MERCEDES-BENZ C 300

Driving the most potent non-AMG C-Class in India is a grin-inducing experience

- ABHAY VERMA

MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS C 300

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol Power: 258PS @ 5,800rpm Torque: 400Nm @ 2,000 - 3,200rpm

Weight: NA Gearbox: 9-speed automatic Price: 69 lakh ex-showroom

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300d has always held a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. Yes, diesels aren’t exactly hailed by ‘petrolheads’, unless, of course, we’re talking oil burners with six cylinders or more. But despite its relatively humbler four-pot engine, the C 300d has even had automotive journalists give it a big thumbs up with its torquey feel and overall performance. But with the market moving away from diesels and towards petrol, hybrid and electric powertrains, it isn’t surprising that Mercedes-Benz has axed the oh-so-affable C 300d.

But the good news is, the German luxury car maker has replaced it with the C 300 petrol! This is a different motor though and not the AMG C 43’s four-pot turbocharged petrol engine (codenamed M139). It is, of course, a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine (codenamed M254) and boasts peak outputs of 258PS and 400Nm. Yep, the numbers are down from the C 300d’s 265PS and 550Nm. Reason to complain? A couple of days of driving the C 300, including a round trip to Mumbai sprung up some interesting surprises.