2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Road Test Ratings

Comfortable seating with ample, and in the case of the C63 AMG, obnoxious amounts of power. Styling is questionable, but build quality top-notch. The C-Class is a strong contender in the sport/luxury sedan segment.

While neither of the C-Class' (3.0L or 3.5L) V6s is considered a high-performance benchmark in the segment, they do provide ample power and efficiency for most people. The V8-powered, 451 horsepower C63 AMG is available for those needing more. The seven-speed automatic transmission, however, is one of the best in the business. This C-Class has a lively and willing chassis without giving up much comfort. Sport package-equipped cars and those with the optional 18-inch wheels will ride more harshly.

This is a compact car best suited for two, occasionally three or four, and rarely five occupants. Dual-rate shock absorbers do a reasonably good job of taking rough edges off uneven pavement. Wind and road noise are highly variable and mostly surface/environment-dependent. Seats are firm, and as such, are well-suited to long hauls.

The car's interior places a high priority on functionality. While it may not look as stylish as others in this class, all the controls are in their proper places. A standard central-control knob integrates system and infotainment selections that are displayed on a pop-up screen. Luckily, all of the high-use functions are accessible without the use of this new knob or are, at least, redundantly represented elsewhere with hard buttons. Also now standard is a 12-function steering wheel. Multimedia package is worth the extra money.

We feel the styling cues borrowed from other Mercedes-Benz family members don't necessarily work here. Also, the design language and implementation on the Luxury model is better than that of the Sport model. That said, the build quality is top-notch, as are the interior materials and standard/optional equipment.