The rivalry between the BMW 3-Series, the Audi A4, and the Mercedes Benz C-Class is one of the most closely matched rivalries out of the entire German automotive industry. However, the current generation of the Audi A4 is getting on a bit which means that it momentarily lacks both behind the new 3-Series and the brand-new Mercedes C-Class.
The new BMW 3-Series was introduced a year or two ago and still feels as fresh as ever. The 3-Series is now both bigger and longer than the previous F30 BMW 3-Series while still upholding the legendary BMW driving feel. It is a lovely car with the best dynamic capabilities out of its class.
On the other side of the spectrum stands the brand new Mercedes C-Class. The 2022 C-Class got a hefty upgrade and is now more li line with the range-topping S-Class. In the same way the 3-series leads the way in dynamics, the C-Class does so with comfort, technology, and luxury.
Until the new C-Class arrived, the BMW 3-Series was the obvious pick of the range, but with the new C-Class going on sale, the tables have definitely turned and the new C-Class is now the benchmark of the segment.
2022 Mercedes C-Class – Most technologically advanced and most luxurious C-Class yet
The three-pointed star hood emblem is a synonym for luxury, comfort, and class, but the newest generation of Mercedes cars also adds technology as a key factor when it comes to product placement. The C300 should start at around $45,000 and for that price, you are getting a lot.
A 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine making 255hp packed with Mercedes-branded EQ Boost technology which should temporarily add 20hp. 4MATIC AWD is available for around $2,000 and all C300 models come with a 9-speed automatic gearbox that offers seamless shifts and great economy.
The new C-Class looks as bold as ever as it utilizes a more futuristic and angular-looking design when compared to its predecessor. The interior is class-leading by a mile thanks to the class-leading MB UX infotainment system, lovely design touches, and an emphasis on functional minimalism.
The C-Class is a luxury car with an obvious focus on comfort. This means that it does not drive as well as the 3-Series does, but most people who buy the C-Class are not interested in that. All in all, the new C-Class is the new compact luxury sedan benchmark.
2022 BMW 330i – The driver’s choice
The BMW 330i costs around $42,445 and for that money, you are getting a 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder engine that makes 255hp. The 330i also comes exclusively with an 8-speed DCT gearbox that enables lightning-fast shifts and smooth and predictable power delivery. xDrive is available as a $2,000 option.
The 330i feels more youthful and daring both because it is not as well isolated as the C300 and because it holds onto the road a lot better. Where the C300 feels flowy and soft, the 330i feels a bit more planted and keener on changing direction.
Design-wise the 330i is not as attractive as the new C-Class but high-end M Sport models are indeed a lot more aggressive-looking. Interior-wise, the BMW feels more ordinary than the C-Class, yet it offers higher quality build materials.
The BMW also offers more space, but being driven in the 3-Series is nowhere near as exciting as being driven in the C-Class. The 3-Series is still a great luxury compact sedan, but the C-Class simply feels a whole generation newer.
Conclusion – The Mercedes C-Class is the new benchmark luxury compact sedan
The C300 is simply a better though after and more exciting car. While the 3-Series still feels more engaging to drive and is more spacious, the C300 is more luxurious, more comfortable, more technologically advanced, and more desirable.
No wonder the C-Class always was the best sold Mercedes sedan because it offers the right size for the majority of people out there. The reality is that most people buying a compact luxury sedan want comfort, technology, and luxury above everything else, and that’s where the new C-Class excels.
The BMW 3-Series still holds the upper hand when it comes to driving excitement, and if that is your mojo, be sure to opt for the 3-Series.
FAQ Section
Is the 2022 Mercedes C300 more efficient than the BMW 330i?
The BMW 330i is rated at 26MPG in the city and 36MPG on the highway which is a fairly eco-friendly result while the C300 is rated at 23MPG in the city and 33MPG on the highway. The reality is that both of these should be equally as efficient, with the largest difference being your overall driving habits.
It’s worth mentioning that the C-Class feels more at home while simply cruising in comfort because the Sport mode is not all that engaging. On the other hand, the 330i feels more at home in lower gears which means that most drivers are likely going to push the 330i harder.
Is the 2022 Mercedes C300 safer than the BMW 330i?
Safety-wise, both of these two are 5-star rated cars with industry-leading safety assistance systems, but it is worth mentioning that the C-Class does offer more when optioned out fully. There is virtually no difference between these two as far as safety is concerned as they are both superiorly safe.
However, the 330i only gets forward-collision warning and automatic braking as standard while the C300 also comes as standard with lane assist, pedestrian detection, and cruise control.
Is the 2022 Mercedes C300 a better family car than the BMW 330i?
Both of these two premium German luxury compact sedans are great family cars and you should be satisfied with either of them. The BMW does offer a bit more space and is overall a bit more practical, but the C300 is better isolated and it offers a softer ride.
All in all, both of these are great for family use as they balance comfort, space, and price better than the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes Benz E-Class. It’s no wonder why both of these are the best-sold sedan models from both manufacturers as they truly do offer everything you’d wish for from a compact sedan.
