Mercedes C250 Sport
Strong blend of performance and practicality makes it tough to beat
When it comes to estate car heritage, only Mercedes can match Volvo’s strong track record. The German brand’s load carriers have been family favourites for decades, delivering plenty of space, versatility and desirability – and the C-Class is no exception.
Despite being nearly three years old, the Mercedes still represents a stern test for any rival aiming to steal the compact executive estate car crown.
While it doesn’t look quite as fresh as the Volvo or Audi, the C-Class still has plenty of kerb appeal. With its upright rear end and elegant proportions, the luxury machine looks more like a traditional load carrier than its rakish rivals.
Our Sport trim test car was given extra visual impact thanks to its subtle bodykit and racy 17-inch alloy wheels, while the large three-pointed star on the grille guarantees the C-Class plenty of car park kudos.
Climb aboard, and you’re confronted with a typically restrained Mercedes cabin.
It’s packed with high-quality materials and is well built, but lacks the flair of the Volvo.
At least there’s a decent amount of kit, with half-leather trim for the seats, climate control and Bluetooth connectivity all standard. There are no complaints about the amount of space on offer, either. Rear passengers get plenty of leg
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The C-Class is the only one of our contenders to feature a powered tailgate, and it glides open to reveal a healthy 485-litre carrying capacity. Fold the rear bench flat and the available volume is increased to an impressive 1,500 litres –
the biggest here.
Better still, the boot is well shaped and boasts the lowest loading lip, making it easier to stow heavy items. A pair of storage nets, some load-securing eyelets and a 12V power supply add to the Merc’s versatility.
Keen drivers will be pleased to learn the C-Class mixes this sensible practicality with strong performance. At the test track, the 201bhp 2.1-litre diesel C250 dominated its less powerful rivals, blasting from 0-60mph in only 7.6 seconds, which was a full two seconds faster than the Volvo. But it’s the muscular mid-range urge that really makes its mark, giving the Merc effortless overtaking pace.
As you’d expect of a Sport-badged model, the C-Class has been tuned for sharp driving dynamics. The speed-sensitive power-steering is well weighted and accurate, while adaptive damping helps deliver surprising poise through corners.
It’s not as involving as the BMW, but the Merc’s firm suspension serves up a strong balance between ride and handling. Only the slightly clunky action of the six-speed manual gearbox spoils the driving experience.
Another stumbling block is the C250’s hefty £32,135 asking price, which makes it a whopping £2,115 more expensive than the V60. Will the Merc’s additional performance and practicality be enough to offset the extra outlay, and give it the win here?
Details
Chart position: 1
WHY: With a large load bay and rock-solid build quality, the C250 upholds Mercedes’ reputation for building desirable estate cars. Powerful 2.1-litre diesel delivers surprising pace.
