps automatically activate in low light conditions, featuring a twilight sensor and locator lighting.
- Trip Computer: Provides essential driving data like fuel consumption, trip distance, and more.
Performance and Handling Dynamics
The Mercedes Benz C300 2012 delivers a balanced driving experience with a focus on both performance and refined handling:
- Powerful Engine: A robust engine producing 228 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 221 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 RPM ensures responsive acceleration and confident highway cruising.
- 7-Speed Automatic Transmission: Smooth and efficient gear changes are handled by a 7-speed automatic transmission.
- Sophisticated Suspension System: The C300 features a front suspension with a 3-link independent strut-type with stabilizer bar and a rear multi-link independent suspension with stabilizer bar, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride.
- Dual Exhaust with Chrome Outlets: Enhances the sporty aesthetic and contributes to engine performance.
Safety and Security as Standard
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the Mercedes Benz C300 2012 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety and security features:
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver behavior and alerts if drowsiness is detected, promoting safer driving.
- ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function: Provides enhanced braking performance and convenience features like HOLD function for effortless stop-and-go traffic.
- LED Lighting: LED Daytime Running Lamps and LED Tail Lamps for enhanced visibility and modern aesthetics.
- Comprehensive Airbag System: Dual two-stage front airbags, side airbags mounted in front seat backrests, head protection curtains, dual front pelvic airbags, and a driver’s side knee airbag provide extensive occupant protection.
- Active Front Head Restraints: Minimize whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.
- 4-Wheel ABS Disc Brakes with Brake Assist System: Powerful and responsive braking with anti-lock brakes and brake assist for emergency situations.
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR): Maintain vehicle stability and traction in challenging driving conditions.
- LATCH System: Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren system for secure child seat installation.
- Antitheft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer: Protects against theft.
- SmartKey with Panic Button: Remote key with panic button for added security.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Continuously monitors tire pressure and alerts the driver to any issues.
Option Packages and Standalone Choices
Buyers of the Mercedes Benz C300 2012 had a range of option packages and standalone options to further personalize their vehicle:
Option Packages:
- Sport Sedan Package (No Charge): Sport suspension, sport bodystyling, aluminum trim, 17″ split 5-spoke alloy wheels, and performance tires.
- Luxury Sedan Package (No Charge): Comfort suspension, comfort headrests, burl walnut wood trim, and 17″ split 5-spoke alloy wheels with all-season tires.
- Premium 1 Package: Heated front seats, SIRIUS® satellite radio, iPod/MP3 Media Interface, harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system, driver’s seat memory and power steering column, split-folding rear seats, and 4-way power lumbar support for the driver.
- Lighting Package: Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, headlamp washing system, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist.
- Lane Tracking Package: Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist for enhanced driver awareness.
- Multimedia Package: COMAND system with hard-drive navigation, 7-inch high-resolution LCD color display, enhanced voice control, SIRIUS® real-time traffic service, in-dash DVD/CD and SD card slot, Gracenote® media database, 10GB hard-drive with Music Register, and rearview camera.
- Full Leather Seating Package: Leather Upholstery and Power/Memory Front Passenger Seat.
Stand Alone Options:
- Mercedes-Benz mbrace™
- iPod®/MP3 Media Interface
- SIRIUS® satellite radio
- Heated front seats
- Burl Walnut wood trim
- 18″ AMG Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels
- 18″ AMG 7-spoke alloy wheels
- PARKTRONIC w/ Parking Guidance
- KEYLESS-GO
- Rear side airbags
- Power tilt/sliding panorama sunroof
Special Order Options:
- Obsidian Black Paint
- Power rear window sunshade
Paint and Upholstery Choices:
The Mercedes Benz C300 2012 offered a variety of paint and upholstery options to suit individual tastes.
Paint Options: Black, Magnetite Black, Mars Red (Sport), Cuprite Brown, Arctic White, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Diamond White, Lunar Blue, Pearl Beige, Sapphire Grey.
Upholstery Options: Black MB-Tex, Almond MB-Tex, Ash MB-Tex, Black Leather, Ash Leather, Almond / Beige Leather (Luxury), Sahara Beige / Black Leather (Sport), Cappuccino Leather (Sport).
Conclusion
The Mercedes Benz C300 2012 provided a luxurious and well-equipped entry point into the Mercedes-Benz sedan lineup. Its combination of standard comfort, performance, safety, and the availability of numerous options and packages made it a highly desirable vehicle. For those in the market for a used luxury sedan, the 2012 C300 remains a compelling option, offering a blend of German engineering and premium features. Understanding these features allows buyers to make informed decisions when considering a pre-owned Mercedes Benz C300 2012.
