New Mercedes C-Class: Plug-in hybrids achieve up to 100 kilometers of electric range
Images: Mercedes-Benz
Alongside the European launch of the first all-electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class, a sedan and a T-Model version with gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains are following. According to the manufacturer, they receive the most comprehensive technical upgrade in the series’ history.
In the plug-in hybrid models of the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz combines an improved four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor producing 100 kW (136 hp). Rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available. The manufacturer states that the high-voltage battery has a usable energy capacity of 19.53 kWh, giving the plug-in hybrids an electric range of up to 100 kilometers according to WLTP standards. These partial-electric vehicles can be charged at up to 11 kW using alternating current sources such as home charging units, and at up to 55 kW at public direct-current fast charging stations.
The new C-Class is available as a plug-in hybrid in models such as the rear-wheel-drive C 300 e, as well as the all-wheel-drive versions C 300 e 4Matic and C 400 e 4Matic, each offered in sedan and T-Model form. The 100 kW (136 HP) electric motor works alongside a 160 kW (218 HP) four-cylinder gasoline engine in the C 300 e, while the C 400 e 4Matic features a 190 kW (258 HP) internal combustion engine. The rear-wheel-drive C 300 e sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 240 km/h. The C 400 e 4Matic sedan reaches 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, with the same top speed of 240 km/h.
In addition to the engines, the C-Class features changes to the body and lighting system. Notable updates include a new grille with a chrome frame and illuminated outline, headlights in a double-star design, as well as a redesigned front bumper. Depending on the market, the central star is also illuminated.
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Inside, two new colors and three new trim pieces are added. Mercedes-Benz also introduces an upgraded Burmester 3D Surround Sound system. Digital upgrades include the Mercedes-Benz Operating System MB.OS, over-the-air updates, and the latest generation of the MBUX system with the AI-powered MBUX Virtual Assistant.
The navigation system has also been improved. It is based on Google Maps and combined with MBUX Surround Navigation as well as Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. The MBUX Virtual Assistant can provide information about navigation destinations and search for available parking spaces during conversations.
The new C-Class also features upgraded driving and parking assistance systems. For example, MB.Drive Assist Plus allows the sedan and T-Model to automatically change lanes on the highway, while MB.Drive Parking Assist assists with parking and reversing. A rear-wheel steering system with a steering angle of up to 2.5 degrees reduces the turning circle by 43 centimeters to 10.64 meters.
"The new C-Class proves that continuity and innovation are not contradictory," says Sales Director Mathias Geisen. "With its sporty elegance, electrified powertrains, and intelligent support from MB.OS, it offers what drivers truly need: proven reliability and innovative technology that creates real value in everyday use. This transforms a familiar classic into a modern companion.
The starting price for the C 200 sedan is 48,844 euros. The plug-in hybrid C 300 e sedan with rear-wheel drive costs from 66,646 euros, while the C 400 e 4Matic sedan requires at least 73,548 euros. For the T-models, the corresponding prices begin at 68,193 euros and 75,095 euros respectively. Pre-orders for all engine options are open on August 18, 2026.
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About the author
Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive and financial industries. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.
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