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Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon (2007-2014) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by David Ross Published: 1 September 2023

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 28 - 68 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 running costs can vary wildly depending on your choice of engine. Pricing when new was at a similar level to the previous generation model – but you actually got more car for your money once the superior specification and safety equipment was taken into account. The C-Class will likely continue to hold onto its value better than the equivalent Audi A4 and about the same as a BMW 3-Series saloon.

Fuel consumption – for both petrol and diesel engines is good, although buyers of the top models will be in the higher bands for road tax. Servicing at Mercedes-Benz dealerships can be expensive, but the network of specialist independents is much more affordable.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class emissions are relatively green and easy on the environment depending on which engine you pick. Mercedes introduced BlueEFFICIENCY – its version of BMW’s Efficient Dynamics – to the range. It means the C220 CDI offers 117g/km carbon dioxide emissions and 64.2mpg when ordered with a six-speed manual gearbox.