2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

After the Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuted in 2007, some questioned the luxury car credentials, given the sub-par interior. The 2012 model should dispel concern with a redesigned interior made ​​from high quality plastic similar to what you find in the larger E-Class. Present a new instrument panel and the switch looks like it was inspired by the CLS, as well. The all-new interior features a color instrument cluster display and a new generation telematics system.

Under the Hood Two new engines. The model 2012 provides a four-cylinder to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup, a 1.8-liter turbo engine excellent fuel economy and competitive entry-level HP offers. The 3.5-liter V-6 has direct injection technology for improved fuel economy and power. The existing 3.0-liter V-6 remains the only engine available in all-wheel-drive 4Matic C-Class sedans, and a more efficient seven-speed automatic transmission, six-speed gearbox has been dropped. For those who demand more horsepower, the C63 AMG is available again, but this year in sedan and coupe form.

Also new this year is a C-Class coupe. Using the same engines as the saloon, Mercedes-Benz with one second to go in the sale of a C-Class coupe on the U.S. market. While the latest generation of the model does not sell well, the more enjoyable styled 2012 model have a better chance.

Body: Sedan, coupe

Engine: 1.8-liter inline-4, 3.0-liter V-6, 3.5-liter V-6, 302

Transmission: seven-speed automatic

Models (coupe and sedan): C250 Sport, C300 Luxury, C300 Sport, C350 Sport, C63 AMG

Besides the addition of new convenience and performance features, the C-Class offers a wide range of new Mercedes-Benz safety systems, such as the standard Attention Assist and Adaptive Brake technology. Other optional safety equipment includes Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist camera-based and adaptive high beam assistant.

Other changes include new bumpers, grille, headlights, an aluminum hood, LED daytime running lights and taillights. The completely redesigned interior features a color instrument cluster display and a new generation telematics system. Under the hood is a choice of two new direct injection engines combined with an efficient seven-speed automatic transmission. The coupe body is new, and there is now a four-cylinder base engine.

The C-Class sedan has been freshened for the 2012 model year. Updated headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights are also new. The C300 models ride on 17-inch wheels are offered in several versions, while the improved AMG gets 18-inch wheels. The C350 is for the most part dressed C300 Sport with the Premium I package, a larger V-6 and maple wood trim. The C63 AMG is dressed the same way, but subs from the V-6 for a V-8 and larger brakes. The typical AMG logos are visible inside and outside the vehicle with leather sports seats also switched.

The C-Class offers a wood trim and a two-tone paint scheme, plus an iPod interface. Although the current C-Class is larger than its predecessors, we would not recommend it as a daily ride for a growing family. The rear seats are positioned as bucket seats. The trunk is small, but offering 12.4 cubic feet for cargo hold.

A 3.5-liter V-6 is what has many fans eager Mercedes-Benz at the bit to get their hands on the wheel of the C-Class. The C350 coupe and sedan driving on a standard performance suspension and a small suitcase helps balance out the ride. If comfort is what you want, the coupe is the weapon of your choice and still gives the driver good feedback during the use of larger curves. The coupe is lower than the sedan, and comes with stiffer shock absorbers and sports suspension. The C350 can corner just as good as the next luxury sedan, but really stands out for its steering behavior feedback.

For 2012, Mercedes-Benz Attention Assist and Adaptive Brake added technology, all standard. Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Adaptive High Beam Assist all work collectively with other safety equipment on board the C-Class. You can expect regular Benz safety features like dual front side airbags, head curtains and a driver-side knee bag. Roadside assistance, tire pressure monitoring, and four-wheel discs with ABS are standard, too.

C250: 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway

C300 4Matic: 18 mpg city/24-25 mpg highway

C350 Sedan: 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway

C350 Coupe: 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway

C63 AMG: 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway