In a class of its own, take a drive and C for yourself

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Saturday, June 19, 2010

REGULAR readers will know that I really liked the new C-Class Mercedes, seeing it as a serious return to form for the Stuttgart giant in the compact executive market segment.

I had found this car’s predecessor to be uninspiringed and dull and largely felt that its main opponents from BMW and Audi were far more dynamic and inspirational.

Well, Mercedes certainly reacted positively to whatever criticism the previous car had shipped and the new machine emerged with a very contemporary look and overall edginess which was previously missing.

Renewing acquaintance with the C-Class recently, those same sentiments came flooding back and it was a definite pleasure to spendt time inwith the car again.

The tester this time was the C-Class 200 CDI ‘BlueEFFICIENCY’ model which is the smallest of the four diesels on offer in the range.

With some 136 bhp on tap, the engine is not the most powerful unit around, but it is imbued with decent mid-range punch. M and maximum output is achieved at just 2,800 rpm.

It is speedy enough, with the 0-100 kph dash is achieved in just 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 213 kph with the automatic gearbox.

This is a relatively husky engine, but it provides decent get-up-and-go and the consumption figure of 5.7 l/100km won’t displease most punters.

The ‘BlueEFFICIENCY’ programme —– similar to many other programmes run by the opposition —– includes stuff like low rolling resistance tyres, reducing vehicle weight, tweaking the aerodynamics, optimising engines and changing the rear axle ratio, all of which adds to its, yes, efficiency.

And, of course, Mercedes has recently been slashing the cost of its products here in Ireland and at 44,000 this car is now a lot more affordable than was even recently the case. Tand that is to be commended, even if it leads to the suspicion that the brand could probably do even more in this regard if pressed.

But, as compact executives go, the small C-Class diesel is a decent driving proposition.

It is very good to drive and the handling and ride will please even the most demanding driver.

Throw in excellent comfort levels —– no more than you would expect from a Merc —– and decent specifications, and the package is a worthy proposition.

I have seen some complaints that the interior is a bit on the drab side, but I personally found it to be a decent place to be and I thought the overall ergonomics were right up there with what you’d want from a Mercedes.

It is also very spacious for a car its size and rear seat passengers are very well treated in terms of head and leg room.

Throw in the excellent new look of the C-Class and Mercedes has once again produced a car worthy of the three-pointed star.