2011 Mercedes-Benz C Class

The differences between Sport and Luxury models carries through to the interior as well. The Sport wears a three-spoke steering wheel and either matte aluminum, burled walnut, or black maple dash trim in sparing amounts, and it has more drab plastic than the Luxury, which dons burled walnut, chrome, and a four-spoke wheel. Overall, the C-Class has the more angular, less flowing look that's been introduced in many of the brand's recent models, with a well-organized cabin with large and clear gauges, plus distinctive-looking door panels and, unfortunately an audio-system interface that's just a little too overwrought with identical black buttons. Somewhat awkwardly, the audio and navigation display is tucked behind a hinged dash panel that sits up while the screen's in use; it works in some vehicles (like the Cadillac CTS family), but it feels cobbled on here.

Also part of the C-Class family is the high-performance C63 AMG. Building on the cues of the C-Class Sport models, the C63 is hard to mistake from the outside, as it looks far more aggressive, with wide performance tires on huge AMG wheels, along with unique AMG spoilers and trim throughout, inside and out. And if it's not enough, the raspy AMG exhaust system comes with twin chrome tailpipes.

Whether in a Sport or Luxury model, the powertrain stays remarkably smooth and composed, with a nice linear power delivery with either engine. The seven-speed automatic that's offered throughout the range shifts cleanly and offers a manual-shift mode for more engaged drivers, but it can feel a little slow to respond. The C-Class range is primarily rear-wheel drive, but the C300 can be ordered with 4Matic all-wheel drive, which is set with a 45:55 rear torque bias and shifts more torque to the front wheels as the rears begin to slip.

Handling in this generation of C-Class was much-improved over previous versions, and Sport models are ever closer to the standard set by BMW. All C-Class sedans have an Agility Control suspension, which uses mechanical switches to change suspension tautness and reduce body motion, while still giving the C-Class a well-controlled ride. The same Sport/Comfort button that speeds up gearchanges and throttle response feeds more feel into the steering and stiffens the suspension. Steering response is quicker that you'd probably expect from a Mercedes, but it's not quite as direct as BMW's 3-Series, and though it loads and unloads nicely the feel can be quite numb. A Dynamic Handling Package was new last year for rear-drive Sport sedans; it fits the suspension with electronically controlled shocks, even faster steering, and AMG 18-inch wheels.

Sport versions are highly recommended, because the ride quality doesn't suffer much at all for its more aggressive cant; the Sport sedan also gets bigger wheels and brakes, as well as a dual exhaust to go with its lower, more tightly sprung suspension.

At the top of the line, is the brilliant (and slightly wicked) C63 AMG, powered by a massive 6.2-liter V-8 that rumbles out 451 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The C63 shoots to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds and can press a top speed of 155 mph even higher, to 186 mph, with an optional sport pack. The seven-speed automatic shifts in a different manner than the rest of the C-Class, with rapid, decisive changes. AMG also tightens handling down to the bare essentials, with almost no body roll, as well as a revised front and rear suspension, a wider track, quicker steering, and big 18-inch wheels with 14.2-inch front disc and 13-inch rear disc brakes.

In front, the wide, flat-bottomed seats are excellent; they don't have much side support but they give the type of support that's good for all-day drives. The driving position in the C-Class is quite good, too, between the telescoping steering wheel, the power driver seat, and the car's tall, glassy cabin. C63 AMG models have similar packaging but get snug-fitting AMG sport seats that will keep you pinned in place in the corners.

The rear seats still are one of the most significant drawbacks of this car. Somehow, Mercedes designers either ran out of space between the front seats and the trunk, or they assumed C-Class buyers won't be using the back seat, but available space back there isn't adequate for most full-sized adults. Average frames will have enough headroom to be comfortable but will still be short on legroom; and taller adults will have to contort to fit in. The trunk is a little small as it is, at 12.4 cubic feet, but this time around Mercedes-Benz didn't forget about interior details; there are plenty of cupholders, door pockets, and a sizable glove box, plus a big center console.

While the base C300 does include some barely luxury-grade plastics, overall the C-Class models come with distinctive materials and excellent fits and finishes. Cabins are well hushed from road and wind noise, though you do hear the engine more than some might expect in a luxury car (Luxury models are quieter).

Those, from the federal government and part of its revised and more stringent tests being conducted on 2011 models for the first time, show the C-Class as only earning four stars overall, including a good five-star side performance but just three stars in the frontal test. And while the new side pole test—which simulates a sideways collision with a tree or pole—isn't yet figured into the overall score, the C-Class managed an imperfect four stars.

The equipment is there, though; all models come equipped with dual front, side, curtain and pelvic airbags, and they offer a rearview camera and rear-seat side airbags.

But there are plenty of chances to pile on options. Top picks include a voice-activated navigation system; Sirius Satellite Radio; a 4GB music hard drive; a media interface for iPods and other MP3 players; a DVD entertainment system; a panoramic sunroof; heated seats; xenon headlamps; a keyless ignition system; trunk- or roof-mounted spoilers; and power lumbar adjustments for the seats. The only things missing are top active-safety and tech features—like active cruise control.

The C63 AMG includes leather upholstery; an AMG gauge pack; a sunroof; dual-zone climate control; Bluetooth; Sirius; a telescoping steering wheel; cruise control; and a garage door opener.

Mercedes-Benz has been offering a turbo-diesel V-6 in the E-Class, called the E350 Bluetec, and even this model gets 22/33. But thus far the automaker hasn't offered any fuel-efficient alternative for the C-Class in the U.S.

That's bound to change, though. If you like the C-Class package but aren't a fan of the unimpressive fuel economy, you might want to hold off until later this year, when the 2012 model will get a new 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine—and an EPA highway rating estimated at around 30 mpg.