2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mercedes' least-expensive line is redesigned for '01 around slightly larger dimensions, new styling, and new features. Sedans bowed first as the C240 with a 2.6-liter V6 and the C320 with a 3.2 V6. Standard on both are 16-inch wheels (vs. 15s before), traction control, antiskid system, ABS, and 4-wheel disc brakes. Also included are front and rear side airbags, curtain side-airbags, and Mercedes' TeleAid assistance system and BabySmart child-seat recognition system. The C240 has a standard 6-speed manual transmission--a first for this line. A 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate is optional and is the C320's only transmission. Options for both include leather upholstery, COMAND video navigation system, and a Sport Package with upgraded suspension and aero body add-ons. A new Internet-based "InfoServices" feature displays user-selected information on the COMMAND screen. Due later this year as an early '02 model is a new C230 2-dr hatchback with a 190-hp supercharged 4 cyl. Also on tap for '02 are a C320 wagon, the first C-Class wagon sold in the U.S., and the high-performance C32 AMG sedan with a 349-hp supercharged V6.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has a clear benchmark; it is the Acura TL (and its 2-door cousin Acura CL). The TL succeeds in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. If you are leaning more toward the luxury scale, the Lexus ES 300 might be a more practical purchase.

We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30.