2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Even in 2014-guise this Mercedes-Benz C220 Bluetec remains an attractive luxury saloon mainly due to its well-defined sophisticated styling that seems to be ageing very well compared to newer offerings on the market.

 

Specifications:

Model: 2014 Mercedes-Benz C220 Bluetec Avantgarde (A)

Pre-Owned Price: R 279 900

Mileage: 82 800km

Maintenance Plan: Remainder of 6-year/100 000km plan

Fuel Consumption (combined): 4.2-litres/100km

0-100km/h: 7.5 seconds

Contact: Contact George Azzie from Cargo Motors Bedfordview at 087 256 4400

 

Background and condition of vehicle:

• High levels of quality and durability ensures that the C220 is a popular vehicle amongst buyers.
• Especially older year models like our model on test here offer the most car for your buck.
• The interior was especially tidy for the mileage and besides a few small scuffmarks on the lower door trim and some shine on the leather steering wheel, there is not much else that indicates that this is a 6-year old vehicle.
• Although the tyres were not new they certainly won’t need replacing soon.

 

Performance and Economy:

• The 2.1-litre turbo-diesel engine utilized in the C220 Bluetec might not be as refined as some newer offerings on the market but still offers strong performance and economy.
• Maximum power of a 125kW, coupled with 400Nm of torque enables the C220 to blast to a 100km/h in 7.5-seconds, while the top speed is around 230km/h.
• Shifting into the Eco-driving mode and with some careful driving you can also achieve fuel economy figures as low as 4.2-litres per 100km.

 

How does it drive?

• The 7-speed automatic gearbox offers well-spaced ratios combined with butter smooth shifts that truly ensure an effortless driving experience.
• The engine however did seem a bit noisier than I expected, although mostly only noticeable at high engine speeds.
• As expected from a luxury saloon of this calibre the C220 offers occupants a smooth and unflustered ride, with high levels of comfort and ride quality.
• Various driving modes that included Sport, Comfort, Eco and even an Individual setting can be selected to further enhance driver enjoyment or comfort when behind the wheel.
• Wind and road noise in the C-Class also seemed well suppressed.

 

Inside the vehicle:

• Although 6-years old, the C-Class still boasts a stunning interior, with the design dominated by the 8.4-inch tablet like screen and SLS-style bullseye vents.
• The quality leather, beautiful brushed aluminum finishes and the piano black trim still appears modern and stylish.
• Naturally, there is also a full array of luxury features that included:
• Dual-zone Climate Control               
• Adaptive cruise control
• Central Locking
• Electronic handbrake
• LED Day-time driving lights                               
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Infotainment system with screen
• USB connection and 12V port
• On-Board trip computer
• Front and side airbags (7)
• Cupholders
• Isofix rear seats        
• ABS braking with EBD Stop/Start
• Traction and stability control
• Sport, Comfort, Economy driving modes
• Multi-function steering wheel
• Park distance control front and rear
• Paddle shifters
• Tyre pressure monitor
• Voice command
• Leather upholstery
• Auto headlights on
• Tow-Bar
• Rain sensor
• Active Park Assist
• Electric windows                                                                                                         

 

Space and Practicality:

• Finding a comfortable driving position in the C220 is easy with lots of adjustments available.
• The C220 felt spacious in the front, with ample head and shoulder room.
• In the back, the C-Class offers decent amounts of room, although not quite as much as I expected. This said four adults can easily travel in style.
• Although the 480-litres of boot space is pretty average in this sector of the market, the boot has a wide opening allowing for easy loading of larger objects.

 

The verdict: 

• Al be it 6-years old the C220 still scores high marks in terms of quality and design.
• Overall the C220 in pre-owned guise offers a strong package, backed up by excellent residual values, high levels of comfort, as well as strong performance and frugal fuel economy.
• At only R 279 900 it certainly offers a lot of car for your money.

 

• Quality materials
• Durability
• Good performance and fuel economy
• Lots of car for the money

X  Engine not as refined as some newer offerings on the market

X  No key-less entry