2027 Mercedes C-Class Keeps Gas Engine, But Its Looks Borrow From the EV Era

Mercedes-Benz is rolling out the latest version of its compact luxury sedan, and the combustion-powered C-Class is arriving with a familiar core wrapped in styling that nods to its new electric sibling. While the electric C-Class rides on an all-new platform and body, the gas model sticks with the current platform and gets a visual update to closer match the EV.

The front end sees the most noticeable changes, including a taller, narrower grille, larger air intakes, illuminated surround, and three-pointed star motifs in the headlights. However, the side profile gives it away: the same doors and conventional handles remain, unlike the EV's pop-out units.

The rear also gets star elements to match, plus new wheel designs and a couple of fresh exterior colors.

Inside, the cabin is essentially unchanged from the outgoing model, which isn't necessarily a drawback. It keeps the digital instrument cluster and a separate vertical infotainment screen, leaving plenty of dashboard space for premium materials like wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber.

New upholstery colors are also available. Functional tweaks include minor aerodynamic adjustments, a new windshield seal, revised exhaust mounting for less noise, and an upgraded infotainment system that supports the latest features and AI assistant. An augmented-reality head-up display is a new option, along with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, surround-view cameras, and rear automatic emergency braking.

0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with mild hybrid assist, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The notable addition is a small electric supercharger that provides instant boost while the turbo spools up, reducing lag. An overboost function temporarily raises output to 282 horsepower, a seven-horsepower improvement over the current engine.

Mercedes hasn't detailed other powertrain options, but more potent AMG versions are likely on the way. The transmission and suspension are mostly unchanged, though the suspension has been retuned for better ride and handling.

The gas-powered C-Class is expected to go on sale in the first half of next year. Pricing hasn't been announced, but it may land slightly above the current model, which starts at $49,650 plus a $1,350 destination charge. Mercedes appears to be hedging its bets by offering bold styling and high-tech features on the EV for younger buyers, while keeping the combustion version more conventional for those not ready to switch.

With EV adoption slowing, this dual approach could pay off, though it may leave some buyers wanting a fresher gas car, potentially giving BMW an edge in the compact luxury segment.