The C-Class Mercedes was originally a replacement for the 190-series. The C-Class was bigger and more powerful and yet the original showroom price was about the same. Market demand quickly out-paced supply. The C-class is smaller, lighter and more nimble than most Mercedes sedans, yet still has traditional Benz sedan personality traits.

These include; a smooth, robust engine, but not particularly quick off the line; a firm, but compliant and quiet ride; well balanced and supremely stable handling characteristics and an on-centre steering with good road feel that inspires driver confidence - yes, this is a polished automobile.

What's under a car's skin is what really matters anyway and the C-class comes with sophisticated active and passive safety features. Dedicated to passenger safety, Mercedes conducts its own crash tests and even does real-world investigations of highway accidents involving its vehicles.

Large doors make it easy to enter and exit its luxurious, highly-functional, but no-frills interior that is quite roomy - although leg room in the rear is a bit tight. Some only-in-a-Mercedes items include a first-aid kit in a compartment on the rear shelf, and rear seat head-restraints that fold flat with the flick of a dash mounted switch to allow better rear vision.