Styling/image
The new C-Class has something of a split personality when it comes to looks. Go for the SE or Elegance versions and you get a traditional Mercedes look, with a three-bar grille and three-pointed star badge on top of the bonnet. However, opt for a Sport model and you’re treated to a big badge in the middle of the grille and an athletic bodykit. All trim levels are available as either a sober four-door saloon or versatile estate. Sitting at the top of the range is the bruising C63 AMG, which is easily identified by its power bulged bonnet, flared wheel arches and 19-inch alloys.

Interior/practicality
There’s more space in the cabin that the last model, with both front and rear passengers benefiting from increased head and legroom. However, taller occupants will find their heads brushing the ceiling in cara fitted with the optional panoramic glass and. Luggage capacity is class competitive with the saloon capable of swallowing 475-litres. Pick the estate and you’ll have a maximum of 1,500-litres at your disposal. Elsewhere, the C-class interior is well laid out and solidly constructed, although the quality of the plastics isn’t quite up to the standards set by rivals from BMW and Audi.

Engine/performance
There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to engines. Petrol powerplants range from the 154bhp turbocharged 1.6-litre in the C180 through to the 268bhp 3.5-litre V6 C350. The diesel line-up consists of a 2.2-litre four-cylinder unit that comes with 136bhp, 168bhp or 201bhp, while at the top of the range is a muscular 221bhp 3.0-litre V6 that will blast the Merc from zero to 60mph in only 7.1 seconds. All the smaller units get a six-speed manual gearbox, while five and seven ratio automatic transmissions are available at extra cost. At the top of the range is the fire-breathing 450bhp 6.2-litre V8 C63 AMG.

Driving experience
Relaxation is the name of the game when driving Elegance and SE models. A supple ride and light controls make these versions excellent long distance cruisers. For Sport trim the suspension is lowered by 15mm, the steering tuned to give a sharper response and the front brakes are cross-drilled. As a result the car feels more agile, but the trade-off is a much firmer ride. Keen drivers will love the lairy C63 AMG, although only the brave should switch of the traction control!

Ownership costs
The C-Class won’t be cheap to buy, but with residuals of between 40 and 45 percent you should get a good return on your investment. In isolation the Mercedes’ fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are competitive, although they fall short of the excellent standard set by BMW. Expect to pay between £120 and £405 for the annual tax disc depending on model.

Safety/environment
With a five-star EuroNCAP rating the C-Class upholds Mercedes reputation for safety. Equipment includes seven airbags, an anti-whiplash head restraint system and electronic stability control. The BlueEFFICIENCY badge is used on the firm's eco-friendly models, including the C220 CDI, which has CO2 emissions of 127g/km. At the other end of the scale is the 232g/km produced by the C63 AMG.

Our choices: Mercedes-Benz C-Class 220 CDI Elegance