New C-class estate: the elegant load-carrier

Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI Elegance Estate

What is it?

Estate car version of new C-class saloon. Mercedes claims it has largest in sector load capacity ranging from 485 to 1500 litres. Choice of eight engine options. Five petrol: C180; C200 Kompressor; C230; C280; and C350. Three diesels: C200 CDI; C220 CDI; and C320 CDI. Our test is of the tax-friendly business car C220 CDI model, now developing 170hp.

What’s hot?

• Elegant styling
• Large load area with wide opening tailgate
• Fast and frugal range of engines
• Superb ride quality thanks to new Agility Control suspension system
• Interior passenger space
• Much improved quality and high specification

What’s not?

• Watch for the price going up if options added
• Load floor not flat with rear seats folded down
• Load area fittings not up to the rest of the interior quality

What you need to Know?

P11D Value:	27,737
Monthly Rental*:	446
Tax Band when posted:	22%
Monthly BiK:	101.50 (20%)/£203 (40%)
Engine:	2.2-litre turbo diesel
CO2 Emissions:	159-161g/km
Power/torque:	170hp/400Nm
Economy:	45.9mpg

Monthly rental courtesy of HSBC DriverQuote. Based on 36-month/30,000-mile contract hire agreement with maintenance.

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

The new C-class Estate is quick, refined and polished. It raises the bar in the compact premium estate sector to which other car makers need aspire.