| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Good looking, comfortable and refined, this is a first class compact executive car with only a few minor quibbles about some details. Mercedes badge and image means it holds value. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| NCAP |
| 5 |
| Best Models |
| C240 Elegance, C270 CDI Elegance |
| Worst Models |
| C320 |
| Replacement |
| 2007 |
|
| Road Test |
| The similarity between C Class and the big S Class is very apparent and very welcome. For a fraction of the cost, buyers get a prestigious, spacious, smooth and comfortable mini-limousine. Standard specifications are better than they have ever been from Mercedes. That combines nicely with the spacious interior; it seats four adults easily whilst the decent boot swallows their luggage. Drivers have lots of seat and steering wheel adjustment, which means you can get comfy and feel relaxed after a long journey. The dashboard though can be confusing, though, with an array of buttons. And the foot-operated parking brake is clumsy to use, especially with a manual gearbox. The engines are smooth and responsive, and there?s a very wide choice to suit all budgets. Many buyers choose the efficient if sometimes noisy diesels. But C Class is not a sporty car, unless you pay highly for the AMG performance models. |
| Positive Points |
- More of a driver's car than previous C Class
- Stylish shrunken S Class looks, fine interior
- Refined, reliable and holds its value well
|
| Negative Points |
- Not comfortable for three adults in the back
- Petrol V6s are a bit thirsty
- Extras push up prices rapidly
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