Mercedes C-Class saloon (2007 – ) expert review

The Mercedes C-Class saloon is available in two styles. The Mercedes C-Class Sport has a distinctive three-pointed star integrated into the grille. The SE and the Elegance are characterised by the traditional bonnet-mounted badge and has a more conservative look. It’s an instantly recognisable exterior which is very subtle and easy on the eye, it doesn’t scream “Look at me!” but rest assured, people will know what you’re driving. The latest version is longer and wider than its predecessor.

We kept using the phrase “sense of occasion” when driving the Mercedes C-Class for a week. The quality of materials, the attention to detail and the room (the new car’s increased width and length translates to more space inside, with front shoulder room up by 40mm) combine to make driver and passengers feel special. You can’t ask much more of a car than that. Everything just feels right and is very well thought-out. From the soothing dial-illumination to the moulded finger ridges set into the interior door handles – we were impressed.

The Mercedes C-Class can easily accommodate five while there is 475 litres of boot space available. Our week-long loan coincided with a weekend break for four and luggage was carried with room to spare. The cabin feels roomy and storage space is available in the form of cupholders front and back, magazine holders set into the back of the front seats and storage between the driver and front seat passenger.

The C-Class’s on road behaviour can pretty much be tailored to suit. Sport models are fitted with firmer springs for a more involving drive, though ride quality is still exceptional. SE and Elegance versions are softer and offer a more cosseting experience. No matter which you plump for, it will come equipped with adaptive dampers, which automatically adjusts the suspension firmness dependent on road conditions and driver inputs. The result is a car that is effortlessly relaxed when you’re in the mood to take it easy and equally willing when you want to play.

Three petrol and four diesel engines are offered. Petrol options range from the four-cylinder C180 and C250 (with 156 and 204bhp respectively) and the six-cylinder, 306bhp C350. The diesel engines are arguably more impressive, delivering similar levels of power, but more muscular low down shove for a more relaxed driving experience. With power outputs ranging from 136bhp to 265bhp, there is something for every taste. The mid-range C220 CDI is particularly well rounded, capable of covering the 0-62mph sprint in 8.4 seconds and whisking the C-Class up to a top speed of 144mph, while remaining remarkably refined for a four-cylinder diesel.

With its range of BlueEfficiency engines, Mercedes has worked hard to keep fuel consumption and emissions low, without compromising on performance. Again, it is the diesel versions that are most impressive, with CO2 emissions from as low as 117g/km and combined fuel economy of up to 64.2mpg. This makes the C-Class ideal for those who want a prestige car without the traditional high running costs. That said, even plumping for the opulent V6 petrol model will see you manage 47.9mpg, and thanks to CO2 emissions of 157g/km, you will be liable for just £170 in road tax per annum – not something usually associated with a large 306bhp engine.

Mercedes has a good reputation for reliability and this is backed up by the rigorous testing applied to the latest version of the car, including simulating 115,000 miles of everyday driving. The car feels immensely solid.

The Mercedes C-Class comes with seven airbags as standard including one to protect the driver’s left knee. The new model has been subjected to more than 100 crash tests. Should you need to brake hard at speeds in excess of 30mph the brake lights will flash. Does this make a difference? According to Mercedes, flashing lights make drivers react 0.2 seconds quicker than they do to conventional brake lights. Mercedes PRE-SAFE co-ordinates driver aids including electronic safety prevention and brake assist technology activates safety systems in advance of a crash.

Buyers can choose between three equipment levels: SE, Elegance and Sport. All models feature Mercedes’ Agility Control and PRE-SAFE packages for ride, handling and safety as well as two-zone climate control, front foglamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, tinted glass, and power windows. The Elegance adds features including an interior lighting package, chrome inserts in the radiator grille and a rear seat unit with centre armrest and twin cupholders. The Sport adds 17-inch AMG wheels, AMG body-styling, steering  wheel-mounted paddle-shift gears and sports seats.

Sense of occasion. It’s a saloon with subtle wow-factor and we were sad to bid it farewell after a week’s loan.