The Mercedes Benz C Class represents the contribution of the world's oldest German car manufacturer to the luxury compact car segment in 1993. The Mercedes Benz name has long been associated with automobile production that incorporates extraordinarily high standards in terms of engineering, luxury, durability and safety. This line of automobiles lived up to their reputation in 1993 and continues to do so today.

The first generation of C Class sedans was produced under the W202 name and was produced from 1993 until 2000. The line represented the most affordable Mercedes Benz automobile until the introduction of the A Class in 1997. These automobiles were available with a wide variety of engine sizes that were evident in the various model names, such as the Mercedes C320 (3.2 liter engine) and the C240 (2.4 liter engine).The new vehicle earned the instant approval and popular recognition of industry analysts and consumers alike.

The more affordable sticker price is credited with much of that consumer and industry analyst's instant appreciation and respect. Although many of the features of its predecessors, the 190 series, were evident , the car had a fresh exterior design that accentuated curves and deemphasized the straight lines associated with the 190 series. One of the most notable changes to the first generation of C Class automobiles was in 1997 when it received updates that included the addition of a V6 engine.

The second generation, the W203, was introduced in 2000. This new generation sported a more high performance design and was available as a sedan, wagon or hatchback. It was with the introduction of the 2000 model that marked the very first time the number designations within the model names were no longer indicative of the type of engine (the C240 had a 2.6 liter engine and the C200 had a 2.2 liter engine, etc).

The current generation of Mercedes Benz C Class was produced in 2007 and quickly made available for sale in many European countries with two distinct models being made available for sale in the United States. The new North American versions of the are available as the Luxury and the Sport trims. The affordability of the C Class opens the door to the world class Mercedes luxury for a new segment of drivers in the automotive marketplace.