In what Mercedes-Benz are terming their, "product-in-product" strategy, buyers of the new C-Class will have a choice of three different C-Class product lines, Avantgarde, Elegance and Classic. Very expensive sounding names if you ask me!

The new range of Saloons feature a whole host of interesting new technologies, that will no doubt filter through to the lower end of the market as the years go by.

The C-Class features adaptive braking, based on the technology of the S-Class, that provides additional support functions for the driver. Examples of the adaptive braking functions include "Start-Off Assist" for uphill gradients, priming the braking system in critical situations and light contact to dry the brake discs in wet conditions.

Cars in the C-Class range include eight airbags as standard equipment: two adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, two sidebags in the front seat backrests as well as sidebags for the rear seat row along with two large windowbags which extend from the A to the C-pillar during a side impact.

Perhaps one of the best features of the C-Class range is its intelligent safety systems. The vehicle is capable of detect if it is engaging in a dangerous maneuver, such as heavy under or over steering, and activates several safety systems as a precaution to prepare the vehicle and its occupants for a possible crash. In effect, this means that passive safety systems do not necessarily wait until impact before going through their motions.

Performance wise, the supercharged four-cylinder engines have undergone an overhaul, with an increase in output by up to 12.5% and around 18% in torque. The C200 Kompressor, for example, has an output of 135kW.

The V6 engines in the C 280 put out 170kW, with what Mercedes claim is the world's only seven-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of in car entertainment, the C-Class range packs in as many techno-gizmos as you would expect from a luxury car. The in car navigation system runs from a 30Gb hard drive, and displayed on a 7-inch screen.

Pricing wise, the Australian recommended retail prices are reasonable. You could expect to pick up C200 Kompressor for $56,990, C220 CDI for $60,274 or the C280 Petrol V6 for $84,974.

Overall the C-Class line is an impressive range of vehicles, with an impressive range of features, sure to do well in the luxury segment.

Popularity: 21% [?]