2027 Mercedes C-Class Wagon Lacks Charisma | Carscoops

      Benz’s updated star-motif LEDs seem to be absent from the back of the revised compact load-lugger.

      16 hours ago

      by Chris Chilton

      The refreshed Mercedes C-Class has been spotted testing in its wagon variant.

      While the estate version showcases star-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs) at the front, it lacks them at the rear.

      A more prominent grille and enhanced MBUX infotainment system can be anticipated.

      BMW is preparing to unveil its all-new Neue Klasse 3-Series in 2026, prompting Mercedes to respond with significant updates to its own luxury compact model, the C-Class, which ranks among its best sellers.

      The key focus is the introduction of the first electric C-Class, set to compete with the first-ever electric 3-Series outside of China. Equally important are the enhancements being made to the combustion model, captured by our spy photographers during tests of the wagon version.

      Exterior Enhancements

      Changes on the exterior primarily target the lights, bumpers, and grille. The front headlight units are equipped with the star-shaped DRLs that Mercedes is now incorporating into its lineup. However, it is peculiar that the rear lights on this wagon do not feature the star-design LEDs.

      It’s common for car prototypes to still have old lights until the launch is imminent, and the last C-Class wagon we observed testing in January also lacked the stars. What makes this situation unusual is that Mercedes has disguised the rear lights, suggesting there might be something hidden that they prefer to keep under wraps.

      When the complete camouflage for the front and rear is removed, likely late this year or early in 2026, we expect to see a more pronounced grille as Mercedes aims to emphasize this feature in its vehicles again, emulating designs from before the 1980s. The grille surround is likely to shift from body color, and the iconic three-pointed star in the center might be illuminated.

      Interior modifications will reportedly include the latest MBUX infotainment system, and advancements in driver-assistance technology are anticipated to match the offerings of the Neue Klasse 3-Series when it becomes available next year.

      Hybrid Power Persists

      This AMG Line-trim C-Class bears EQ badging on its front fenders, but it isn’t a full electric vehicle, as that model utilizes a completely different platform. Instead, the presence of dual filler flaps indicates that it is a plug-in hybrid. Mercedes already offers highly regarded PHEV versions of the C-Class in various countries, though the US market only provides the 255 hp (258 PS) 2.0-liter mild-hybrid C300.

      Europe’s C300e plug-in, with 309 hp (313 PS), currently boasts a WLTP-rated range of 66 miles (106 km), and it’s conceivable that the facelifted model could extract even greater mileage from a charge before activating its four-cylinder petrol engine. If achieved, this would position the refreshed C-Class as a more effective link between traditional combustion engines and full electrification.