KEY POINTS:
Where to start? The purpose of this evaluation was to drive the C-class with the new 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine option (as per the ML-class, Chrysler 300C and a lot of other stuff). But our car also turned up in five-door estate form.
Engine first; it's always been a beauty, but I've never had the chance to drive the so-called "320 CDI" in something small and nimble. The C-class - the dynamic equal of BMW's 3-series and arguably better - is just that. The virtuoso chassis of this compact Mercedes is the perfect means to tame the V6 diesel's 510Nm of torque. There's never any doubt that this is a rear-drive car - tickle the throttle in virtually any gear and there's a playful wriggle from the rear - but the C-class is such a beautifully engineered machine it never feels as if it's on the edge.
And in wagon form, it's beautiful too. Audi has traditionally had the stranglehold on wagons in this segment with its Avant models, but the C-class shows Mercedes - which built its share of too-sensible boxes in the past - can do stylish sports estates as well. The company also claims it's larger inside than the Audi A4 Avant and BMW 3-series Touring, with 485-1500 litres of loadspace. Yeah, whatever - just look at it.
This is such a classy and highly desirable car - more so than the C-class sedan - I'd question the need to move into an E-class unless you're desperate for space. It didn't hurt that our test car came with $16,300 worth of options, including an Advanced Agility suspension package and AMG styling kit. But even at $123,200, this is still one awesome estate car for the money. Recommended.
