Overview
STUNG by critics blasting the previous model for being too uninvolving to drive and un-Mercedes like in quality, the Germans have created a different type of C-class – one in which a BMW driver might feel at home; one that rivals Audi for ambience and cabin presentation; and one that won’t be left too far behind by Lexus’ compelling value pricing.
The question is though: Is the new W204 a new and better type of compact luxury car for the marque, or is it closer to the old Mercedes ideal of bank-vault design and engineering?
Model release dates: August 2007 - May 2010
Previous model
With its shrunken S-class styling and vast array of engines, the W203 should have been a Benz classic.
And the many new-to-Mercedes buyers would be happy with the dynamics, speed, driveability and space that the good-looking and well-proportioned sedan offered.
But the cabin quality not only lagged behind Mercedes’ previously rock-solid levels, the competition seemed to build their cars better.
A bewildering model array was offered, from the early (2000—02) 95kW/185Nm 2.0-litre petrol four, and its 105kW/220Nm C180K and 120kW/240Nm C200K 1.8-litre supercharged Kompressor successor, to the smooth 125kW/240Nm 2.6-litre C240 V6 and 160kW/310Nm 3.2-litre C320; Turbo-diesels also figures strongly, with the 105kW/315Nm 2.2-litre C220 CDI remaining throughout the W203’s almost seven-year run.
For performance fans, there was also the 260kW/460Nm 3.2-litre supercharged V6 C32 AMG until 2004, when a thorough facelift for the whole range saw the 270kW/510Nm 5.4-litre V8 C55 AMG replace it, as well as a 150kW/245Nm 2.5-litre V6 C230 and 200kW/350Nm V6 C350 in the more mundane V6 models.