What are the differences between the Mercedes-Benz C180L and the Mercedes-Benz C260L?
2 Answers
The differences between the Mercedes-Benz C180L and C260L are as follows: 1. Power: The Mercedes-Benz C180L is equipped with a 1.6T turbocharged engine with a maximum horsepower of 156Ps, while the C260L is equipped with an overseas version of the 1.5T engine + 48V mild hybrid system, with a maximum output power of 184 horsepower and a peak torque of 280N·m. 2. Interior configuration: The Mercedes-Benz C260L is equipped with a panoramic sunroof, while the C180L has a single sunroof. Additionally, the C260L also features wireless phone charging, which the C180L lacks. Other minor details such as seat heating, welcome pedal lights, mirrors, etc., also have certain differences. 3. Driving experience: With the mild hybrid system, the C260L starts surprisingly smoothly, almost imperceptibly to the intervention of the engine start-stop system. From the test drive experience, it can be understood that during acceleration bursts, the power comes directly, as smooth as a large-displacement naturally aspirated engine, without any lag in response.
I've test-driven the Mercedes C180L and C260L several times, with the main differences lying in their engines and performance. The C260L comes equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 204 horsepower. It offers rapid acceleration with strong push-back sensation, making the driving experience significantly more exhilarating than the purely fuel-powered C180L's 170 horsepower—especially when overtaking on highways. In terms of fuel consumption, the C260L's hybrid design reduces urban driving consumption to around 6L/100km, surprisingly more economical than the C180L's 7L+. This makes it quite cost-effective for daily commutes. Interior configurations also slightly differ—the C260L usually comes standard with a large infotainment screen and more driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring, while these may be optional extras on the C180L. Spending tens of thousands more on the C260L is worthwhile if you prioritize power and tech-savvy features. Both models share the same long-wheelbase version with decent rear-seat comfort, suitable for short trips. Overall, the C260L delivers stronger driving pleasure but comes at a slightly higher price.
