2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A station wagon and a high-performance sedan join Mercedes' entry-level line for 2002. Models start with the C230, a 2-dr hatchback coupe with a supercharged 4-cyl engine. The C240 sedan has a 2.6-liter V6. The C320 sedan and new C320 wagon use a 3.2 V6. The new C32 AMG sedan has a supercharged V6, 17-inch wheels vs. other models' 16s, plus sport suspension. The C230 and C240 have standard 6-speed manual transmission. A 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate is optional for those models and is mandatory on C320 and C32. (The C32's "SpeedShift" automatic is programmed for high-performance driving.) All models come with traction control, antiskid system, and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Also included are front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags, and Mercedes' BabySmart child-seat recognition system. Leather upholstery is standard on C32, optional on other models. Available for sedans is a Sport Package with upgraded suspension and aero body add-ons. The coupe's optional Panorama glass sunroof opens wider than other sunroofs and includes a fixed-glass panel over the rear seat, plus dual power sunshades. Mercedes' TeleAid assistance system is optional for C230 and standard elsewhere. Available for all is Mercedes' COMAND navigation system, which includes an Internet-based "InfoServices" feature that displays user-selected information.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has two clear benchmarks; the Acura TL and Lexus ES 300. Both succeed in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 offers a little more luxury and TL, with it's Type-S, a bit more sport.

We Recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series as a rear-drive alternative. The "3" has enough bodystyles and engine choices to suit anyone. At the other end of the near-luxury spectrum is the posh and comfortable Buick Park Avenue--an old-school luxo-cruiser from Detroit.