Mercedes-Benz electric C-Class here next year

MERCEDES-BENZ has revealed the new electric C-Class marking a major transformation for its best-selling nameplate with a ground-up EV architecture, extended driving range and flagship-level (from S-Class) technology.

The 2027 C-Class EV range, complementing ICE and hybrid variants, is intended as a segment reset – and strong BMW i3 competitor.

The iconic German manufacturer says it blends the “traditional” Mercedes-Benz values of comfort and refinement with next-generation digital systems and performance offering 760km of WLTP driving range and ultra-fast charging capability.

Enabling the above is a an 800-volt electrical architecture called MB.EA underpinning the model aided by a battery with up to 94.5kWh of usable capacity for rapid DC charging that can add up to a claimed 320km of range in 10 minutes.

At launch next year, the range will be headlined by the dual-motor C 400 4Matic (AWD) electric, producing 360kW/800Nm and capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 4.1 seconds, while maintaining long-distance efficiency through a two-speed rear transmission and “advanced energy recuperation” of up to 300kW.

The front motor can decouple to save energy during constant-speed driving.

A rear-wheel drive C 250, lower powered C 300 4Matic and high-performance AMG model are expected to follow soon after.

Mercedes-Benz says the new electric C-Class delivers “the sportiest C-Class ever”, combining sharp handling with S-Class-like ride comfort through optional Airmatic air suspension and rear-axle steering.

The rear-axle steering system provides up to 4.5 degrees of movement reducing the turning circle to 11.2 metres, while predictive damping technology uses real-time road data to optimise ride quality.

Externally, design shifts toward a more aerodynamic, coupe-like silhouette, highlighted by an illuminated grille featuring more than 1000 individual light elements, and a distinctive GT-style rear with star-themed lighting signatures.

On the inside, the cabin adopts a fully digital, immersive layout centred on a 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen that integrates infotainment, driver display and passenger entertainment into a single seamless unit.

The new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) underpins the experience, enabling over-the-air updates, AI-driven virtual assistant functionality, and deep integration with services including Google Maps and cloud-based navigation.

Mercedes-Benz has also placed a strong emphasis on comfort and wellbeing, introducing features such as massage seats, 4D audio, ambient lighting with sound visualisation, and a panoramic Sky Control roof with 162 illuminated star elements.

Efficiency gains extend beyond the drivetrain, with a multi-source heat pump reducing energy consumption for cabin heating by up to half compared with conventional systems.

Practicality has also improved, with a longer wheelbase delivering increased cabin space, a 470-litre rear boot and an additional 101-litre front storage compartment.

Safety and driver assistance systems have been expanded, with up to 27 sensors and cameras supporting advanced features under the MB.Drive suite, including semi-autonomous driving functions and enhanced parking assistance.

Mercedes-Benz board member Mathias Geisen said the new model represents a defining step forward for the brand.

“With the all-new electric C-Class, we are redefining the segment once again,” he said.

With its blend of long-range capability, high-performance drivetrain and cutting-edge digital architecture, the electric C-Class signals Mercedes-Benz’s intent to push deeper into the premium EV mainstream.

Arrival times Down Under and pricing will be available closer to launch early next year.