2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Road Test

Best all-around performers are the C320s. A test sedan accelerated from 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds; the wagon felt a little slower. The manual-transmission C240 is a bit underpowered for this class, at 9.2 seconds 0-60. With automatic, a C230 sedan managed this feat in 8.1 seconds, versus 6.9 seconds for the C230 coupe. A test C32 took just 5.1 seconds, but supercharger-related throttle lag blunts the midrange thrust a bit. Mercedes said the AWD hardware added about 200 pounds, but acceleration is virtually the same as rear-drive counterparts. Fuel economy is about as expected. A test C320 sedan averaged 19.2 mpg, despite gas-eating performance runs, but a wagon logged just 15.7 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Comparable conditions yielded 18.4 mpg with a manual-transmission C240, and 19.3 to 22.2 mpg for automatic versions. With automatic, a C230 sedan managed 23.4 mpg, versus 21.1 mpg for a C320 sedan with 4Matic. A test C32 averaged 20.3 mpg in mostly highway travel. All engines require premium fuel. Ride comfort is a strong point regardless of model. C-Class sedans and wagons are supple and composed on most surfaces, with the base suspension. Coupes are a bit stiffer and more-fidgety. So are sedans with the optional 17-inch tires, and the C32, but they're still comfortable. All-wheel drive does not affect ride quality. Steering/handling is assured and highly capable, especially in the C32. The 17-inch wheel option for sports coupes and sedans enhances the base chassis' already good grip and steering response. Coupes have slightly sharper moves than sedans, but aren't quite sports-car nimble. The standard antiskid/traction system is a foul-weather security benefit for any rear-drive C-Class. All-wheel drive has obvious appeal for snowbelt buyers, but all-season tires are a must on all models. Brakes deliver short, undramatic emergency stops, but pedal action was slightly touchy on some test cars. Quietness is a virtue, led by impressively low wind rush. All engines are quiet and refined; the V6s rise only to a distant growl at top rpm. Road noise is relatively high in the coupe with a Panorama sunroof, C32, and sedans with the 17-inch wheel option, which includes more aggressive tires. Instruments and controls are typical Mercedes, with sober design and a few cryptic controls. Steering-wheel switches for calling up vehicle and trip data take time to sort out, as does the optional navigation system. Power-window switches are too low on the doors, and aren't lighted. Cabin materials and finish generally satisfy, except for some plastics and assembly details, especially on coupes. Even though the front is a bit cozy-feeling, six-footers have plenty of space. Some drivers might find that the firm seats lack sufficient lumbar support, but the standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel helps tailor a good basic driving stance. The "busy" tail design hampers coupe visibility astern and over-the-shoulder, but the tinted glass panel below the hatch window helps when parking. Sedans and wagons have adequate rear space for two adults, but no more. Riders sit knees-up if front seats are more than halfway back. Under-seat foot room also is at a premium. The two-passenger rear seat isn't as cramped as in most coupes; youngsters or medium-size adults ride in relative comfort, though entry/exit is a chore. The usefully-shaped sedan trunk holds more than its 12-cubic-foot volume implies. Wagons are truly useful, with some 15 cubic feet more cargo room than a BMW 3-Series wagon. Coupes have fine cargo space even with the rear seat up. Split-fold rear seats enhance versatility in all models, but they have been optional in sedans.

Value for the Money
C320 sedans and wagons, in particular, are desirable near-luxury cars. Despite some cutrate interior details, they vie with the best in class for driving composure, features, and long-term value. The 4Matic all-wheel-drive option (since 2003) is a plus for some buyers, matching Audi and BMW models for all-season security, but it costs more. The C230 coupe had Mercedes' lowest base price when new, but skipped on standard luxuries. Less accommodating than sedans, C-Class coupes have been slow sellers.