Mercedes c350e hybrid

eamondunphy · 04-07-2018 01:08PM #1

Hi all,

I am looking at getting a c350e hybrid, I drive 2km to work and mostly only drive to shopping centres like Dundrum and blanch which are about 15km away from me.

I might go to the UK to get one if I can sell my car first as trade in offers haven't been great so far.
I know cmvet works out at about 2,500e arlfter relief or is there anything else that can be claimed back.

I was just wondering if its necessary to get a charger for home or is it OK to use just the normal plugs as it's only a small battery, I'd like to think I'd only need to charge it every 3rd or 4th day, but will obviously charge at supping centres when possible.

I was looking at the hybrid as I think it would suit my normal weekly drives, has any one purchased one and got any feedback?

Any comments appreciated

ei9go · 04-07-2018 01:14PM

Suggest you have a read of this before you buy this.

https://www.independent.ie/life/motoring/car-reviews/my-arguments-for-and-against-this-cclass-plugin-hybrid-36267535.html

Most he got was 16 km before the petrol engine kicked in.

Maybe get something with a battery that is worth the effort to charge.

eamondunphy · 04-07-2018 01:36PM

Thanks, I think I read that article before, my thinking was that beside driving to work Monday to Friday, I rarely drive anywhere else, so 16km could get me maybe 4 days without a charge.

I live in Dublin and do mainly city driving, I see in the article that the author was only getting around 37mpg, but most user reviews I've seen get alot more, although nowhere near the 135mpg Mercedes state.

I currently have a 131 petrol c class, so I'd I was able to get 60/70 mpg with a hybrid, it would be a massive jump in fuel efficiency for me.

zilog_jones · 04-07-2018 02:10PM

The US EPA has it rated at 8 miles (13 km) all-electric range, and 36 MPG (imperial) petrol-only driving - and they are usually realistic, maybe slightly pessimistic with EV range. I think you'd be lucky to get 16 km. NEDC figures are as good as useless.

Charging on a 13A socket usually means around a charging rate of around 2.2 kW max, so it would take close to around 3 hours to fully charge the 6.2 kWh battery. And unless it comes with the charger to charge off a normal socket, it will cost you a few hundred.

I'm averaging about 80 MPG with my Prius Plug-in, with about 40% EV driving. The battery is smaller (still get around 16 km range though), but it's a substantially more efficient car (around 60 MPG average petrol-only driving, like the normal 3rd gen Prius).

04-07-2018 02:19PM

eamondunphy wrote: »

Hi all,

I am looking at getting a c350e hybrid, I drive 2km to work and mostly only drive to shopping centres like Dundrum and blanch which are about 15km away from me.

<SNIP>

Any comments appreciated

Here's a comment: Poor car. I wouldn't fancy buing your old car as a used vehicle due to number of cold starts and frequent running below correct operating temp. But yes, any pluging hybrid or even better a fully electric car would be an useful upgrade for your use.

ted1 · 04-07-2018 02:20PM

Sorry I have to ask. But why do you drive 2km to work ?
Would you not just walk or cycle it ?

FriendsEV · 04-07-2018 03:48PM

So annoying here

OP doesnt want to cycle or buy a bloody Prius

The 350e is class

Go likes a sportscar and looks well, nicely priced too for a near 300bhp premium German beast

It does 10-20km on electric going by reviews

Users say about 40mpg motorway

Its nicer than the 330e imo, much quicker than Lexus IS300H too

zilog_jones · 04-07-2018 04:06PM

FriendsEV wrote: »

OP doesnt want ... a bloody Prius

I never said that, I'm just trying to set some reasonable expectations with this car. The EV range will only get them one way to their 15 km shopping centre example, and I think averaging 60-70 MPG may be difficult to achieve.

49 MPG average based on 14 owners: https://www.spritmonitor.de/en/overview/28-Mercedes-Benz/270-C-Klasse.html?fueltype=6&powerunit=2

ted1 · 04-07-2018 04:16PM

FriendsEV wrote: »

So annoying here

OP doesnt want to cycle or buy a bloody Prius

The 350e is class

Go likes a sportscar and looks well, nicely priced too for a near 300bhp premium German beast

It does 10-20km on electric going by reviews

Users say about 40mpg motorway

Its nicer than the 330e imo, much quicker than Lexus IS300H too

Where did they say that they don’t want to cycle or get a Prius.
2km is only about a 15 minute walk.

Sometimes people do know what they actually want till presented with options.

TomOnBoard · 04-07-2018 04:53PM

FriendsEV wrote: »

So annoying here:mad:

OP doesnt want to cycle or buy a bloody Prius :mad:

The 350e is class:D

Go likes a sportscar and looks well, nicely priced too for a near 300bhp premium German beast

It does 10-20km on electric going by reviews:D

Users say about 40mpg motorway:D

Its nicer than the 330e imo, much quicker than Lexus IS300H too:D

I agree with all the points marked

I get really miffed when a person comes on here and asks is the widget I'm thinking of buying a good choice, and someone comes on here to argue that he doesn't need to buy a widget anyway, and proceeds to offer un-solicited advice about doing something else that the OP never mentioned. It annoys ppl who are interested in knowing why OP is buying widget A rather than widget B or C when some fella comes on trying to convince OP he doesnt need a widget- he should get a crocodile. :mad:

Like, it a feckin Motoring thread, not a bloody cycling or walking thread!!! Oh, and yes, I also Looove the 350e. It a 2018 car unlike the BMW 330e which looks like its still 2014 (although the fully charged range is better). Eddie Cunningham's summary in the article referenced above was very usefil in the context of OPs situation: "Overall, the 350e is a decent package and I think wins key arguments for urban-based drivers especially - so long as they don't believe those official fuel consumption claims."

eamondunphy · 04-07-2018 05:01PM

For the record, I've no shower or locker facilities in work changing after cycling to work so not really into turn up sweaty or wet after getting rained on, I work in a factory doing shift work where l come home at 4am or be could going to work at 4am, with Irish weather and safety, I'm not walking or cycling to work at that time.. I don't wanna walk or cycle to work in the rain or sub zero temperatures etc etc

Back to the car, I would have the option to charge it daily at work so I'd like to think I'd only need petrol at weekends, I only drive out of Dublin 3/4 times a year so I'm not really taking long drives into account.

I'm just wondering if mpg would improve enough to make it worthwhile, I don't like the interior of lexus and my parents and brothers have 5 series bmw, I've gone off the interior over the years,in my opinion, the c class is the nicest visually

mordeith · 04-07-2018 05:02PM

TomOnBoard wrote: »

Like, it a feckin Motoring thread, not a bloody cycling or walking thread!!!

Yeah but it's not surprising the questions are being asked. If you go on the Computers forum and ask about a new XPS 15 but then say you only want it for Word and browsing Facebook then you are legitimately going to be asked would you not be better offer with a lower spec, lower priced machine. Still counts as advice.

TomOnBoard · 04-07-2018 05:09PM

mordeith wrote: »

Yeah but it's not surprising the questions are being asked. If you go on the Computers forum and ask about a new XPS 15 but then say you only want it for Word and browsing Facebook then you are legitimately going to be asked would you not be better offer with a lower spec, lower priced machine. Still counts as advice.

Not the same thing at all!

Your example is of someone in a computer forum who asks should I get a big powerful computer, and when he explains its intended use is advised to buy a smaller computer for half the price. Valid advice!

He's NOT being told he should forget about getting a computer and should buy a biro, writing pad and a book of stamps instead! :mad:

TomOnBoard · 04-07-2018 05:19PM

eamondunphy wrote: »

For the record, I've no shower or locker facilities in work changing after cycling to work so not really into turn up sweaty or wet after getting rained on, I work in a factory doing shift work where l come home at 4am or be could going to work at 4am, with Irish weather and safety, I'm not walking or cycling to work at that time.. I don't wanna walk or cycle to work in the rain or sub zero temperatures etc etc

Back to the car, I would have the option to charge it daily at work so I'd like to think I'd only need petrol at weekends, I only drive out of Dublin 3/4 times a year so I'm not really taking long drives into account.

I'm just wondering if mpg would improve enough to make it worthwhile, I don't like the interior of lexus and my parents and brothers have 5 series bmw, I've gone off the interior over the years,in my opinion, the c class is the nicest visually

IMO, your driving is ideally suited to the C350e. Its not just economy. You'll have a quieter vehicle that'll be more manoeverable, zippy, cleaner in the city, and you'll get bags of fun out of it. I'm assuming you're not doing this solely from the point of view of economy- the up front premium you will pay as as against what you'd pay for a diesel C200 for example will need a lot of fuel economy to get back. If you were doing it solely from an economy perspective, I suspect a BMW i3 would be more suited to your needs. But then you wouldn't be driving in to your shift in a vehicle that makes you smile just by being inside it! And for some of us, that is also very important...:):D

goz83 · 04-07-2018 06:51PM

One would need to be rather unfit and heavy to be sweating after walking/cycling 2 klms.

That said, we don't need any explanation as long as we know you are just not interested in walking/cycling....like myself. I picked up an electric kick scooter for very short trips and have found it quite handy. If I was 2 klms from work I would use that regardless of the time of day/night unless it was bucketing rain.

The 350e looks like a lovely machine. I hope you enjoy it.

ei9go · 04-07-2018 07:10PM

One thing to check is how the heater works.

This is because some PHEV's have to run the petrol engine to heat water for the heater.

This could mean that in the winter, you may not use the electric engine at all on your short commutes which could impact your mpg greatly.

eamondunphy · 04-07-2018 07:48PM

ok thanks guys, i think i'll go for a test drive over the next few days.

While i'd like a car that has improved fuel economy, it's not the sole factor for lookings at this car, but i'd look at the c class petrol if the hybrid wasnt worthwhile, i've never owned a diesel and don't want to start now.

As i said, i much prefer the look and interior of the c350e compared to the 3 series 330e, i dont like the interior of the lexus even thought they have a lovely exterior, while i appreciate the economy of the prius, looks wise, they've never been my cup of tea.

If i can drive the 3.4kms (i checked, its not 2km) to work, charged it there and drive back from work and charg it every day, while also being able to charge it at shopping centres, i'd like to think i'd use very little fuel on my normal weekly drives.... obviously i know long drives while mostly use the engine

As I've said, I've no interest walking or cycling to work at 4am in pitch black, sub zero temperatures, I've no changing or shower facilities and work in a factory wearings heavy safety gear and steel capped boots so i'll leave it there on that.

eamondunphy · 04-07-2018 07:51PM

TomOnBoard wrote: »

IMO, your driving is ideally suited to the C350e. Its not just economy. You'll have a quieter vehicle that'll be more manoeverable, zippy, cleaner in the city, and you'll get bags of fun out of it. I'm assuming you're not doing this solely from the point of view of economy- the up front premium you will pay as as against what you'd pay for a diesel C200 for example will need a lot of fuel economy to get back. If you were doing it solely from an economy perspective, I suspect a BMW i3 would be more suited to your needs. But then you wouldn't be driving in to your shift in a vehicle that makes you smile just by being inside it! And for some of us, that is also very important...:):D

thanks, this was my thinking, i dont like the bmw i3 at all, i much prefer saloons

TomOnBoard · 04-07-2018 08:49PM

ei9go wrote: »

One thing to check is how the heater works.

This is because some PHEV's have to run the petrol engine to heat water for the heater.

This could mean that in the winter, you may not use the electric engine at all on your short commutes which could impact your mpg greatly.

Ive read that the C350e (at last from 2016 on) has an awesome remote heating and cooling facility called Pre-Entry Climate Control that can be controlled from yer mobile and will switch on the heaters or coolers before you even get into the car. It uses electricity. The thing is, if youre plugged in and charging, and its brass monkeys outside, start up the heater(s) remotely so youll have a toasty cab b4 you even leave the house. While this is very important for the driver and passengers, it is absolutely crucial for the batteries hat need to be heated in Winter and cooled in Summer to maximise performance and life.

And of course, if youre plugged in, the pre-heating /cooling will largely be mains powered, saving your gold-dust electric charge for the driving and keeping the car warm on the go. I'm not sure but Id be surprised if they dont also have electrically heated seats.

I seriously love that car. Are you thinking of importing or buying local? Also, there are a number of excellent YouTube reviews of the c350e compared with the BM 330e. Theyre well worth a look b4 you test drive so youll have an idea of what to look out for.

Heres Johnny · 04-07-2018 08:54PM

Go for it. Nice car. Fuel efficient petrol hybrid with higher than average power.
You won't be without traditional fuel bills but so what?
But do buy in UK nearly new, these cars lose their bol*ox in value as better batteries inevitably come on line. But that's true of all new or nearly new expensive cars. Diesels too.
But back to beginning, go for it if you like the car.

eamondunphy · 04-07-2018 09:33PM

thanks guys,

I wanna buy in in UK, but i'm struggling to sell my car privately so might have to trade it in.. my car is a petrol 2013 petrol automatic petrol c class that i got in the uk in 2015, but nobody seems interested in petrol. i've only seen 2 petrol versions go on sale here.

I've looked at a good few video reviews and most seem to state that they get good mpg, especially compared to my car. I've just not come across anyone in Ireland who owns one

Is that pre cooling climate control feature standard on all 2016 versions onwards? i was looking at 161 or 162 versions and didnt see it mentioned

TomOnBoard · 04-07-2018 09:54PM

eamondunphy wrote: »

thanks guys,

I wanna buy in in UK, but i'm struggling to sell my car privately so might have to trade it in.. my car is a petrol 2013 petrol automatic petrol c class that i got in the uk in 2015, but nobody seems interested in petrol. i've only seen 2 petrol versions go on sale here.

Id say its going to be a mare to sell here. If your car is in great condition, consider doing the reverse, i.e. export back to UK and sell it there. Seek a VRT refund as a permanent export. Its a bit out there as a solution, I know, but its worth checking out.

eamondunphy wrote: »

I've looked at a good few video reviews and most seem to state that they get good mpg, especially compared to my car. I've just not come across anyone in Ireland who owns one

I've not seen one either. And thats the thing that would worry me most as, with Merc labour rates, Id be worried that their mechanics would be learning about PHEVs on my car, and I'd be paying a huge hourly rate for the privilege. But hey ho"- such is the nature of risk taking. And anyway, Im sure there are good EU wide warranties on all Mercs that pass on to 2nd users.

eamondunphy wrote: »

Is that pre cooling climate control feature standard on all 2016 versions onwards? i was looking at 161 or 162 versions and didnt see it mentioned

Check this out. Its a very helpful press release that I think was destined for the US market. Itll give you materials for your research.

See pages 7-8

https://www.mbusa.com/vcm/MB/DigitalAssets/AboutUs/PressReleases/2016_C350_PLUG-IN_HYBRID-FINAL.pdf

eamondunphy · 05-07-2018 10:36AM

I looked into trying to trade it in back in the UK, but I think I'd lose more money that way, Im still looking at both options but think my best options are to trade in and pay a bit more here, or try sell it to someone like mooneys for cash and then go back to the UK, mooneys will obviously give me less than its worth but still works out ok when adding cash to a UK car

TomOnBoard · 05-07-2018 02:59PM

eamondunphy wrote: »

I looked into trying to trade it in back in the UK, but I think I'd lose more money that way, Im still looking at both options but think my best options are to trade in and pay a bit more here, or try sell it to someone like mooneys for cash and then go back to the UK, mooneys will obviously give me less than its worth but still works out ok when adding cash to a UK car

Given all those different angles, the locally traded option does look more appealing so. I'd be prepared to pay a reasonable amount more overall here for the security of getting warranties etc. All that's assuming you can get the car you want here of course. God luck and let us know progress. .

eamondunphy · 05-07-2018 03:19PM

Thanks for the press release info, an interesting read, curious to see if some of the features are standard here compared to the UK and US, will ask exactly what's on the cars available

0lddog · 05-07-2018 05:32PM

Think I saw one of these charging when I was up in the big smoke today.

Size of charging bay marking need to be increased for them

.

Bigus · 05-07-2018 07:26PM

eamondunphy wrote: »

thanks guys,

I wanna buy in in UK, but i'm struggling to sell my car privately so might have to trade it in.. my car is a petrol 2013 petrol automatic petrol c class that i got in the uk in 2015, but nobody seems interested in petrol. i've only seen 2 petrol versions go on sale here.

I've looked at a good few video reviews and most seem to state that they get good mpg, especially compared to my car. I've just not come across anyone in Ireland who owns one

Is that pre cooling climate control feature standard on all 2016 versions onwards? i was looking at 161 or 162 versions and didnt see it mentioned

I wouldn't write off irish dealers yet , and especially their asking prices.
A good mate of mine picked up a demo C350 e only today, Mercedes dealer here , really made him a ridiculous offer he just couldn't refuse to trade up from a diesel coupe Mercedes . Serious discounts around these parts.

Mooooo · 05-07-2018 07:29PM

Could check the north as they may take the trade in up there

eamondunphy · 05-07-2018 10:51PM

Bigus wrote: »

I wouldn't write off irish dealers yet , and especially their asking prices.
A good mate of mine picked up a demo C350 e only today, Mercedes dealer here , really made him a ridiculous offer he just couldn't refuse to trade up from a diesel coupe Mercedes . Serious discounts around these parts.

Do you know what dealer he got his from, I've been to a few dealers and haven't got anything what I'd call a good deal, all prices were pretty consistent but nothing that made me think I was getting a great offer

eamondunphy · 05-07-2018 10:52PM

Mooooo wrote: »

Could check the north as they may take the trade in up there

There's not alot of hybrids up north that I can see, the UK has alot more obviously but found very few up north

TomOnBoard · 06-07-2018 12:12AM

Bigus wrote: »

I wouldn't write off irish dealers yet, and especially their asking prices.
A good mate of mine picked up a demo C350 e only today, Mercedes dealer here , really made him a ridiculous offer he just couldn't refuse to trade up from a diesel coupe Mercedes . Serious discounts around these parts.

A Diesel coupe will be preferred by most drivers here in Ireland. OPs circumstances particularly suif the C350e, but for anyone doing a good bit of Motorway miles it would be a different story. I'd say OP is quite unusual in wanting a luxury bus and doing such relatively short mainly urban journies. Unfortunately for him, his PX is a big petrol which would be much less saleable than a diesel coupe IMHO. That may change as diesel is more and more shunned in the future, but not yet.

Mercedes c350e hybrid

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