Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Fuel economy, running costs and specs by model year

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class appears in this database in 5 model years, from 2016 to 2020, offered with gasoline and plug-in hybrid power. Combined economy ranges from 19 to 30 MPG across those years, with annual fuel costs of $2,650 to $4,200 at 15,000 miles.

Fuel economy by year

How it compares

Against the average subcompact cars in this dataset (about 27 MPG), the C-Class sits roughly 3 MPG below that mark on average, making it a thirstier-than-average choice for its class.

Five-year fuel cost

Fuelling a C-Class for five years at the EPA's 15,000-mile basis costs roughly $13,250 to $21,000, averaging about $17,125 across the versions here. That is the energy bill alone — it excludes insurance, maintenance and depreciation, which for most owners together exceed what goes into the tank.

The range within the range

Economy across the C-Class varies by about 11 MPG between its most and least frugal versions, which run on gasoline and plug-in hybrid. Engine size, turbocharging, drivetrain and even wheel size explain most of that gap, so when you shop a used C-Class check which version you are looking at before comparing its running cost to another car.

How it changed over time

Between 2016 and 2020 the C-Class's average combined economy slipped from about 25 to 24 MPG. Redesigns, new engines and added hybrid or electric versions are usually what move the number, so the year you choose can matter as much as the model.

Best year for fuel economy

The 2016 C-Class has the strongest average combined economy in this database at about 25 MPG, while the 2019 is the lowest at about 23 MPG. If running cost is your priority, that is the year to target on the used market; later years may add equipment or safety features instead.

2020 C-Class at a glance

Use the comparison tool to set the C-Class against a rival, or go back to all Mercedes-Benz models.