The fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W205) debuted at the North American International Auto Show in January 2014. It was the inaugural vehicle constructed on the lightweight Modular Rear Architecture (MRA), utilizing up to 48 percent aluminum in its bodyshell to cut overall weight by up to 100 kilograms while enhancing structural rigidity. The generation featured four distinct body variants: sedan (W205), estate (S205), coupe (C205), and a fabric-top cabriolet (A205). Interior appointments redefined the compact luxury benchmark, highlighted by optional AIRMATIC air suspension and an intuitive touchpad multimedia controller.

Engine choices encompassed efficient turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines alongside plug-in hybrids like the C 300 e and C 300 de. The Mercedes-AMG stable offered the twin-turbo V6 C 43 4MATIC and the flagship C 63 / C 63 S powered by a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 (M177) producing up to 510 horsepower. A comprehensive 2018 facelift brought optional MULTIBEAM LED matrix headlights, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display, M264 engines with 48V EQ Boost electrification, and the standard 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission.