Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2011 Review

Not so much
>> Slight road noise on Estate models
>> Obtuse petrol/auto combination
>> Snug rear leg and kneeroom

Overall rating: 3.5/5.0
Engine and Drivetrain: 4.0/5.0
Price, Value, Practicality: 3.5/5.0
Safety: 3.0/5.0
Behind the wheel: 4.0/5.0
X-factor: 3.0/5.0

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OVERVIEW
>> The classier C-Class
The heavily revised C-Class, incorporating some 2000 new parts, has bought new life to the dependable but now familiar W204-series sedan and estate line-up.

Sporting a new SLS-inspired front mask, complete with aggressively sculptured headlamps, obvious changes to the C-Class are mild and in some cases invisible. They are significant nonetheless and give more than a hint of the styling direction that will eventually front other models in the Mercedes-Benz range.

With the exception of a new catalogue of alloy wheels, and four new paint colours, C-Class' profile is largely unchanged. At the rear the revised car is distinguished by a restyled chrome boot-lid garnish, which sports LED number plate lamps. This is flanked by tail lamps now modified to incorporate LED turn signals and framed by a re-profiled bumper.

An aluminium bonnet and front guards alone give the facelifted C-Class a 10kg weight advantage over the previous model, Mercedes says, while the restyled fascia offers two distinguishably different faces for standard and AMG-enhanced derivatives.

Inside a remoulded dashboard capped with soft-touch pad and galvanised-look trim highlights rejuvenate the decor in dramatic fashion. "Telescopic-styled" instruments, previously found on AVANTGARDE-spec models, are now standard across the range, the dial faces backed in black, silver or cream depending on trim level. A neatly integrated centre screen replaces the retractable unit, while Nappa leather-bound steering wheels feature in a choice of three or four-spoke design.

Importantly, not all of the changes to C-Class are cosmetic with the under bonnet also seeing important amendments. Two petrol and two diesel four-cylinder engines, all now mated as standard to a seven-speed automatic transmission, will carry the bulk of the new models' sales, and are available right away. These will be supplemented by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol and high-output 3.0-litre V6 diesel in sedan models from September. V8-powered C 63 variants, both sedan and Estate, will be made available at the same time.

The all-new C-Class Coupe will join the revised model range from July.

Other changes include the addition of even more safety equipment (see SAFETY), higher amenity levels (see PACKAGING) and enhanced infotainment features (see PRICE AND EQUIPMENT).

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT
>> Still competitive despite a hefty tech upgrade
While dimensionally the C-Class' cabin is unchanged, its amenity levels have improved considerably with the addition of two new infotainment and telematics packages, available in Audio20 and COMAND grades, depending on model.

The entry-level system includes an already comprehensive feature list which incorporates those features found previously in C-Class and is viewed on a 14.7cm TFT (Thin Film Transistor) colour screen, while the upticked COMAND system, viewed on a 17.8cm TFT screen, is now enhanced by two console-mounted media interface ports: USB and Mercedes-Benz's own cable arrangement, the latter offering three common formats.

COMAND also features improved Bluetooth integration, that sees full telephony and music streaming capabilities added, and is also available with COMAND ONLINE that brings smart phone enabled internet connectivity, SUNA traffic guidance (available in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra and Perth), an SD card slot and 10GB music folder.

A range of optional alloy wheels, uprated THERMOTRONIC climate control system, bi-xenon headlamps and climatised front seats are among those features found in the comprehensive options catalogue (see PACKAGING).

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan and estate models are priced as follows:

- C200 BlueEFFICIENCY (petrol) $58,900 sedan / $60,900 estate
- C200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (diesel) $60,900 sedan / $62,900 estate
- C250 BlueEFFICIENCY (petrol) $67,900 sedan / $69,900 estate
- C250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (diesel) $67,900 sedan / $69,900 estate
- C350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (diesel) $84,900 sedan only (from September)
- C300 BlueEFFICIENCY (petrol) $94,400 sedan only (from September)

Pricing for the C63 AMG varaiant, available September, is yet to be announced.

MECHANICAL
>> Superior variety and impressive specifications
At the entry-level end of the C-Class scale, the C200 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol-powered model arrives with a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder developing 135kW/270Nm. Running on 95RON premium unleaded fuel, this direct-injected unit returns an average fuel consumption figure of 7.2L/100km and CO2 emissions of 167g/km.

The model is topped by a version of equal capacity in the C250 BlueEFFICIENCY, this model delivering the same fuel and emission returns despite an increase in output to 150kW/310Nm.

Where diesel is concerned, a pair of 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injected models begins with the C200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY developing 100kW/330Nm and the up-spec twin-turbo C250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY totalling 150kW/500Nm. Despite an increase in power, the higher output model is actually leaner in its consumption rate at 5.1L/100km against its lower powered sibling on 5.4L/100km. CO2 emissions for the pair are 143g/km and 134g/km respectively. To conserve even more fuel, both diesel models now feature idle stop/start as standard.

Arriving in September, for sedan and coupe models, a 3.5-litre V6 direct-injected and naturally-aspirated petrol in the form of the C300 BlueEFFICIENCY will up the performance ante with 185kW/340Nm while returning a combined cycle consumption figure of 8.3L/100km and CO2 emissions of 194g/km. It will be joined concurrently by the diesel-powered C350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, a direct-injected and turbocharged V6 of 3.0-litres displacement making 195kW/620Nm. Despite its athletic orientation, the high-output diesel achieves a surprisingly lean average consumption figure of 6.1L/100km and CO2 emissions of 160g/km.

As we mentioned earlier, the V8-powered C63 AMG will join the range at the same time, the go-fast version to be motivated by the same 6.2-litre V8 found under the bonnet of its forebear, making 336kW/600Nm and consuming 13.5L/100km combined. If previous performance figures are anything to go by, the new 63 should be good for 0-100km/h times of 4.5 seconds.

All C-Class models are rear-wheel drive and feature Mercedes-Benz's 7G-TRONIC seven-speed (automatic) transmission. Previously four-cylinder Cs used a five-speed auto.

Like all C-Class variants, and dating back to the Mercedes-Benz 190 circa 1983, the current model utilises a multi-link rear-end complemented by a MacPherson strut front. Newly standard, C-Class also incorporates Mercedes-Benz's AGILITY CONTROL amplitude-dependent damping system across the range. This can be further optioned by the sportier AMG Sports Package, with shorter springs, stiffer shock absorbers and stronger torsion bars, or the Dynamic Handling Package featuring electrically adjustable dampers and a quicker steering ratio.

Power-assisted rack and pinion steering of course features as standard equipment and is upgraded by an optional speed-sensitive, variable ratio system. The new C-Class rides on a variety of lightweight alloy wheels ranging in diameter from 16 to 18 inches.

PACKAGING
>> When you're on a good thing...
The handsome packaging of the C-Class interior bears the same dimensions of its predecessor, despite an obvious increase in amenity (see PRICE AND EQUIPMENT). As such, the legacy 'fit' of the cabin remains, which sees rear leg and knee room compromised when taller passengers occupy the front seats.

Despite this, the five-seat cabin is equally comfortable and supportive in its accommodation, well contoured seats adjustable at the front to cater for a wide range of occupant shape and size. The steering wheel is of course adjustable for tilt and reach, quickly allowing for the realisation of an ergonomically correct driving position, further improved by excellent all-round vision.

Cargo space is nothing short of generous, considering the car's proportions, with Estate variants offering as much as 1500 litres of usable space.

The new C-Class is available in three trim levels across the range ELEGANCE, AVANTGARDE and AMG Sports Package, each offering a different flavour to focus on buyer preference.

The revision sees entry-level C-Class models lose their CLASSIC nomenclature, now simply dubbed C200 BlueEFFICIENCY and C200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY.

Otherwise, AVANTGARDE trim spec is featured as standard across the range, available optionally on the aforementioned base models for $6250. The package includes a rear seat armrest with cupholders, electrochromatic rear-view mirrors, black ash wood trim detail, leather upholstery, added interior illumination and 18-inch alloy wheels.

ELEGANCE models are distinguished by a brown ash wood grain trim detail, comfort headrests, 17-inch alloy wheels and electric folding mirrors in addition to those features listed on AVANTGARDE. Available for $6250 on C200 BlueEFFICIENCY and C200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY models, the ELEGANCE package is available on all other models as a no cost option.

Adding a more performance-oriented trim spec to the range, the AMG Sports Package is available on C200 BlueEFFICIENCY and C200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY models for $6250 and on all other models for $4850. Among the highlights this package offers are a three-spoke steering wheel with thumb rests and paddle shifts, leather-cloth combination sports seats, aluminium trim highlights and stainless steel pedals. Unlike the two packages mentioned previously, the AMG Sports Package also includes a number of performance upgrades, including 18-inch alloy wheels, lowered suspension, cross-drilled front brake rotors and an aerodynamically styled body kit.

Finally, and again available across the range are two accessory packages, the Vision Package ($4920), with premium Harman Kardon sound system, sunroof and bi-xenon lamps, and Comfort Package ($4190 on four-cylinder models and $2250 on V6 models), with heated memory seats, keyless access and electric rear window roller blind. These packages are available individually on all models without upgrading to AVANTGARDE or ELEGANCE specification.

The aforementioned Dynamic Handling Package (see MECHANICAL) is available on all models for $2460 or in addition to the AMG Sports Package for $1500.

SAFETY
>> All the bells and whistles
Joining the obvious aesthetic alterations, the new C-Class has seen a significant 'trickle down' of safety technology from its larger and more expensive siblings, much of the technology on offer featured in the marque's recently launched flagship model, S-Class.

In addition to the C-Class' already comprehensive array of active and passive safety features, which see it earn a five-star EuroNCAP rating, is the inclusion of a number of optional safety technologies which include PARKTRONIC parking assistant, ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection, PRESAFE collision avoidance technology, adaptive high-beam lamps, attention assist, as well as lane keeping and blind spot information systems.

Cruise control is also available optionally with Mercedes-Benz's DISTRONIC radar-based distance monitor which is available between 0 and 200km/h, and will even apply full braking capacity in the event of an imminent collision to mitigate impact severity.

COMPETITORS
>> The 4, the 3, IS and the C
The obvious rivals facing the new C-Class come from its home country of Germany: the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. All opponents compete on similar footing with price, specification, equipment and safety gear very nearly identical, yet equally personable.

While there is a slight dynamic difference between the trio, it could be said the preference is a case of "each to their own", with no significant foibles evident anywhere in any of the manufacturer's ranges. Indeed, the three midsize Germans are near or at the top of their game, in some cases setting the benchmarks for the market in general.

But in saying that, the C-Class does have the jump on its rivals where sales are concerned. Last year the C-Class was ranked first in its category (Medium >$60K), outselling the BMW 3 Series by more than 500 units and Audi A4 by more than 600.

In contrast to the pricing we mentioned earlier (see PRICING), BMW's 3 Series range begins at $56,100 and tops out at $130,400, the Audi A4 range scaling between $52,100 and $119,900.

Lexus' IS prestige sedan range is also worth consideration, despite the lack of a diesel or Estate option.

More competitively priced, when compared model-to-model, the entry-level IS 250 begins at $55,800 (against the C250 BlueEFFICIENCY at $67,900), sportier IS 350 from $64,800 (opposed to C350 BlueEFFICIENCY at $94,400) and hi-po V8-powered IS F at $126,800 (which will challenge the C63 AMG, currently priced at $150,980).

ON THE ROAD
>> The baby Benz is back
With V6 models yet to arrive in Australia, the local launch of the revised C-Class offered the full range of four-cylinder engines for sampling, as well as a host of body styles, trim and package sets. The Carsales Network team managed a steer in three of the four variants during our allocated time.

Beginning our trek through north-central Victoria in C200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY sedan we found a willing powerplant thankfully bereft of turbo lag and intuitive in its decision to correctly (and very nearly imperceptibly) allocate ratios from the now standard 7G-TRONIC transmission. Performance, while hardly what one would can scintillating, is ample and pleasingly, had little impact over the quoted fuel economy figures. Indeed, our test car maintained reasonable proximity to the claimed 5.4L/100km average.

While it was obvious we were indeed driving an 'oiler' to the ear, the engine is free from vibration and is enthusiastic in its desire to rev. In our view it is a strong contender for conquest sales.

Sampling both petrol-powered models (the C200 BlueEFFICIENCY Sedan and C250 BlueEFFICIENCY Estate) we found a pair of agreeable and lively force-fed four-cylinder engines that manage duties admirably. Evidently, the lower-spec engine needs to work harder on hills and during overtaking manoeuvres but it also seems more tenacious in finding the right gear for the job. Conversely the upper-spec petrol was less intuitive when hurried, often taking a brief moment to 'decide' on the correct ratio prior to kickdown. That aside, and in all cases, the 7G-TRONIC is a far more cultured transmission than the five-speeder it replaces.

Much like its aesthetic character, the C-Class' onroad manners are equal parts polite and engaging. Perhaps presenting a firmer ride than some traditional C buyers would consider appropriate, the right suspension and wheel combination should see you right in most scenarios. In spite of its new hint of extra sportiness, however, the C-Class remains settled in the face of larger, unexpected stretches of derelict road, its handling lissom in spite of the car's considerable weight.

From behind the wheel the most immediate improvement, at least visually, is the new dashboard. The engaging feel of the surrounds, while arguable softer, are more elegant. The dash et al feel more in keeping of the car's asking price when viewed against its predecessor.

Despite these positive changes, and in this scribe's view, the steering wheel diameter could be smaller and the weighting of teh steering more substantial. Admittedly the response to input is mildly improved.

Between the Sedan and Estate is a minor but nonetheless perceptible difference in road noise, perhaps a result of the open bodywork over the rear axle. Otherwise, noise and vibration issues are negligible; a minor hint of wind noise generated from the wing mirrors at highway speed the only other grievance.

With such constructive inclusions from the brand's premium models, well sorted powertrain options and a facelift to turn heads, the revised C-Class is decidedly better value than the model it replaces. With a freshening of the 3 Series in the wings the prestige medium segment has never presented better value.

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