Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes C55 AMG saloon

Now the entire C-Class range has been given a sporty makeover, Mercedes has decided to offer a muscular flagship version. With a 5.4-litre 367bhp engine, the C55 is the fastest production C-Class ever - but squeezing a V8 into it wasn't easy.

Fast and luxurious, Mercedes' new C55 AMG is an ideal motorway cruiser. However, a sensitive throttle, as well as huge amounts of low-down torque, mean it's easy to spin the wheels, even with the traction control on.

Now the entire C-Class range has been given a sporty makeover, Mercedes has decided to offer a muscular flagship version. With a 5.4-litre 367bhp engine, the C55 is the fastest production C-Class ever - but squeezing a V8 into it wasn't easy.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The front of the car had to be extended by 8cm, so while some designers were busy fitting 18-inch alloys, side skirts and a rear spoiler, others were ensuring the longer nose didn't spoil the imposing lines.

And after driving the C55 AMG, we can confirm that it goes as well as it looks. Mercedes claims a 0-60mph time of 5.2 seconds and a 155mph top speed - and we can believe it! Thanks to the 510Nm of torque, overtaking is in the warp speed category, whether you use the steering wheel button shift or full auto mode, while the quad tail-pipes burble menacingly. The trouble is, even a slight tap on the accelerator causes the car to surge forward. The all-or-nothing throttle means the warning light for the revised ESP seems to be on more than off as the rear tyres struggle for grip. In the dry this can be fun - but wet, twisty roads are not for the faint-hearted.

If you want to cover distances fast and in comfort, the C55 AMG makes for a good companion. But B-road drivers would be better off in a less potent car.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £6,682 off RRP*Used from £12,300
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,295
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,919 off RRP*Used from £14,800
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,450 off RRP*Used from £11,895
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025