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With the introduction of a base four-cylinder engine in the C250, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is now a more direct rival to the likes of the Audi A4--as well as the BMW 3-Series, which also gets a new four.
Compared to the A4, the C-Class is priced and equipped much the same, though the A4 offers quattro all-wheel drive though more of the lineup and its interior design is arguably still a step ahead.
The C-Class, on the other hand, offers a stronger luxury image.
BMW's 3-Series continues to stand out as the handling and steering champ, although its interior is also quite cramped.
The Lexus IS models remain competitive but lack the luxury sheen and desirability of most of this group, yet their prices are nearly the same.
Finally, Acura's TSX is a recommendation if don't mind giving up some image and want to save a few thousand dollars while getting an enjoyable, even slightly roomier compact sedan.
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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C ClassBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Acura TSXBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Audi A4Browse Used Listings |  2012 BMW 3-SeriesBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||
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With a new base four-cylinder engine, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class makes even more sense for value-conscious (yet image-conscious) luxury shoppers. |
With attractive designs and a light, efficient driving feel, the 2012 Acura TSX lineup strikes an ideal balance for a front-wheel-drive sport sedan or sport wagon. |
The 2012 Audi A4 provides an engaging driving experience, impressive in-cabin technology, and surprisingly great fuel efficiency—making it a good everyday driver among premium sedans. |
Despite the weight gain, the BMW M3's still one of the most stunning performance vehicles we've driven. |
| MSRP From | |||
| $34,800 | $30,010 | $32,500 | $34,900 |
| Gas Mileage | |||
| 15 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||
| Turbocharged Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | |||
| Compact | Compact | Compact Cars | Compact Cars |
| Style Name | |||
| 4-Door Sedan C 250 Sport RWD | 4-Door Sedan I4 Automatic | 4-Door Sedan CVT FrontTrak 2.0T Premium | 4-Door Sedan 328i RWD |
| Drivetrain | |||
| Rear Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||
| 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
| Transmission | |||
| Automatic | Automatic | Continuously Variable Ratio | Manual |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class vs. 2012 Acura TSX | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class vs. 2012 Audi A4 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class vs. 2012 BMW 3-Series | |
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