Mercedes-Benz C-Class Pre Model 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport 4dr Car Review - March 2012

The performance credentials are essentially the same as the 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Elegance, delivering a decent power output of 201 bhp at 4200 rpm with torque figures of 368 lb-ft at 1600-1800 rpm, giving it a top speed of 149 mph. Acceleration is fairly rapid with the car reaching 0-62 mph in just 7.0 seconds.

These strong performance credentials combine with smooth handling to make this car responsive and stable on the road. Suspension is adaptive and the car is able to change direction quickly without experience excess body roll.

In terms of noise disruption, the car is fairly refined although there can be some noise from the engine when worked hard. Road noise filters into the car’s cabin on certain road surfaces but this won’t cause much disruption.

The car is fairly attractive and offers a good range of internal equipment. Standard features include: power steering, central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, cruise control, rear parking sensors, a built-in sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity and an advanced stereo system with CD and MP3 connectivity.

This model benefits from cloth/manmade leather sports seats as standard along with other improvements on the Elegance model, such as larger 18 inch 7-twin spoke alloys. The front radiator grille is also surrounded by bi-xenon headlights whilst the interior trim is upgraded from the chrome of the Elegance model to brushed aluminium.

As a family car, practicality and comfort should be the main priority of this vehicle. However, whilst four adults can be sat comfortably within the cabin the central rear seat is highly uncomfortable due to the bulky transmission tunnel and this affects the practicality of the model.

There is plenty of adjustment available within both the seats and the steering column and this allows everyone to achieve the most comfortable position. As stated above, road noise and other disturbances are kept to a minimum and this means the cabin is a fairly quiet place to be.

In terms of safety, this car is a great option – as demonstrated by its results from the NCAP crash tests. Here the car scored an impressive five star rating for occupant safety and overall safety, making it a great car for families.

This is partly due to the advanced safety kit which comes fitted as standard to the models. This offers driver, passenger and front side airbags as standard with an alarm and immobiliser fitted to protect the car from theft.

The car also comes with a three year warranty for unlimited miles which is designed to offer buyers security and assurances over their purchase.

Like other Mercedes-Benz models, this car is fairly expensive with a purchase price of £32,520. This makes the car just £200 dearer than the sport model – something many buyers may feel is justified by the enhanced comfort levels.

Like the Elegance model, this version outperforms the petrol models within this range and, with strong resale values, is a great investment for those looking for long term ownership.