Tynan Motors Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz C350e Plug-in Hybrid: Could it Make a Return to Australia?

2024-08-22

Mercedes-Benz has recently received approval to sell its C350e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sedan in Australia, sparking speculation that the model could soon be available to Australian buyers. Despite this development, the luxury carmaker remains non-committal about the vehicle's future in the local market.

A Potential Comeback for the C-Class PHEV?

The C350e is part of the latest W206-series C-Class lineup, which already includes the C200, C300, AMG C43 4Matic, and AMG C63 S E-Performance 4Matic+ variants. The approval for the C350e suggests that Mercedes-Benz may be reconsidering its previous stance on plug-in hybrids, which was to focus primarily on either petrol or fully electric vehicles, aside from its AMG performance models.

However, according to Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson Jerry Stamoulis, there is “nothing new to announce” regarding the C-Class PHEV. Stamoulis emphasized that while the brand continues to evaluate the market for all available models, customer demand in Australia has so far leaned more towards petrol and electric vehicles rather than plug-in hybrids.

Customer Preferences Shaping Mercedes-Benz’s Strategy

At the media launch of the EQE electric sedan in May 2023, Stamoulis highlighted the shift in customer preferences. “For C-Class sedan and GLC mid-sized SUV, we’ve elected not to bring in plug-in hybrids to Australia. They are both fantastic plug-in hybrids with 100 kilometres of electric-only range, but the questions that we are being asked by customers are … it’s either petrol or electric,” he explained.

This focus on either petrol or electric powertrains is partly due to the growing portfolio of electric vehicles in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, which is influencing customer choices. Despite the C350e’s potential for a return, the brand is still gauging whether there is sufficient demand for a plug-in hybrid option in the Australian market.

The C350e’s Impressive Powertrain

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz C350e, which is badged as the C300e in Europe, offers a compelling blend of performance and efficiency. It features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 150kW and 320Nm, paired with a 95kW/440Nm electric motor. This combination delivers a total system output of 230kW and 550Nm.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission, while a 25.4kWh lithium-ion battery provides a WLTP-rated electric-only driving range of up to 117 kilometres. This battery capacity is notably larger than those found in early electric vehicles like the BMW i3 and Mitsubishi i-MiEV, offering a significant range for daily commuting on electric power alone.

A History of Plug-in Hybrids in Australia

Mercedes-Benz has a history of offering plug-in hybrid models in Australia, including earlier versions of the C-Class such as the C350e and C300e from 2015 to 2021. Other models like the A-Class, E-Class, GLC, and GLE have also featured PHEV technology. More recently, plug-in hybrids have returned to the Mercedes-Benz Australia lineup in the form of high-performance AMG ‘E-Performance’ vehicles, including the new C63 S, GLC 63 S, and AMG GT 63 S four-door.

Conclusion

While the approval of the C350e for sale in Australia suggests that Mercedes-Benz is keeping its options open, the decision to introduce this model will likely depend on customer demand. As the automotive market continues to evolve, Mercedes-Benz appears to be carefully balancing its offerings to meet the preferences of Australian drivers, whether that’s petrol, electric, or potentially plug-in hybrid vehicles.

[1] The drive away price is based on the applicable on road costs in New South Wales which were available at the time the price was calculated and published, however the price may change at any point prior to purchase. Figures shown are based on the information you have provided. Unless otherwise stated, the drive away price on this webpage does not constitute a formal or binding quote or an offer to sell. The drive away price may also change if you vary or modify the details of your proposed purchase or if you register. Some information used to calculate to drive away price may have been sourced from third parties and whilst every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All vehicles subject to availability and whilst stocks last. Please confirm availability and final information, including price, with the seller prior to purchase. These demonstrators are unable to be purchased for delivery to another State or Territory.

[2] Vehicle information noted is intended as general information for demonstrative purposes and as a guide only. Information may be subject to change without notice. Please confirm final details with the seller prior to purchase.

[3] Where Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd (MBAuP) is noted as the seller of a demonstrator vehicle, the vehicle is advertised for sale by Tynan Motors acting as an agent on behalf of MBAuP. Where Tynan Motors is noted as the seller of a certified vehicle, the vehicle is advertised by, and the information published in association with that vehicle is made by the Tynan Motors and not MBAuP. MBAuP does not warrant the accuracy of any of the information or images published by the Tynan Motors on this website and to the fullest extent permitted by law, MBAuP is not liable for any loss or damage arising from the information or images published by the Tynan Motors.

[4] 'Certified' means a Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPO). CPO vehicles are used vehicles and are not new vehicles. Warranty and Road Side assistance is for a minimum of two years however periods vary depending on the vehicle. Warranty is subject to kilometre based restrictions for commercial use. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. For more information on CPO, please visit https://www.mercedes-benz.com.au/passengercars/buy/used-cars.html

[5] Estimated arrival will vary based on the specifications selected and vehicle availability. Periods provided are indicative only and subject to change without notice. Whilst we will endeavour to ensure that your vehicle arrives as soon as possible, we make no representations or warranties as to the delivery date (to the fullest extent permitted by the Law), nor will we accept any liability for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any person acting in reliance of this date. A more specific estimate will be communicated to you prior to completion of your purchase.

Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd – MD077327. Tynan Motors – MD7483.