The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 stands out as a compelling option within the C-Class lineup, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Positioned above the C250 and C300, the C350 sedan delivers enhanced power and a suite of standard features that cater to discerning drivers. Let’s delve into what makes the 2013 C350 a desirable choice, focusing on its specifications, standard equipment, and available options.
Standard Features of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C350
The C350 sedan is exclusively offered in the Sport trim, immediately signaling its performance-oriented nature. It comes generously equipped with features that are optional or unavailable on lower trims. Exterior highlights include 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, and LED running lights, ensuring both style and visibility. Automatic wipers and a sunroof add convenience and open-air enjoyment. Inside, the C350 prioritizes comfort and sophistication with dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, and eight-way power front seats featuring adjustable lumbar support. The seats are upholstered in durable and elegant MB-Tex vinyl, while the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and auto-dimming mirrors further enhance the driving experience.
Alt text: Interior view of a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 dashboard highlighting the COMAND infotainment system and luxurious trim, emphasizing the vehicle’s technology and premium cabin environment.
Technologically, the 2013 C350 is well-appointed. It features a 5.8-inch central display controlled by the COMAND interface, providing access to various vehicle functions and entertainment options. mbrace2 telematics and smartphone integration ensure connectivity, while Bluetooth phone and audio streaming keep you connected on the go. Entertainment is provided by a sound system that includes a CD player, auxiliary audio jack, USB audio jack, and HD radio. Crucially, the C350 standardly includes the Premium 1 package, adding desirable features such as four-way adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, heated front seats for cold weather comfort, driver memory functions to personalize settings, a power-adjustable steering wheel for optimal driving position, and split-folding rear seats for enhanced cargo versatility. Audiophiles will appreciate the included Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface, delivering a premium listening experience.
Optional Packages and Standalone Features for the C350
While the C350 is well-equipped as standard, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of packages and standalone options to further customize the vehicle. For those seeking a sportier aesthetic and enhanced handling, the Sport package adds 18-inch AMG wheels, a rear spoiler, black upholstery with red accent stitching, sport seats and steering wheel, shift paddles for manual gear control, aluminum trim, red seatbelts, and black floor mats with red leather piping.
For enhanced technology and safety, several packages were available. The Multimedia package upgrades the central infotainment screen to a larger 7-inch display and adds a rearview camera for easier parking and maneuvering, a navigation system to guide your journeys, and a six-disc CD changer. The Lighting package improves nighttime visibility with adaptive bi-xenon headlights featuring washers and automatic high beams. Safety-conscious buyers could opt for the Lane Tracking package, which includes a blind-spot warning system and a lane-departure warning system. Furthermore, the Driver Assistance package combines lane departure warning with adaptive cruise control and PreSafe brake, an advanced active braking system designed to mitigate or prevent collisions.
Alt text: Close-up of the 18-inch AMG wheels from the Sport Package option on a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350, showcasing the sporty wheel design and highlighting the performance-oriented upgrades available.
For ultimate luxury, the Full Leather Seating package could be added, featuring extended leather trim throughout the cabin, additional passenger seat adjustments, and passenger seat memory functions. Standalone options offered further personalization, including a rearview camera (if not already included in a package), a panoramic sunroof for sedan models, a power rear sunshade for rear passenger comfort, keyless ignition/entry for convenience, and the Parktronic advanced parking sensor system for effortless parking in tight spaces.
The C350 Advantage
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 differentiates itself from other trims with its more powerful V6 engine and a richer set of standard features. While the C250 and C300 offer efficient four-cylinder and base V6 engines respectively, the C350 provides a significant performance upgrade, making it a more engaging and enjoyable car to drive for those prioritizing power and responsiveness. The inclusion of the Premium 1 package as standard further elevates the C350, offering a level of luxury and convenience that requires additional spending on the lower trims. For buyers seeking a balance of performance and premium features in a 2013 C-Class, the C350 presents a compelling and well-rounded choice.
Conclusion
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 effectively bridges the gap between the standard C-Class models and the high-performance C63 AMG. Its standard V6 engine, combined with a generous list of comfort, technology, and convenience features, makes it an attractive option for buyers in the used car market. Understanding the standard equipment and available options packages allows potential owners to appreciate the breadth of features and customization that were available for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350, and to seek out vehicles that best match their needs and preferences.
