Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon (07 on) - Review

The entry level engines are the C180 and C200 Kompressors. These two models are supercharged and offer good performance, getting to 62mph in 9.9 and 8.8 seconds respectively. Both are punchy low down and surprisingly responsive, even when mated to the optional five-speed automatic gearbox, although they do often need to be revved quite hard. The C230 and C280 are the mid range units and although smoother than the C200K neither is much quicker. The C350 on the other hand gives excellent off-the-line acceleration, getting to 62mph in 6.4 seconds and delivers a pleasant engine note too. It’s a great cruiser, smooth and refined with plenty of power in reserve - although on fast, twisty roads, it needs to be worked hard to get the best from it. First of the diesel units is the C200 CDI, which returns a healthy 46mpg. The C220 CDI is as pacey as the petrols - 0-62mph comes in 8.5 seconds - but still returns good fuel economy. For stronger performance however the C320 CDI is the best choice. Powerful with plenty of low-down pulling power, it makes overtaking a breeze and there’s plenty of punch for covering backroads quickly. By any standards its 0-62mph time of 6.9 seconds is quick. All cars have a six-speed gearbox as standard expect the C280, C350 and C320 CDI which get a seven-speed semi-automatic gearbox (badged 7G-Tronic). An optional five-speed automatic is available on the smaller engined models. In January 2008 the C180K model was renamed as the C180K BlueEFFICIENCY - the name Mercedes gives to its low emissions models. Fuel consumption improves by around 10 per cent and lower emissions mean it's cheaper to tax.

The C-Class is agile, accomplished and sure-footed. Even in adverse conditions and heavy rain it holds the road impressively and will happily make swift progress - the steering is responsive, it corners well and there’s little bodyroll. It’s a supreme motorway cruiser too, as it rides superbly and feels very stable at speed. An Advanced Agility Package firms up the steering and sharpens the gearbox response simply by switching a button on the dash that moves it between Comfort and Sport modes.