Category: Compact Executive 
Price Range: No data available
Good to drive, plenty of luggage space, high levels of crash safety.
Patchy cabin quality, staid looks, pricey.
Best small premium estate on the market.
The last-generation C-Class scored a five-star result in the Euro NCAP crash tests, and this one should do the same. It's comprehensively equipped with all the latest technology to protect its occupants in the event of an impact.
There's plenty of electronics to keep you out of trouble in the first place, including stability control, trailer stabilisation, tyre pressure monitoring and emergency braking lights. There are integrated rear child seats, seven airbags and, crucially, a lightweight, but very strong overall structure.
There's also the option of the Mercedes Pre-Safe system, which primes the seatbelt tensioners, force limiters and head restraints if an accident looks likely. Additional rear side airbags are another option, and Mercedes offers a series of load-area accessories to keep your luggage out of harm's way, plus a large underfloor storage box.
