Mercedes-Benz C-Class Pre Model 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Elegance Auto 4dr Car Review - March 2012

The performance credentials are strong and the engine delivers a decent power output of 154 bhp at 5000 rpm with torque figures of 184 lb-ft at 1600-4200 rpm, giving it a top speed of 139 mph. Acceleration is fairly rapid with the car reaching 0-62 mph in just 8.9 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 experiencing 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.

Unfortunately, efficiency is not a strong point of this car and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate range offers much better economic value. This model achieves just 44.1 mpg on a combine cycle and road tax costs are high under price band G due to high carbon emissions of 155 g/km.

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. Man-made leather seats are also a standard option and a chrome trim enhances the interior.

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 £28,820. Resale values are strong which helps to make up for this, especially for buyers who are looking for long term ownership.

Unfortunately, running costs are fairly high in this model with limited fuel efficiency making refuelling more common. On top of this, insurance premiums and road tax costs feature at the upper end of the scale under price bands 30 and G respectively.