2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan: Models, Specs, and What's New
Shop 2026 C-Class InventoryValue Your TradeSchedule a Test Drive
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan pairs a 255-hp turbocharged inline-4 with a 48V integrated starter-generator mild hybrid system. The 4MATIC® all-wheel drive variant is available across the lineup, and the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE reaches 671 hp with a rear electric motor. This page covers every model, key specs, and standard features, with current inventory available at Mercedes-Benz of Tuscaloosa.
What's New for 2026
The 2026 C-Class carries forward its third-generation MBUX platform with one notable connectivity addition: standard 5G connectivity across the lineup. The Digital Key system, which lets drivers unlock and start the vehicle using an iPhone or Apple Watch and supports pairing up to 32 devices, is now a standard feature. The fingerprint scanner on the center console for driver-profile recall is also included, reducing the steps required to personalize the driving environment.
On the safety side, Active Brake Assist with Turning and Cross-Traffic Function, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Blind-Spot Intervention, and Evasive Steering Assistance are listed as standard equipment for 2026. The PRE-SAFE Impulse Side system, which rapidly inflates a seat-bolster chamber to move occupants away from the door during an impending side impact, is available on all models via the Driver Assistance Package.
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE continues as the range-topping variant with 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful 4-cylinder in production, according to Mercedes-Benz USA. Its 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds is unchanged, and the vehicle carries a 36 / 38 MPGe city / highway rating.
Model Lineup
The 2026 C-Class Sedan is offered in four configurations.

C 300 Sedan (RWD)
C 300 Sedan (RWD) is the entry point into the lineup. It is powered by the 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 with 48V mild hybrid drive, delivers 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, and is paired with the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include heated power front seats with memory, 64-color LED ambient lighting, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.9-inch MBUX touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a power tilt/sliding sunroof. The KEYLESS-GO system and HANDS-FREE ACCESS are also standard.

C 300 4MATIC® Sedan (AWD)
C 300 4MATIC® Sedan (AWD) adds Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC® all-wheel drive and the 4-wheel Electronic Traction System. The powertrain output is identical at 255 hp, though fuel economy adjusts to 24 city / 33 highway mpg. Heated windshield washers are standard on this variant. All other C 300 content carries over.

Mercedes-AMG C 43 Sedan (AWD)
Mercedes-AMG C 43 Sedan (AWD) steps up to a handcrafted AMG 2.0L inline-4 with an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger and a hybrid starter-generator, producing 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed. The C 43 reaches 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. Standard AMG-specific content includes AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, active rear-axle steering, a 3-stage AMG parameter steering rack, AMG illuminated front door sills, a flat-bottom AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather, brushed stainless steel pedals, and Black MB-Tex/microfiber upholstery with red stitching. The Surround View System and GUARD 360 security system are also standard on the C 43. Fuel economy is rated at 19 city / 27 highway mpg.

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE Sedan (AWD)
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE Sedan (AWD) is the performance hybrid flagship. It combines a handcrafted 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 with an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger and a rear-mounted 150kW permanently synchronous electric motor, drawing from a 6.1-kWh ultra-lightweight battery. System output is 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque. The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system features an AMG Electric Drive Unit with a 2-speed gearbox at the rear axle. The C 63 S E PERFORMANCE reaches 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. Standard content on this model includes the Burmester 3D Surround Sound System, enhanced ambient lighting, MB Navigation, a panorama roof, leather upholstery, RACE and Drift modes via AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, and the AMG Real Performance Sound system. The AMG High-performance Composite Braking System is also standard.

Performance and Powertrain
The C 300 and C 300 4MATIC® share a single powertrain: a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 with NANOSLIDE cylinder wall technology, direct injection, multispark ignition, and an integrated 48V starter-generator providing mild hybrid assist. Output is 255 hp at 5,800 rpm and 295 lb-ft between 2,000 and 3,200 rpm. The 9G-TRONIC automatic handles gear changes. DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes are standard. The RWD C 300 is rated 25 city / 35 highway / 29 combined mpg. The 4MATIC® version is rated 24 city / 33 highway mpg.
EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2026 C-Class
The Mercedes-AMG C 43 uses an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger to eliminate turbo lag. Output is 416 hp at 6,750 rpm and 369 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm, sent through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed to AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is 19 city / 27 highway mpg.
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE runs the P3 Performance Hybrid System. The front axle is driven by the combustion engine; the rear axle is driven independently by the 150kW electric motor through a 2-speed gearbox, allowing torque vectoring between axles. System output is 671 hp and 752 lb-ft. The 0-60 mph time is 3.3 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 36 / 38 MPGe.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
All C-Class Sedan models seat 5 and provide 11.6 cubic feet of trunk space. Front headroom measures 40.0 inches on the C 300 variants and 41.0 inches on the Mercedes-AMG models. Front legroom is 41.7 inches across the lineup. Rear legroom is 36.0 inches on all four models.
Standard comfort features on the C 300 include dual-zone automatic climate control, heated power front seats with three memory positions, 64-color LED ambient lighting, MB-Tex upholstery, a Crystal Grey fabric headliner, power-folding side mirrors, an electronic trunk closer, and a garage door opener. The KEYLESS-GO proximity entry system and HANDS-FREE ACCESS trunk release are standard on all models.
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE adds a standard panorama roof, enhanced ambient lighting, leather upholstery, MB-Tex upper dash trim, and AMG illuminated front door sills. Ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, Nappa leather upholstery, and multicontour front seats are available across multiple models.
The 40/20/40-split folding rear seat is standard on all configurations, extending cargo flexibility.


Technology and Infotainment
All 2026 C-Class Sedans are equipped with the third-generation MBUX system, which includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch central touchscreen with the Zero-layer menu concept. Navigation through menus requires fewer taps due to contextual content surfacing on the home layer.
Voice Control with Natural Language Understanding responds to "Hey, Mercedes" and handles requests without requiring precise command phrasing. Biometric authentication via fingerprint scanner on the center console recalls a driver profile immediately. MBUX profiles, routines, and templates allow multiple drivers to maintain personalized settings.
Standard connectivity includes wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, a front-cabin wireless charging pad with NFC pairing, Bluetooth audio streaming, a USB-C port, and HD Radio. SiriusXM with 360L is included as a trial subscription. 5G connectivity is standard across the lineup.
The Digital Key system allows the vehicle to be unlocked and started with an iPhone or Apple Watch. Up to 32 devices can be paired. Remote Start is available via the Mercedes-Benz app, which is also compatible with Android phones. Over-the-air software updates are handled through Mercedes-Benz Digital Extras, which includes one year of service.
Optional multimedia upgrades include MB Navigation with MBUX Augmented Video, a Head-Up Display, the Burmester 3D Surround Sound System, in-car WiFi, and the MBUX Entertainment Package Plus. The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE includes the Burmester system and MB Navigation as standard equipment.
Safety and Driver Assistance
All 2026 C-Class Sedans include a robust suite of standard safety systems. PRE-SAFE and PRE-SAFE Sound prepare occupants for an impending collision by tensioning seat belts and adjusting audio to protect hearing. ATTENTION ASSIST monitors driver alertness. Active Brake Assist with standard Adaptive braking technology can respond to pedestrians in the vehicle's path. Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist uses radar to monitor adjacent lanes and alerts the driver when opening a door into traffic. PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist supports parallel and perpendicular parking. LED headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist are standard. Seven airbags, including a front center airbag, are fitted to all models.
The GUARD 360 security system and rear side-impact airbags are standard on the Mercedes-AMG C 43 and Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE.
The available Driver Assistance Package adds Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist with Turning and Cross-Traffic Function, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Automatic Lane Change, Active Speed Limit Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Active Steering Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, PRE-SAFE PLUS, PRE-SAFE Impulse Side, Route-based Speed Adaptation, and Extended Restart in Stop-and-Go Traffic.
The 2026 C-Class Sedan is covered by a 4-year / 50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Coverage terms, exclusions, and owner responsibilities are defined in the Mercedes-Benz warranty documentation.

Who It's For / vs the Prior Year
The 2026 C-Class Sedan suits buyers who want a compact luxury sedan with a genuine performance ladder, from a capable and fuel-efficient RWD daily driver at the C 300 level to a 671-hp performance hybrid at the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE level. The standard 5G connectivity and Digital Key pairing for up to 32 devices are meaningful additions for buyers who prioritize connectivity.
Buyers upgrading from the prior C-Class will find the MBUX interface unchanged in layout but enriched by the 5G tier and the fingerprint-based profile recall now standard rather than optional. The Mercedes-AMG variants gain no output changes but receive continuous AMG-specific packaging refinements. The mild hybrid system on the C 300 continues to distinguish the base powertrain from non-electrified competitors in this segment by supporting smoother stop/start behavior and mild torque assistance under acceleration.
Buyers seeking AWD in a non-AMG configuration should compare the C 300 against the C 300 4MATIC® closely, the RWD model's fuel economy advantage at 29 combined mpg may be a deciding factor in warmer climates.
Feature availability, package content, warranty coverage, fuel economy, performance figures, Digital Extras, and equipment may vary by model, production timing, driving conditions, and vehicle-specific configuration. Confirm all specifications and coverage terms on the specific vehicle before purchase or lease.
See the 2026 C-Class at Mercedes-Benz of Tuscaloosa
The full 2026 C-Class Sedan lineup, from the C 300 through the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE, is available at Mercedes-Benz of Tuscaloosa. Current inventory spans all four models. The team can walk you through available option packages, model-level comparisons, and the Digital Key setup process in person.
Shop 2026 C-Class InventoryValue Your TradeSchedule a Test Drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan use?
The C 300 and C 300 4MATIC® use a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 with a 48V integrated starter-generator mild hybrid system producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Mercedes-AMG C 43 uses a handcrafted version of the same displacement with an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger making 416 hp. The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE pairs that engine with a rear 150kW electric motor for 671 hp total.
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 C 300 Sedan?
The rear-wheel drive C 300 is EPA-rated at 25 city / 35 highway / 29 combined mpg. The 4MATIC® all-wheel drive version is rated at 24 city / 33 highway mpg.
Does the 2026 C-Class have wireless Apple CarPlay?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard on every 2026 C-Class Sedan model.
What is the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE 0-60 time?
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE reaches 60 mph in 3.3 seconds, using a combined system output of 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 2.0L engine and 150kW rear electric motor.
Is AWD available on the standard C 300?
Yes. The C 300 4MATIC® Sedan adds Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC® all-wheel drive and the 4-wheel Electronic Traction System while keeping the same 255-hp engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission as the RWD model.
What does the Digital Key feature do on the 2026 C-Class?
Digital Key lets the driver unlock and start the vehicle using an iPhone or Apple Watch. Up to 32 devices can be paired to a single vehicle.
What warranty comes with the 2026 C-Class Sedan?
The 2026 C-Class Sedan is covered by a 4-year / 50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Coverage terms, exclusions, and owner responsibilities are defined in the Mercedes-Benz warranty documentation.
What driver assistance features are standard on the 2026 C-Class?
Standard driver assistance features include Active Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and PRE-SAFE with PRE-SAFE Sound. The optional Driver Assistance Package adds Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE PLUS, PRE-SAFE Impulse Side, and several additional systems.
AMG® and 4MATIC® are registered trademarks of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
Android Auto™ is a trademark of Google LLC.
Apple CarPlay® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.
harman/kardon® and Logic 7 are registered marks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated
Burmester® is a registered trademark of Burmester Audiosysteme GmbH, Berlin, Germany
Bluetooth® is a registered mark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
AdChoices