2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class gets a complete redesign that leaves it slightly longer in wheelbase and overall length compared to the 2001-2007 version. Four models are offered. The C300 Luxury and C300 Sport have a 228-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. The C350 Sport has a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The high-performance C63 is tuned by Mercedes' AMG performance division. It has a 451-hp 6.3-liter V8. All are available with rear-wheel drive. C300 versions can be had with Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on rear-drive C300 models. Optional on those and standard on all other C-Class cars is a 7-speed automatic. Rear-drive automatic-transmission C300s can run on E85, a mixture of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Sport models have a sport suspension and specific styling. C63 has unique trim, performance suspension and brakes, and a special "RACE" mode that includes a stopwatch for measuring racetrack lap times. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Options include a navigation system, bi-xenon headlamps, and 60/40 split folding rear seat.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A3 and Saab 9-3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Volvo C30.