After an almost four-year hiatus, Mercedes-Benz has re-introduced a plug-in hybrid C-Class that's not an AMG C63, offering over 100km of claimed electric range.
Mercedes-Benz Australia has added a plug-in hybrid version of the regular C-Class to the local line-up, supporting the high-performance plug-in hybrid AMG C63 S E Performance.
The plug-in hybrid C350e marks the return of a plug-in hybrid to the non-AMG C-Class range following the discontinuation of the previous-generation C300e in 2021.
The C350e is priced from $98,200 plus on-road costs, and is the only mid-size, plug-in hybrid, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan in the class following the axing of the BMW 330e.
It's a near-match for the $98,100 price of the mild-hybrid C300, despite adding the plug-in system and much more equipment.
Under the bonnet, Mercedes-Benz pairs a 150kW/320Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a 95kW/440Nm electric motor for a combined 230kW and 550Nm.
Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes place in a claimed 6.1 seconds for the C350e, behind not only the 4.6-second C43, but also slightly slower the the 190kW/400Nm C300's 6.0-second rating.
The C350e surpasses the performance-focused C43 AMG by 50Nm (combined), but trails it by 70kW in outright power.
A 25.4kWh lithium-ion battery allows a claimed electric-only driving range of 104km in NEDC lab testing. Recharging from kinetic energy (as the vehicle slows) can take place at up to 100kW.
The C350e is also capable of AC charging at 11kW, or with a $1500 option box ticked, up to 55kW on a DC fast charger. Mercedes-Benz claims charge times of approximately 20 minutes from zero to 80 per cent on a compatible DC charger.
The C350e uses a ‘route based operating strategy’ to maximise efficiency for routes entered via the car’s inbuilt navigation.
By analysing traffic conditions, topography, speed limits and navigation data, the car will automatically adjust how and where it uses the battery to ensure the most efficient energy use.
Fuel consumption is claimed at 1.5L/100km for the C350e, based on lab testing.
The Mercedes-Benz C350e mimics the standard equipment of the C300, with AMG Line styling inside and out, leather upholstery, sports front seats with heating and memory, a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, keyless entry and start, interior ambient lighting, and more.
The C350e also adds features – a number usually optional on a C300 – such as Digital Light matrix LED headlights, a Burmester premium sound system, and comfort suspension with rear self-levelling.
It also picks up the more advanced Driving Assistance Package Plus with a broader range of driver-assist features.
2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class price in Australia
Note: All prices above exclude on-road costs.
2025 Mercedes-Benz C350e standard features include:
Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
