German Car Zone

I first drove the newest Mercedes-Benz C-class in Europe in the summer of 2007. I was impressed. The steering was a big step up from the old car's yet the baby Benz still felt like a proper Benz. My impressions of the car in the USA later in 2007 weren't as good. I found the ride quality a bit harsh on U.S. roads, the interior plastics not up to spec, and the steering not as linear as the model I tested in Europe. This latest C-class test car reminded me that the small Mercedes is indeed a very nice car. Sure, I prefer the way the newest BMW 3-series drives when pushed, but this latest C-class runs the BMW much closer than ever before. I'd still like to see nicer dash materials, and the seven-speed automatic transmission is sluggish, but if you want a Mercedes but don't want to spend big money, the C-class delivers.

Marc Noordeloos, Road Test Editor


More Editor Reviews: Automobile Magazine - REVIEWS: 2009 Mercedes Benz C300 4Matic


M

I am so sick of these baseless "interior sucks" complaints. First of all I got the impression that he thinks our European W204s have better interior materials than the US-spec version. What the hell?

These same reviewers that slam the W204 C-Class interior will then blindly go on talking about how "high quality the Lexus IS interior" is when in reality, Lexus simply does a good job of masking a cheap interior and making it appear high quality through the use of silver-colored plastics. I swear, if the W204 C-Class cockpit had silver-colored buttons and plastics across the center console these guys would be rallying for it to win awards!

The C-Class interior might not be flashy but it certainly is well-built and the materials are more than good enough to be slotted under the premium nomenclature. This guy should really pay attention to the finer points of the interior, not just glancing at the whole thing for five seconds and then proclaiming that it is "cheap".

I'll say it again (and will probably have to mention this again):

The W204 C-Class interior is high quality and prremium. Spend some quality time inside the car and you'll figure that out.


Maybe this guy had too much of those beers from that beer truck in the back. It impaired his judgement.

^Absolutely agree with u Chris here,that guy is blowing lots of air,the two versions of the car definitely has the same quality interior unless the US spec is made there which is not

You may be right Chris about the beers!

Look at the rear rims, its all scratched

Let's report this guy to his superiors for "Reporting under the influence!"