MERCEDES BENZ C-Klasse T-Modell
Generations Timeline, Specs and Pictures
Mercedes-Benz introduced both body versions for the fifth generation of its C-Class range in 2021, and the station-wagon looked more dynamic than before.
The premium German carmaker had a long history with station wagons, and it didn’t want to drove them away from the assembly line as long as the customers respected it. It didn’t have to. All it had to do was to improve them continuously along with the rest of the range. While its predecessors looked more like family wagons, the 2021 model took a different, sportier approach.
Thanks to its long front end, the C-Class looked sportier than before. That change appeared for the first time on the fourth generation, W205/S205. Then, Mercedes-Benz decided to continue the trend and adopted the same idea on the W206/S206 lineup. Its arched, third side window looked closer to those used for on the CLA shooting-brake.
As usual, the T-model shared most of its parts with its sedan sibling. The carmaker installed the same dashboard with free-standing LCD screens. Customers have a choice between a 10.25” or a 12.3” version. On the center stack, Mercedes-Benz installed another big display tilted toward the driver for the infotainment system, with a standard 9.5” touch-screen and an option for an 11.9”. Its trunk area was increased compared to its predecessor and reached 490 liters (17.3 cu-ft), which could have been extended up to 1510 liters (53.3 cu-ft) by completely folding down the 40/20/40 rear bench.
Under the hood, the C-Class S206 started its journey with a new engine lineup. Its downsizing process, combined with the electrification program, led to higher fuel-efficiencies for the entire lineup. At the new generation’s start, the car received only automatic transmissions.
Based on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class station-wagon (S205), the AMG C63 version was the top-performer of its range.
It offered the highest power and the best technology to make a luxury car goes faster. It was launched in April 2015.
The C63 AMG was the most successful model of AMG vehicles. The second generation lost the naturally aspirated V8 in favor of a twin-turbo 4.0-liter engine. Unlike its rival, the M3, it was also built as a station-wagon, or T-Model as it was named.
When compared with its siblings from the C-Class T-Model, it featured a more aggressive styling. The wide and short grille with the big badge supported by the twin-aluminum wings. The car had to look aggressive but, in the meantime, its aerodynamic was with a purpose. A chromed “V8 BITURBO” chromed badge was installed on each of the front fenders. The longer roofline was sloped toward the back and on top of the tailgate, it featured a roof-spoiler with the third stop-light.
Inside there were sport-bucket seats for the front passengers. The instrument cluster featured two analog dials with a carbon-fiber background. Between the binocular look of the gauges, there was a small TFT display for the on-board computer. For the rear passengers, there was more headroom than in the sedan version. The trunk space could have been extended by folding the split backrest of the bench.
Under the hood, the C63 T-Model was offered in two versions: C63 and C63S. Both featured special suspension with adaptive dampers and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The dynamic engine mounts were fitted as standard on the more powerful C63S and offered as an option for the non-S version.
Mercedes-Benz introduced a significant refresh for the entire C-Class lineup in 2018 and, while the exterior changes were more subtle, the technological improvement was much more important.
The C-Class was on the market since 1993 and has evolved ever since. Its main competitors were the A4 from Audi and the 3-Series from BMW. Later on, the Jaguar joined the category with the XE, and Alfa Romeo made a stunning comeback with the Giulia. But in the station wagon shape, the C-Class T-Model’s opponents remained the German carmakers.
On the outside, the C-Class T-Model received different bumpers for different trim levels. It started with one chromed slat for the standard version and went to up to three chrome-plated trims for the Exclusive version. Its headlights featured a multi-beam system with 84 individual LEDs inside, with an option for ultra range high-beam available as an option. In the back, the power-tailgate was available as an option for lower trim levels and fitted as standard on the upper ones.
The interior went through a major upgrade along with the introduction of the new infotainment system and an option for a full-digital instrument panel with three individual display options. Its touch-sensitive controls from the steering wheel allowed the driver to access the infotainment unit and also access the LINGUATRONIC voice-control system.
Along with the facelifted version, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine on the C-Class T-Model. It was carried over from its bigger brother, the E-Class. The rest of the lineup offered only turbocharged engines. The carmaker paired all versions with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and, for specific engine options, it offered an all-wheel-drive system.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has its place in the premium compact segment.
In 2014, the station-wagon version of the W205 C-Class model was launched. And it changed perspectives.
The T-Model version had a long history in the Mercedes-Benz models lineup and the C-Class always had a station-wagon variant, and the 2014 model was the third generation of it. Mercedes-Benz’s idea was to give the car a sporty look.
It had the same lines as the sedan, up to the B-pillar, and the same front fascia. The longer roof had roof-rails on top and a spoiler on top of the liftgate, which could be opened electrically via a foot-swipe move under the rear bumper. As an option, a panoramic glass-roof was available.
When compared to its predecessor, it had a bigger longer wheelbase by 80 mm (3.14”), which lead to bigger legroom for the rear passengers. The total trunk space reached 490 liters (17.3 cu-ft) of space that could be extended up to 1510 liters (53.3 cu-ft). The sloped rear end made the car look sportier, despite its family-look. The rear seats could have been folded in a split 40-20-40 ratio, unlike the 40-60 as the previous generation. The rear passenger head-room in the back was bigger than in the sedan version.
The estate version was available with a choice of gasoline or diesel engines, with an automatic or manual transmission, with rear or all-wheel-drive.
As with the sedan version, you can consider the Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG T-Modell a bridge between a top-spec C-Class T-Modell and the full berserk C 63 AMG performance model.
It comes with all the exclusive AMG exterior and interior appointments as well as the go-faster technology that comes with the badge.
Mechanically, you get the AMG adaptive suspension, AMG-engineered exhaust system as well as the AMG Dynamic Select feature to control the suspension and power delivery. Speaking of which, the engine is the only thing setting the C 450 AMG apart from the C 63 AMG - a tuned 3-liter V6 mated to a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic gearbox.
Mercedes-Benz introduced a facelift for the C 63 AMG in 2011, showing it to the overall public at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, but did not debut a whole lot of changes in terms of bodywork.
Very slight changes have been operated in the exterior, while the car keeps the same engine as before, which can now be ordered with the AMG Development Package. A reworked apron, grille and daytime running lamps, as well as redesigned headlamps contribute to the novelty of the new C 63 AMG, while the interior now features a new dashboard with LCD screen, a new 3-spoke steering wheel a wide array of optionals.
Mercedes Benz introduced a facelift for their entire C-Klasse range in 2011, showing it to the world at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).
The T-Modell (estate version of the C-Klasse) made no exception, with its exterior suffering only minor changes as compared to the initial S204-based model. The major novelty regarding the facelifted model is the addition of the Eco Start/Stop function on almost all units, aimed at improving CO2 emission levels and fuel consumption. A total of more than 2,000 new components distinguish the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class from its predecessor. Both the Saloon and Estate versions can be ordered from 10 January 2011. The European market launch will take place from March 2011. In addition to the standard appointments - which now include a leather steering wheel - the two design and equipment lines ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE are the basis for the individualisation programme of the C-Class. The two lines are now even more readily distinguishable from each other.
Based on the new C-Klasse estate model, the S204, Mercedes-Benz released the mighty C 63 AMG version.
With the purpose of genuinely balancing comfort, elegance, utility and sportiness, this car announces itself as a refined choice for those who have the wallet for such a car. Performance-wise, this estate boasts the new naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 petrol engine from AMG, with outputs 457 hp and can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, placing it in a very select club. The new 7G-TRONIC SPEEDSHIFT PLUS transmission allows the driver to seamlessly change gear.
Just a few months after the unveiling of the third generation of the C-Class (W204), the station-wagon version was introduced.
It was launched at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The third generation C-Class came into a moment where the previous facelifted version of the W203 faced some reliability issues. To prevent this, the company insisted on extensive testings. By the time of its launch, the C-Class W204 was the most tested vehicle by the German car-maker, with over 24 million kilometers (150 million miles) of testing.
The third generation of the C-Class featured a 5 cm (2”) longer wheelbase when compared with the predecessor. That led to almost the same increase in length, just slightly longer. That led to better legroom for the rear passengers, for which the previous generation was criticized. Due to a longer roof, the rear headroom was no longer a problem for tall passengers. It featured a standard 60:40 split rear bench seat, to increase the trunk space. That lead to an increased load volume of up to 1500 liters (52.9 cu-ft) which was 146 liters (5.1 cu-ft) more than on the previous generation.
For the driver and passengers comfort, the C-Class T-Model featured three versions for the audio system: Audio 20, Audio 50, and COMAND APS. The latter featured a GPS navigation system.
As its smaller sibling, the Mercedes-Benz C 55 AMG Touring model boasts the same impressive set of features that flawlessly complement the driver’s skills.
Powered by the same 5.5 L unit, the T-version boasts increased boot and surprisingly responsive steering complemented by a lower, aggressive road stance. The car comes with a choice of refined upholstery and on-board electronics many of which can be operated by a simple push of a button through the multifunctional driving wheel. The car brings some bling as well through its standard 10-spoke arranged in a tighter 5-spoke configuration alloy wheels, a trade-mark of AMG tuned C-Klasse cars.
The mid-life refresh for the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class range brought more power for the engines, exterior, and interior changes.
The C-Class was a success from its start and the second generation was launched in March 2000 at the Geneva Motor Show. Four years later, the facelift appeared with important changes for especially for the diesel versions, which were upgraded from Euro 3 emission standard to the Euro 4. That change added some power, but it also lost the only AMG diesel version.
From the outside, new headlights, new rear-view mirrors, and taillights were added to the car. The body shape remained the same, with only some subtle changes. There were more trim level to choose from, including “Sport Edition” and “Sport Edition +”.
Inside, the instrument cluster was completely redesigned. Instead of a big, large, speedometer in the middle as in the pre-facelift version, the 2004 C-Class featured two round dials for the speedometer and the tachometer. Between them, there was an LCD display for the on-board computer. Also, the steering wheel was redesigned.
For the engine compartment, the 2.1-liter diesel engine was offered with up to 150 hp. It was the most successful engine for the 2004 C-Class T-Model, with almost 81.000 units sold from a total of 373.873 station-wagon produced. For the gasoline units, there was a new option for the 230 Kompressor, which was not available before 2004 for this body shape. The standard transmission was a 6-speed manual while a 5-speed automatic was offered as an option. Also, 4Matic all-wheel-drive versions were upgraded.
As with most of the German manufacturer’s sale-bombs, some of the 2001 models went on to become even more attractive by passing by the AMG workshops.
Two tweaks of the already popular C-Klasse models were produced, the C 32 and the Diesel-powered C 30 CDI AMG. Both versions were available in all body styles, including the wagon, which was a peppy family car powered by a range of two engines displacing 3.2 L and 3.0 L for the diesel version, developing 354 hp and 231 hp respectively. Although the Diesel spelled more convenience for some buyers, it proved to be slow-selling and ceased production in 2004.
Mercedes-Benz introduced the second generation of the C-Class in 2000 as a sedan and station wagon, named T-Model.
It was a surprising shift in the carmaker design. While the E-Class W210 already sported four round headlights, there were a few that could see the change for its little brother, the C-Class W203. Mercedes-Benz introduced a long list of standard features, even on the base trim level. It faced stiffer competition from the BMW 3-Series Touring and from the Audi A4. But the Merc’ had its aces against them. With its standard speed-limiter/cruise-control, automatic headlights and wipers, and standard ESP, it was on top of its class; again.
The carmaker introduced a slanted front fascia with twin headlights with an option for Xenon headlights. Its smiling grille at the bottom complemented the cooling needed for the AC compressor, which was also a standard feature. On the sides, the turn signals incorporated in the mirrors were an additional safety system. Its wagon shape didn’t provide the largest trunk in its class, but it was stylish with its curved tailgate at the back.
Inside, the carmaker created a dashboard with a unique design for the instrument cluster with a large, half-moon speedometer. Strangely, it didn’t feature a coolant-temperature gauge, but the driver could have seen that by browsing through the complicated onboard computer menu. The C-Class T-Model offered enough room for the front passengers but was limited for the rear ones. Its trunk ranged between 485 liters (17.1 cu-ft) and 1,500 liters (53 cu-ft).
Under the hood, the carmaker carried over most of the engines from its predecessor, but Mercedes-Benz introduced the newly developed 2.2-liter common-rail turbo-diesel engines. The standard transmission for most versions was a six-speed manual, while a new five-speed automatic gearbox (5G-Tronic) was available at extra cost.
Mercedes-Benz introduced the C-Class first generation in 1993 and refreshed the lineup four years later for both versions, the sedan and the station wagon.
The C-Class had a tough job to do. It replaced one of the most iconic cars built by Mercedes to that date, and the customers were reluctant for the new shape of the vehicle. By 1997 though, the customers forgot the 190. The C-Class was a massive success for the three-pointed star brand.
Unlike other former station wagons built by Mercedes-Benz, the S202 was more of a stylish car with a larger trunk than a utility vehicle. It provided less luggage space than its main competitors, but that didn’t matter to them. Its customers preferred them for their sporty yet elegant appearance. At the front, the rectangular horizontal headlights received clear, corner-mounted turn signals. The wrapped-around, body-colored bumper sported a smile-like lower grille, while the central radiator grille wore a chromed finishing in a typical Mercedes-Benz fashion.
Inside, the carmaker offered a wide variety of trims, from simple, black plastic panels to wood veneers or even carbon-fiber-looking adornments on the center stack. For the sport trim level, the carmaker installed bucket seats with higher bolstering than on the rest of the range, and that trim was available even for the station wagon. At the back, the C-Class T-Model featured a 60/40 split-folding bench which increased the trunk space from 465 liters (16.4 cu-ft) to 1,510 liters (53.3 cu-ft).
Under the hood, the carmaker installed a wide engine range, gasoline or diesel-powered. The carmaker paired all of them with either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic.
When Mercedes-Benz replaced the Model 190 in 1993 with the C-Class, it introduced it as a sedan only, while the station wagon showed up later, in 1996.
Mercedes-Benz created the C-Class T-Model (S-202) mainly for those who needed more trunk space, but not necessarily a van-size area. It was more for families who needed room to take the baby strollers or two bicycles with them but didn’t want to show up at work with a vehicle that looked like a delivery van. Mercedes offered its new station wagon in three trim levels: Esprit, Elegance, and Sport.
At the front, the Esprit and the Sport version featured orange turn signal lamps, while the Elegance had them with clear lenses. The radiator’s grille still resembled the classic design with chromed slats and a vertical bar in the middle. Up to the B-pillar, the S-202 used the same body panels as the sedan, but after the C-pillar showed an extended roofline. Regardless of the car color, the B- and C-pillars were black, while at the back, a roof spoiler adorned the top of the arched tailgate.
Inside, there were different color schemes according to the trim level, with a chess-like pattern on the seats and door panels for the Esprit. Depending on the options, the car featured air-conditioning and power windows for all. The sunroof was available as an option. Its 60/40 split-folding rear bench increased the trunk space from a decent 465 liters (16.4 cu-ft) up to 1,510 liters (53.3 cu-ft) when the seatback was folded down.
Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz installed only four-valves per cylinder engines paired as standard to a five-speed manual and an option for a five-speed automatic.