2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

A totally redesigned full-time system that marries to Mercedes' seven-speed automatic transmission, it debuted last year on the new S-Class sedan and is optionally available on both '08 C300 models. While earlier 4MATIC systems needed special suspension parts and a wider transmission tunnel, this new one fits in the standard body and works with the existing front suspension. And its fuel efficiency is improved by minimizing the weight of the extra gears and shafts that drive the front wheels (about 145 lb.) and the energy needed to turn them.


The C300s are powered by Mercedes' 228-hp dual overhead cam (DOHC) 24-valve 3.0-liter V-6, which provides a decent 221 lb.-ft. of torque. The $36,500 C350 ups that ante by 40 horses and 37 lb-ft to 268 and 258, respectively, from its 3.5-liter V-6. But even that is underpowered compared to rival BMW's 300-hp twin-turbocharged 335i and Cadillac's 304-hp direct-injected V-6 CTS, for example. EPA fuel economy is 18 mpg city, 25 highway, 21 combined for the 3.0-liter and 17/25/20 for the 3.5-liter V-6.


Nearly four inches longer and 1.7 inches wider on a wheelbase 1.8-inches longer than the previous model's, the new C-Class boasts a roomier cabin front and rear. As expected in this price class, it's also luxury car quiet and comfortable. At 16.8 cubic feet, the new Cs also boast four percent more trunk room than the outgoing models.

Quiet, Commodious Cabin

Besides precise-looking speedometer and tachometer (engine rpm) dials, their new instrument cluster has a fuel level and (unlike BMW) a coolant temperature gauge. A display in the center of the speedometer is driven by a 12-button set of controls on the steering wheel spokes that can call up fuel range, oil level, phone and audio system information such as radio station, CD track or (with optional iPod integration) an iPod playlist. If the car has the available navigation system, it will also show "next-turn" directions.


The interior in our test C350 Sport was tastefully trimmed in soft-touch grained black vinyl with subtle chrome accents and slashes of rich, dark wood on the door panels. One consistent Mercedes complaint: the cruise control stalk at the upper left of the steering wheel is way too easy to hit instead of the (lower than normal) turn signal stalk.