Look Out, i3
It seems like fate will always pit the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series against each other. Granted, the 3 Series just got a full model change, and the C-Class got a heavy update; the two are taking the fight on the electric stage. Just months apart from their respective world premieres, the C-Class Electric and i3 are about to go head-to-head in the sales charts.
BMW and Mercedes took different approaches for electric versions of their vanguard models, and it will be interesting to see how comparison tests pan out. And while i3 has been making the right noises, the C-Class Electric won’t be taking that sitting down.
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Larger Than it Looks
If there’s one thing that the press photos hid well, it’s the actual dimensions of the C-Class EV. While it’s a clear match for cars like the aforementioned i3 and Tesla Model 3, the Mercedes is nearly a size class larger.
It’s something to see in person, but we’ll lay down some numbers to help you visualize it. Official dimensions are 192.2 inches long, 74.5 inches wide, 59.2 inches tall, and a wheelbase of 116.1 inches. For comparison, the BMW i3 is 4.8 inches shorter, 1.1 inches slimmer, and 0.9 inches lower to the ground. The Model 3 is smaller than both the BMW and Mercedes.
Another point of reference is the current E-Class, not the combustion-powered C-Class. The E-Class is 194.8 inches long, 74 inches wide, and 57.8 inches tall, meaning the larger sedan is still longer than the EV C-Class, but actually slightly narrower and has a lower roof. We can only imagine just how big the E-Class EV could get.
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Big on the Inside, Too
Given its generous dimensions and the inherent spaciousness of EVs, the electric C-Class has plenty of room inside. We highly doubt legroom will be an issue, although the sloping roof might make it a little too cozy for taller folks. It’s no limousine, but should be more than enough for most.
As you’ve seen in previous items on this model, the Hyperscreen is, indeed, hyper-sized. It’s an option, so those who think it’s too much will be relieved to know it’s not standard. Either way, though, you’ll still end up with door-to-door screens because a triple display is standard.
Adam Lynton/Autoblog
Size Matters
The C in C-Class never really stood for anything, but it’s long been the compact executive car in the Mercedes-Benz stable for over 30 years. It succeeded the W201, better known as the 190, 190D, and 190E, and while it’s grown over time, it’s not a car we’d call massive.
The C-Class Electric’s size can throw off those accustomed to the dimensions of past models. It’s hard to call this one a compact executive, since it’s bigger in some ways than the E-Class. We’re genuinely curious how the EPA will classify this vehicle, but we’re pretty sure the C no longer means compact.
Mercedes-Benz
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