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2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Extending Its Reach
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class grows in size and stature.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class line consists of the C300 Sport, C300 Luxury, and C350 Sport. C300 models come powered by a lively 3.0-liter V6 engine that can run on either gasoline or E85, a relatively rare ethanol-based fuel that reduces fuel economy by at least 20 percent. The C350 Sport packs a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 40 more horsepower than the base powerplant. A higher-performance C63 AMG version, fitted with a rip-roaring V8 engine, is expected later in the model year.
In addition to more aggressive exterior styling borrowed from the AMG model and different interior trim, Sport versions feature stiffer suspensions and lower-profile tires that sharpen handling at the expense of a rougher ride.
As befits the designation, the C300 Sport model comes with a six-speed manual transmission. Standard on the C300 Luxury and C350 Sport models, and optional on the C300 Sport, is a seven-speed automatic transmission that includes a Touch Shift feature for those who prefer to change gears manually but don't want to bother using a clutch pedal.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but the C300 versions can be fitted with the latest version of the automaker’s 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The system is better integrated into the car’s powertrain than before, and adds less than 150 pounds to its overall weight, which enables it to register the same rate of acceleration as the rear-wheel-drive model.While the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is still not in the same performance league as the BMW 3 Series, the Sport models close the gap a bit, while the Luxury version softens the car up for the benefit of motorists who prefer a comfort-oriented driving experience. The car’s dashboard layout is a less-than-relaxing affair, however, with an electronic controller and menu-driven LCD display (similar to but less irritating than BMW’s iDrive system) used to operate things like the audio system, a Bluetooth-enabled cell phone, and the available navigation system. It’s also linked to secondary switches on the steering wheel. A smaller display in the instrument cluster shows audio system details and navigation directions, among other information.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a slew of standard chassis-control systems (including traction control and ESP stability control), safety features (six airbags and active front head restraints to help prevent whiplash injuries), and coddling amenities (including power front seats and a power sunroof).
A 100-watt audio system that plays MP3 files and features an auxiliary input jack is standard on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, with a 450-watt Harmon/Kardon LOGIC7 surround-sound system optional. An available Apple iPod interface integrates the popular MP3 player with the car's audio system, allowing it to be operated via steering wheel-mounted controls. Also offered is a MusicRegister onboard storage system for digital music files; unlike similar systems in other vehicles that offer up to 20 gigabytes of storage, the C-Class can hold only 4 GB, or roughly 1,000 songs.
Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class for You?
| Buy the C-Class if | You want a Benz but are on a budget; you prize comfort over performance. |
| Keep Looking if | You require a larger vehicle to comfortably seat five; you want a sport sedan with more emphasis on "sport." |
| Who Fits? | The Mercedes C-Class seats four adults (or two adults and three kids) in reasonable comfort, though backseat legroom will be at a premium for longer-legged riders. |
| Closest Competitors | |
| Did You Know? | Originally named the Mercedes-Benz 190, the so-called “baby Benz” debuted in the U.S. for the 1984 model year as one of the first truly upscale compact sedans. Critics not only questioned the whole concept to begin with, but also specifically slammed the 190 as being cramped, underpowered and unsophisticated. Mercedes-Benz changed virtually every aspect of the vehicle, including its name, when it was redesigned for the 1994 model year as the C-Class. The redesigned car earned respect for its more-refined styling, added interior room and power, and improved ride and handling. Today virtually every luxury brand offers a compact model, each with its own mix of comfort and performance. The C-Class delivers both, with a bias toward comfort. |
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