The C-Class will be cheaper to run than before. Every engine has been tweaked to be greener and more frugal. The C200 CDI is the best example: fuel consumption is up by as much as 6mpg, while emissions are down by 13%. Insurance groups range from 13-17 but Mercedes dealers servicing is notoriously expensive and customer satisfaction isn’t as high as it should be according to most surveys.

Emissions are down across the range compared to the previous C-Class estate. The vast majority of models emit less than 225 g/km CO2 and, therefore, fall outside of the highest road tax band. Only the C350 emits more. 95% of the C-Class is recyclable.

Like the previous model, the estate shouldn’t cause its owners any major problems. Only tens of thousands of miles will prove how well-made it really is, but C-Class certainly feels strong. Interior materials are robust and should withstand wear-and-tear.