2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Revised styling and introduction of a high-performance V8 model highlight 2005 changes to Mercedes-Benz' least-expensive cars. The C-Class offers three body styles: sedan, wagon, and 2-dr hatchback coupe. Mercedes divides the line into Sport and Luxury versions.

C230s have a 189-hp supercharged 4-cyl engine; they come in Sport Coupe and Sport Sedan trim. C240s have a 168-hp V6; they come as Luxury Sedans and Wagons. C320s have a 215-hp V6; they come as a Sport Coupe and Sedan, and as a Luxury Sedan. The new high-performance C55 AMG sedan has a 362-hp V8. It replaces the 349-hp V6 C32 AMG sedan and has front-end styling distinct from other models'. C230 Sport and C320 Sport models are available with a 6-speed manual transmission or the 5-speed automatic that's standard on the other models. Rear-wheel drive is standard. The C240 sedan and wagon and C320 sedan are available with Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive. Due during the '05 model year is a 3.5-liter replacement for the C320's 3.2-liter V6.

For '05, Luxury Sedans and Wagons get new-style wheels and adopt body trim used on the 2004 Sport versions. Sport Sedans adopt body trim used on the C32 AMG. Sport Coupes get a perforated grille. All have revised headlamps and taillamps and a redesigned dashboard. Interior trim--wood on Luxury versions, aluminum on Sports--is also revised.

The C55 and Sports come with sport-tuned suspension. The C55 has 18-inch wheels, the Sports 17s; other models have 16s. Every C-Class has ABS, antiskid/traction control, front/rear side airbags, and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Options include a navigation system and bi-xenon headlamps. Coupes are available with Mercedes' large Panorama sunroof that teams with a fixed-glass panel over the rear seat; each has a power sunshade.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our single Best Buy in the Premium Compact Car class is the Acura TSX. Our Recommended picks include the BMW 3-Series and the Saab 9-3.