Review: 2022 Mercedes-Benz C200 - Is the base baby S-Class good enough or well above its weight?

Often regarded as the baby S-Class, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been considered one of the best mid-size executive sedans on the market. The 2022 W206 C-Class continues that tag but in an age where SUVs and crossovers are more in demand, just how well can the venerable sedan cope?

While the Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde is considered the entry variant of the W206 that’s offered in Malaysia, there’s nothing base about this RM 287,888 executive sedan.

Locally assembled (CKD) in Pekan, the C200 Avantgarde loses out on some kit compared to the higher C300 AMG Line that is also CKD. The C200 is powered by a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 204 PS and 300 Nm which makes less power than the 2.0-litre mild-hybrid turbo unit on the C300 (258 PS/400 Nm).

Also read: CKD 2022 (W206) Mercedes-Benz C-Class launched in Malaysia, cheaper by up to RM 17k

The C200 Avantgarde also gets smaller 18-inch 5-spoke alloys and a more traditional hexagonal grille with vertical inner slats. On the other hand, the C300 AMG Line receives 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels and a droopier grille with 3-pointed star pins for that fancy look.

When it comes to a Mercedes though, it’s the interior that really makes the brand called “the best or nothing”, both variants of the W206 come with a large portrait-style infotainment screen that stands out the moment you hop in.

To some, it looks like an iPad that’s grafted on the centre but look beyond that and the large screen makes sense. It’s easy to operate and the resolution is crisp.

Also read: The W223 Mercedes-Benz S-Class’ giant touchscreen is a bad sign of things to come

The biggest improvement on the W206 however, is the way it rides. The last-gen W205 had a bit of criticism in terms of comfort and on the W206, it’s thankfully a lot more bearable with a wafty, almost pillowy ride. Just what you expect from the three-pointed star.

Also read: Review: 2022 (W206) Mercedes-Benz C-Class – More than just the badge, comfort is back!

But would you rather spend less on the C200 Avantgarde or fork out more for the C300 AMG Line that starts from RM 327,888? To answer that question, we’ll hand it over to Adrian in the video to explain more about the C200’s points.