Category: Compact Executive 
Price Range: £19,672 to £52,567
Baby Benz looks, much-improved driving experience, sumptuous cabins, smooth ride, refined engines
Still rather conservative, still not as sharp to drive as some rivals
C55 AMG apart, the C-Class isn't the most involving drive for high-performance enthusiasts, but it's a class act
This new-generation C-Class retains its classic Mercedes-Benz look, but has received a number of significant changes under its surface. Detailed modifications have been made to the suspension and steering, ensuring that it's a lot more dynamic to drive - without compromising on comfort. The quality of the cabin fixtures and fittings (and general build quality) has been upgraded, and for the first time, there's a decent manual gearbox on offer. The C-Class might not be as fashionable as, say, the 3-Series, and it may not have the minimalist cool of an Audi or the enthusiast appeal of an Alfa, but it's every inch a proper Mercedes and showcases all the brand's traditional values and strengths.
The engine line-up now includes the supercharged 192bhp 230K unit, previously only offered in the Sport Coupe but now available in the saloon and estate as well, and the output of the C220 CDI diesel has been increased to 150bhp. UK buyers are also offered the supercharged C180 K, C200 K and the C 320 petrol units and the C 200 CDI and C270 CDI diesels, as well as the 367bhp C55 AMG. Specification levels have been improved, which offsets the slight price rise for this new range, and options packs have been simplified. The C-Class isn't cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but it looks better value than ever.
Latest Readers' Drives About the Mercedes C-Class
wrote on 14 11 2006