What’s hot?

• Potent edition of the new C Class saloon with well proven 2.1-litre CDI engine, good for 204 bhp plus colossal torque of 500 Nm.
• That huge torque, peaking between 1600 -1800 rpm makes the C250 highly tractable. Effortless acceleration off the line.
• In AMG trim, the C250 is fun, taut and precise on the move. Kit includes AMG Sport suspension lowered by 15 mm, Sports Direct-steer plus Agility Select, giving a choice of driving modes.
• The C-Class’ stiff, lightweight, all-new is fashionably sleek and sculptured. Also said to have best-in-class aerodynamics.
• Fabulous inside with sweeping new designer dashboard matched to high quality finish, trim and colour choice. Feels a special place to be.
• Generous space in both front and back, plus bigger boot capacity (480 litres) than last C-Class.
• AMG sports seats, stylish and supportive, another of the cabin highs.
• Despite quick 6.6 secs for 0-60 mph and 153 mph top end, the C250 still offers a competitive 65.7 mpg combined.
• C02 emissions of 113 g/km are the same as the lower powered C220
• Lengthy kit list includes Active Park Assist; reversing camera; rain sensing wipers; Attention Assist; Collision Prevention Assist; Garmin Map Pilot sat nav; 7-inch high res multimedia screen; 7-speed 7G-Tronic auto box with steering wheel paddleshift.

 What’s not?

• Though commendably efficient, the Merc’s 2143 cc CDI four cylinder engine sounds dull and drones at high rpm
• New C-Class shape too close to the E-Class and S-Class?
• Likely to be overshadowed in the business car world by cheaper C220 and new hi-tech C300 hybrid (94 g/km)