The large Mercedes-Benz three-point star has been a fixture in the center of the C-Class grille for quite some time. However, beginning with the 2018 model year, buyers will no longer have the option to select the traditional standing hood ornament that has long signified luxury.
In the 2017 model year, customers could add a $350 luxury package to the C300 and C350e sedans. This package included unique front and rear designs, a grille reminiscent of the S-Class, a comfort-tuned suspension, and that coveted vertical hood ornament, which served as a symbol of distinction and wealth. Unfortunately, this luxury package has been eliminated for 2018.
Mercedes-Benz is shifting its focus toward a sportier appearance for the C-Class in order to appeal to a younger audience. The brand believes that standing hood ornaments are more closely associated with an older generation of drivers, and they wish to avoid the perception of being a luxury vehicle solely for the elderly. However, many discerning individuals, like ourselves, recognize the classic hood ornament as a hallmark of elegance and refined taste.
This decision isn’t entirely unexpected, as vertical hood ornaments have been declining in popularity for a while. Apart from a few ultra-premium brands like Rolls-Royce, few manufacturers still incorporate standing hood ornaments. Even well-known brands with iconic hood ornaments, such as Cadillac and Jaguar, have phased them out in an effort to appear more modern.
For those seeking a more traditionally styled European luxury vehicle, an upgrade to an E-Class or S-Class will be necessary. Fortunately, the AMG S63 continues to feature a standing hood ornament, making a bold statement that combines both high performance and luxury—if you’re willing to pay the premium..
