Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate 2008 Review

What we liked
>> Styling, space
>> Ride/handling balance
>> Also see C-Class review here

Not so much
>> Lazy five-speed
>> Cargo securing kit as standard would be nicer for the price
>> Also see C-Class review here

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

About our ratings

Mercedes-Benz is offering a trio of C-Class Estates to Australian buyers, aiming to spark stronger interest for luxury wagon models.

Unlike the Europeans, Aussies 'til now have been hesitant to adopt the benefits of a luxury load-lugger. The latest C-Class version "will hopefully, finally, improve the acceptance of the prestige wagons in the Australian market," opines local Benz boss, Horst Van Sanden.

The C-Class sedan currently enjoys 'bestseller' status in its segment. Mercedes-Benz Australia expects adding the Estate models to the range will only strengthen its cause.

Covering all bases, M-BA is offering the Estates with the as-tested entry level C 200 K, a frugal diesel option in the C 220 CDI and a range-topping V8-engined C63 AMG version.

Starting at $58,890 for the Classic specification, the C 200 K can be ordered as Elegance or Avantgarde spec (the latter, sports-oriented treatment for the first time as an Estate model) for an additional $3520 or $5730 respectively. There's also an AMG Sports Package priced at $12,070 that spices up the offer with sport wheels, suspension upgrade and other add-ons.

Read more details of the C Estate range pricing here, and specification particulars for the C-Class here.

The C 200 K can also be ordered with M-B's Dynamic Handling Package, including 18-inch AMG alloy wheels, and suspension and steering upgrades, for $3520, or a Vision Package with bi-xenon headlights, sunroof and Harman/Kardon stereo, for $4530.

Otherwise, standards include 16-inch alloy wheels, multi-function steering wheel and display, two-zone climate control, front fog lights, park assist, Artico man-made leather trim and full-size spare wheel.

The Estate also comes with a good level of safety equipment, such as active headrests, stability control, front airbags, windowbags and sidebags for front passengers, and windowbags and sidebags for rear passengers. M-B's Pre-Safe accident anticipatory accident system is also standard on the C Estate.

Mercedes-Benz says the Estate's load securing kit (see below) adds occupant protection by helping to prevent items in the load compartment being catapulted forwards in a collision.

The wagon is meant to resemble the sedan in handling terms. Among its standard equipment list is M-B's Agility Control suspension, which uses an adjustable damping system to improve ride comfort. In hard cornering, for example, the damping forces are maximised for stability.

The Estate is similarly tooled to the new C-Class sedan from the B-pillar forward. Most noticeable on the new wagon is its sharper, boxier rear-end styling, lending a more conventional look than its almost hatch-like W203 predecessor.

Mercedes-Benz says the more upright angle for the D-pillar has also helped enlarge the Estate's load volume, which varies between 485 and 1465 litres. That's better than the outgoing model by 146 litres, and also roomier than its closest rivals, the Audi A4 Avant and BMW 3 Series Touring.

The C wagons offer load-lugging conveniences including split-fold rear seats, retractable luggage cover, restraining nets, bag hooks, mesh compartment barrier, electric tailgate (open and close, but an extra $1010), and cargo securing kit ($700) with four anchor rings and telescopic bar and retractable belt, to retain loads in the rear compartment. The wagon's useful underfloor storage space houses a nifty (and standard fit) collapsible shopping crate.

Unlike the abovementioned BMW, however, the C Estate doesn't have a 'two-piece' tailgate with opening rear glass. While M-BA claims the electric tailgate as a segment first, it's by a few months only: Audi says it will offer an electro-mechanical drive for the Avant's tailgate in August.

By M-B's measurements, the maximum usable interior length is 2.82 metres (between the tailgate and front passenger footwell). With the rear seats stowed, the load compartment is approximately 1.8m long and 1.2m wide. Total payload is 530kg and braked towing capacity is 1250kg -- not as good as the Audi's, rated at 1500kg (for the 2.0-litre petrol model), or BMW at 1400kg.

The spacious wagon has good vision rearward through its squarish rear windscreen, without obstruction, at least with the adjustable headrests down. The headrests are compact and don't intrude on the view if adjusted upright for tall passengers.

The C 200 K's 1.8-litre supercharged in-line four-cylinder engine was reworked for the new C-Class and is a decent mill combining elasticity and reasonably frugal manners. Mated to the standard-fit five-speed automatic with self-shift, the C 200 K Estate uses 8.3L/100km.

As noted in our C-Class review, the auto wants for a cleverer shift but does offer smooth driving when pottering around town.

The Estate has the same composure on the road as the sedan with good body control in corners and a firm but forgiving ride.

We won't argue to what degree the standard-fit Agility Control system helps the wagon pick up its heels, but at the wheel the Estate's handling proves sharp and nimble. Steering feel is like the sedan's: somewhat remote at straight ahead but consistent and responsive.

The new Estate's sportier looks and handling, and a couple competitor-rivalling selling points -- where it matters, like extra space and easy-op tailgate -- should help this wagon win new buyers.

The starting price is also close enough to some premium-wannabe, SUV-cum-wagons such as Toyota Kluger -- at least at that brand's Grande spec.

If you can do without the 4X4 (but not the electric tailgate!) consider bringing home a family truckster with a better badge.

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