Time to Brush Up on Your Stick Shift Skills
For the first time in many years, Mercedes Benz has taken the somewhat risky maneuver of releasing a manual transmission vehicle. With the C300, Mercedes has thrown down the gauntlet against BMW’s manual 3-series. For the Paramus Post, Mark Maynard took the new six-speed manual C300 Sport for a test run.
According to Maynard, the vehicle feels like a “driver’s car.” Maynard notes that the gear ratios are wide enough to handle traffic without constant shifting. The engine begins to rev at approximately 4500 rpms, signifying time for a gear change. Shifting is simple, and accelerating through a shift is handled easily.
Maynard describes the steering system as similar to that of the BMW, but felt that the C300’s steering was lighter at both low and high speeds. He also notes that the wheelbase is a bit longer than that of the Lexus IS 250, creating a smoother ride at highway speeds.
If you remember struggling to get a stick shift vehicle moving after stopping on a hill, not to worry. The new C300 features a hill-assist system, which holds the car in place briefly to give the driver time to move from the brake to the gas pedal.
The C300 Sport with manual transmission was an unusual move for Mercedes-Benz, but one that could ultimately prove successful. Manual transmissions appear to be making a comeback among drivers who want more interaction with their vehicles.
Of course, if you prefer an automatic transmission, that option is available in the C300 Sport, in the form of Mercedes’ trademark 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic. The 7G-Tronic is standard on the C300 Luxury version as well as the C350.
If you would like to experience the C300 for yourself, drop by our convenient local dealership. This entry-level vehicle retains the luxury for which Mercedes vehicles are famous, while offering sporty features that appeal to many.
Filed Under: Mercedes-Benz Vehicles
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