Overview
 
The Mercedes C-Class is best summed up as ‘smart casual.’ It’s the perfect car for those who want to travel in comfort but do so with a touch of class and sophistication.
 
Think of the Mercedes C-Class as a comfortable and traditional brogue, while the BMW 3 Series is a more modern but less cosseting loafer.
 
The C-Class comes in a wide range of styles. As well as this saloon you can also get a two-door coupe, a more practical estate and even a drop-top convertible – something of a rarity these days.
Despite their more business-like approach, this saloon version is certainly not the boring pick of the range. It’s arguably the most stylish out of all of its alternatives – the styling is similar to the sophisticated and swooping S-Class. There’s no sign of the BMW 3 Series’ slightly aggressive looks, and there are none of the sharp angles that appear on the Audi A4.
 
This continues inside, where the Mercedes manages to combine a touch of poshness and modernity. It features a selection of sweeping lines and a lovely uncluttered design. The materials convey a real upmarket feel, too – metal switches and an unpolished wood centre console are two of the highlights.