2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupe: The Ultimate Luxury Performance Coupe

Key Takeaways: The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupe represents a dramatic evolution from its predecessor, offering stunning S-Class-inspired styling, a premium interior that outclasses competitors, and refined driving dynamics that blend comfort with capable performance. While not as sporty as some rivals, it excels as a luxury grand tourer with superior build quality and technology.

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A Complete Transformation From Its Predecessor

The previous-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe, last available as a 2015 model, failed to make a significant impression in the competitive luxury coupe segment. Lacking all-wheel-drive options and distinctive styling, it often faded into the background against more compelling offerings from BMW and Audi. Mercedes-Benz itself acknowledged the model's compromises in both marketing materials and dealer communications.

This all changed dramatically with the introduction of the second-generation C-Class coupe for 2017. The new model arrived first in C300 4Matic trim, showcasing a comprehensive redesign that addressed every weakness of its predecessor while introducing class-leading luxury features and technologies.

Dimensions and Platform Improvements

The 2017 C-Class coupe benefits from:

• Increased length and width for improved interior space and stability
• Lower roof profile enhancing its sporty coupe proportions
• Refined suspension geometry for better ride and handling balance
• Advanced materials including high-strength steel and aluminum components
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Exterior Design: S-Class Inspiration

Mercedes-Benz took a radically different approach with the 2017 C-Class coupe's styling, drawing clear inspiration from the flagship S-Class coupe and AMG GT sports car rather than simply adapting the C-Class sedan's design.

Distinctive Styling Elements

• Front fascia with single horizontal grille strake (versus the sedan's dual strakes)
• Continuous character line flowing from headlights to taillights
• Lower, more tapered roofline with smaller window openings
• Horizontal taillight design emphasizing width and presence

The result is a coupe that stands distinctly apart from its four-door sibling while maintaining clear Mercedes-Benz design DNA. The "lozenge" profile—tapered at both ends—creates dynamic proportions that appear elegant from every angle.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The C300 coupe launched with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive configurations.

Key Performance Specifications

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Driving Experience

The C300 coupe delivers strong low-end and mid-range torque, making it feel particularly responsive in urban driving situations. While it runs out of steam at higher RPMs, the powertrain is well-matched to the car's grand touring character.

Mercedes' Dynamic Select system offers five driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual) that adjust:

• Throttle response
• Transmission shift points
• Steering weight
• Suspension firmness (with optional Airmatic)

The optional Airmatic air suspension ($1,190) transforms the coupe's ride quality, delivering exceptional bump absorption while maintaining composed handling. Even in its firmest Sport+ setting, the C300 prioritizes comfort over outright sportiness—a deliberate choice that leaves more extreme performance to the upcoming AMG variants.

Interior: Class-Leading Luxury

Where the C300 coupe truly distances itself from competitors is in its interior execution. The cabin quality approaches S-Class levels of luxury, with meticulous attention to materials and craftsmanship.

Interior Highlights

• Premium materials throughout including real metal, wood, and soft-touch surfaces
• Optional full leather upholstery in distinctive colors like saddle brown or cardinal red
• Precision-fit components
• Standard panoramic moonroof
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• Excellent front seat comfort

While the front cabin is spacious and comfortable, rear seat accommodations are typical of the class—sufficient for children or occasional adult use, but not designed for regular passengers. The coupe's dramatic roofline and small windows create a somewhat claustrophobic rear environment.

Technology and Features

The C300 coupe came well-equipped with Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system, though it notably lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility at launch. The interface uses a central controller knob supplemented by touchpad input and hard buttons for major functions.

Available Technology Features

• COMAND navigation
• Burmester premium audio
• Active parking assist
• 360-degree camera system
• Adaptive cruise control

While the system works well, some competitors offered more intuitive interfaces at the time. The lack of smartphone integration was a notable omission in this tech-focused segment.

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Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2017 C300 coupe introduced several advanced safety features as standard equipment, including:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking

Additional safety technologies were available through optional packages:

• Blind spot monitoring
• Lane keep assist
• Adaptive high beams
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Competitive Landscape: How the C300 Coupe Stacks Up

The luxury compact coupe segment featured several strong competitors in 2017, each with distinct strengths:

BMW 428i xDrive

• Advantages: Sportier handling, better fuel economy (22/34/26 mpg), more cargo space
• Disadvantages: Less luxurious interior, less distinctive styling

Cadillac ATS 2.0T AWD Coupe

• Advantages: Sharper handling, more powerful engine (272 hp)
• Disadvantages: Inferior interior quality, less brand prestige

Lexus RC 300 AWD

• Advantages: Unique styling, renowned reliability
• Disadvantages: Heavier, less efficient, controversial infotainment

The Mercedes-Benz C300 coupe carved out a unique position in this competitive field by offering superior interior luxury and refinement while maintaining competitive performance metrics.

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Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2017 C300 coupe started at $43,575 (including destination) for the rear-wheel-drive model, with the 4Matic AWD version beginning at $45,575. However, most dealers stocked well-equipped examples with popular options that pushed prices into the $50,000-$60,000 range.

Notable Options and Packages

• Premium 1 Package ($2,550): Keyless entry, power trunk, ambient lighting
• Premium 2 Package ($3,300): Adds navigation, blind spot monitoring, satellite radio
• Airmatic Suspension ($1,190): Adaptive air suspension
• Sport Package ($2,300): AMG styling, sport seats, performance brakes

While not inexpensive, the C300 coupe delivered a more authentic luxury experience than similarly priced competitors, justifying its premium positioning through exceptional materials, build quality, and brand cachet.

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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the C300 Coupe?

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupe represents an ideal choice for:

• Luxury-focused buyers who prioritize interior quality over outright sportiness
• Style-conscious drivers seeking S-Class-inspired design in a more compact package
• Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts wanting the latest technology and refinement
• Urban professionals who value comfort and prestige in daily driving

For those seeking more performance, waiting for the C43 AMG or C63 AMG variants would be advisable. However, as a stylish, refined luxury coupe, the C300 delivers an exceptional ownership experience that few competitors could match in its price range.

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