So you’re about to buy your first(-ish) Mercedes-Benz sedan? Most probably the gurus you’ve consulted made you believe the C-Class is the first car you should own. In the Kenyan market, you’d probably be eyeing the previous generation W205 (probably 2014-2021). There are some things you’d probably need to look out for and of course you’ll need to know what exactly you are paying for.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W205) Model line-up
While previous versions of the C-Class sedan were viewed as the entry point to the world of Mercedes-Benz sedan ownership, all of that changed with the W205 generation. It officially premiered during the last quarter of 2013. The C-Class was offered with the choice of 2 front-end designs: one with a prominent Mercedes-Benz star and one with a classic grille and a smaller star on the bonnet (the 2nd reserved for the Exclusive trim level).
There were various variants released to the customers:
- C180: 1.6-litre, Turbo-charged engine, Petrol
- C200: 2.0-litre Turbo-charged engine, Petrol
- C250: 2.0-litre Turbo-charged engine, Petrol
- C220 Bluetec: 2.1-litre Turbo-charged engine, Diesel
Pros & cons:
Ride comfort:
The German car manufacturer has for a long period prioritized ride comfort. The C-Class was the first car in it’s segment to be offered with air suspension on both front ad rear axles. However, since we’re being frank here, as a buyer of a locally used/ imported unit, one should be wary of such a system. This is because such a system would be costly to repair or replace when the fated day comes. Nevertheless, if you value longevity and a smooth driving experience , you’ll acknowledge that the AIRMATIC suspension is definitely worth it. Most drivers and enthusiasts would agree that the experience of driving with a self-leveling AIRMATIC suspension is way better than with standard coils.
The sitting position is somewhat low though. For people used to SUVs or older people, you’ll definitely need to get used to this. The cabin space is also not the roomiest. From time to time (this is totally dependent on one’s body-size, I’m about 6-ft tall), you’ll find your right leg having to rest on the door. That makes my leg pain a bit especially over long hauls. The leg movement is restricted, meaning that the seat will be all the way back most of the time, negatively impacting rear passenger space for full-sized adults.
Safety Features:
The W205 features a number of advanced safety features.
Collision Prevention Assist:
At speeds of 30 km/h (19mph) and above, the system issues a visual warning if the gap between the driver’s vehicle and the vehicle ahead is too small, with an additional acoustic warning at 7 km/h (4 mph) and above if there is a danger of collision, and provides an adaptive braking assistance function which, depending on the situation, can boost braking if the driver is not braking hard enough. If the driver does not react, now, for the first time in a series-production system, a collision with slower or stopping vehicles ahead when driving at speeds of up to 200 km/h (124 mph) can be prevented or at least minimized by automatic, autonomous partial braking. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 50 km/h (31 mph), and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph).
Disctronic plus:
This helps the driver to maintain a suitable distance, even in stop-and-go traffic. The steering assistance feature is new and helps the driver with lateral control of the vehicle, even on gentle bends, and offers a traffic jam vehicle following function.
Pre-safe brake:
provides autonomous braking in the absence of a driver reaction. In typical urban driving scenarios, it can prevent collisions with pedestrians or stationary vehicles at speeds of up to approx. 50 km/h (31 mph); or, at speeds of up to approx. 70 km/h (43 mph) reduce the impact of such collisions.
Active Blind Spot Assist:
It issues a visual and – if the indicator is activated – an acoustic warning of the presence of a vehicle in the blind spot area; and can prevent a potential side-on collision by applying the brakes unilaterally at the last moment. It helps a lot especially on Kenyan roads where drivers creep up on you.
Active Lane Keeping Assist
The system warns against unintentional drifting across a lane through vibrations of the steering wheel; and if the vehicle actually crosses a lane marking, corrects the vehicle’s position through unilateral brake application. It also applies the brakes unilaterally if the vehicle drifts across a lane marking and the neighboring lane has, for example, oncoming traffic, overtaking or overtaken vehicles in it.
Reliability:
It’s known to be one of the most reliable Mercedes-Benz engines in the past decade. Anyway, any car can last only if and when treated with regular maintenance. Maintainance is more expensive than other cars but if you can find a good mechanic or independent dealer (like DT Dobie) it can be manageable. OEM Mercedes parts and the recommended fluids tend to be more expensive but following the maintenance schedule it can prevent bigger problems. The unexpected breakdowns/issues are more problematic because not all shops can fix them and you often need Mercedes dealer parts. Modern Mercedes are also heavily computerized and have a lot of electronics so you often need a repair shop with the proper diagnostics tools.
What’s the cost & is it worth it?
For most imported units sold at car yards and dealerships, you’ll spend an estimated KES 3,700,000 to KES 7,000,000. Dependent on year of manufacture, mileage, vehicle trim and vehicle grade. It is advisable to do due diligence as you get a unit. Reputable dealerships like Elite Autos have units available for sale. Also be keen to service your vehicle promptly and in case you notice anything off take action!