Thinking of Going Green? Compare the 2018 BMW 530e iPerformance to the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C350e Plug-in Hybrid

That title is a mouthful. Mercedes-Benz is the only other luxury brand that can possibly match BMW for having the most variations and options within the overall model lineup, so it makes sense that a high-powered, ultra-luxurious, plug-in hybrid-electric sedan would need a pretty impressive name. If you're hoping to go green--without fully committing to an all-electric vehicle--you've likely looked into two very popular models in Pleasanton: the all-new 2018 BMW 530e iPerformance midsize sedan, and the Mercedes C 350e Plug-in Hybrid compact sedan.

Since the BMW 530e iPerformance and the Mercedes-Benz C 350e are in different classes, it's important to note that this won't be an exact, apples-to-apples comparison. However, since both are top choices among hybrid-electric luxury cars in California, we'll assess the two as fairly as possible to help you make your decision.

Now, should Mercedes-Benz choose to import its E 350e Plug-In Hybrid, that will be a whole different rivalry. But, we'll start here:


 

 


2018 Mercedes-Benz C 350e vs. 2018 BMW 530e iPerformance

  • The 530e iPerformance comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbo-four + electric motor for a combined 248 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque
  • The C 350e Plug-in comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbo-four + electric motor for a combined 275 horsepower
  • BMW's hybrid-electric sedan can travel for 15 miles on battery alone
  • Mercedes-Benz's plug-in sedan can only travel for 10 miles on battery alone
  • The C350e Plug-in Hybrid expects 45 MPGe city, and 61 MPGe highway
  • Official EPA ratings for BMW 530e iPerformance MPGe have not yet been released
  • The C 350e Plug-in Hybrid is less expensive than the BMW 530e iPerformance, but has less passenger room, cargo room, and fewer standard features

 


Still Deciding? See Why BMW is the Better Choice for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

BMW offers exceptional hybrid options at nearly every level--including 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series plug-in hybrid sedans--and two of the most iconic electric luxury vehicles on the market, the BMW i3 and BMW i8.

While the Mercedes-Benz C350e definitely offers some nice features, and decent performance, until Mercedes can step up its game and offer a wider range of hybrid options for California drivers who want sport handling with eco-friendly efficiency, BMW is always going to be ahead.

>>> Browse BMW 530e Inventory