A Style-Out Between Bitter Rivalries, BMW 3 Series Facelift Vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class

A long-standing rivalry, a constant one-upping of each other, once again BMW and Merc are battling it out with their newly released sedan models.

In this battle of the saloons, CariCarz has dissected the two contenders, one from each brand, in terms of their overall design to determine who comes out on top.

Rolling it off, in one lane we have the sporty and modern BMW 3 Series Facelift and in the other, the elegant and traditional Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Gandering at its front, the new 3 Series is sleek with sharp contours. The lines are more cohesive, crisper, and less fussy than its previous iteration.

The elements fitted, such as the new octagonal-shaped grille, all-new slimmer headlights, and new lower front fascia exude a more aggressive and commanding stance. 

Meanwhile, the new C-Class’ front has a poised and sophisticated presence. The lines are very clean and rounded portraying a very classic and recognizable Mercedes outlook.

It can be seen with slimmer and more focused headlights, paired to a new diamond grille, with its pin design featuring a three-pointed star pattern finished in chrome.

Next, panning to the side, both contenders portray similar silhouettes, but in their own distinct way. The 3 Series with its curvy lines and the C-Class with its straight ones.

One thing that really pops out for both models are the wheels. The Bimmer rolls with new 18-inch M double-spoke light alloy wheels and the Merc with 19-inch AMG multi-spoke units. 

Now, we turn to the back. The 3 Series’ rear also has a commanding presence. Namely, thanks to the large, diffuser-like element that links to the angular air outlets at the sides. 

Plus, the entire bottom section is finished in black for contrast and the diffuser is fitted with integrated double tailpipes for that extra bit of sportiness.  

As for the C-Class, unlike the brand’s other models, with this one Mercedes-Benz has done some justice. Those droopy-like features are no more, now it looks much cleaner and tighter. 

Combining sharper and slimmer taillights with a minimal looking black diffuser with integrated twin tailpipes, the outlook is very elegant and smooth. 

Transitioning inside, the 3 Series has a very refined, ergonomic, and highly functional interior that features premium build quality.

Overall two-toned interior with black as the base and the finish in glimmering silver just oozes luxury. Not to forget, the huge infotainment screen stretching halfway across the dash.

However, the C-Class’ cabin is better looking. It has a gorgeous steering wheel, cool looking vents, infotainment system that seems easier to reach, and a smooth cascading centre console.

Besides that, the overall layout looks very futuristic with the ambient lights and shiny grey panels blending well together. 

That said, with their design attributes laid out, it’s easy to conclude that both contenders have their own advantages in every aspect. 

For example, the BMW 3 Series might be appealing to the rugged and sporty kind of drivers, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class appeals to a posher and elegant crowd.

Regardless, for CariCarz the one that pulled ahead is the Merc, hands down. The C-Class’ overall styling is just too good to look away from. It's unmistakable, timeless and has that ‘umph’ to it.