The new Mercedes C-Class Electric is positioned as the main competitor of the BMW i3 in the premium business sedan segment, and first impressions show that the competition between the two carmakers remains extremely sharp, Autocar reports.

In the main parameters—range, charging speed, and price, the BMW i3 looks more advantageous: it is cheaper and more technically efficient. However, Mercedes uses the new MLA architecture, which has already been used in some other models of the brand, to strengthen its position in the electric sedan class.

Despite the softer dynamic settings of the platform compared to competitors, the C-Class Electric shows significant progress compared to Mercedes' early electric models, such as the EQE, and is perceived as a more successful step into the mass segment. This car has become larger than its predecessor: it is longer, wider and higher, which is due to the use of a “skateboard” platform, where the body is located above the battery and chassis.

This gives the silhouette a more massive character, although the designers tried to soften the visual weight on the account of the glass roof and tinted elements. The interior is focused on space and comfort.

The cabin has a high level of finish, soft materials, and a “living room” feel, which emphasizes Mercedes’ traditional approach to being premium class. Practicality is also emphasized: a capacious trunk, and an additional compartment under the hood.

The main visual element of the cabin has become a huge screen with a width of about 39.1 inches, which stretches almost the entire length of the panel. It provides high-quality graphics and an impressive appearance, but raises questions in terms of the convenience of climate control and functionality during movement. On the road, the car demonstrates a high level of comfort and noise insulation.

Even the version with a capacity of about 483 horsepower is less noisy in normal mode, maintaining the smoothness of the ride and the “long-distance” character. Sport mode adds rigidity and responsiveness, but makes the behavior more abrupt. Overall, the C-Class Electric is perceived as a mature and comfortable electric sedan, which returns Mercedes to competitiveness in a segment where the “fight” with BMW remains most acute.