When ordering the 300 with AWD, there are a few add-ons which come standard regardless of trim level. These include an

When ordering the 300 with AWD, there are a few add-ons which come standard regardless of trim level. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

upgrade to the American-built version of Benz's venerable five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick manual mode for V6-powered models, as well as grippy 225/60-series Continental touring tires (optional runflats) mounted on beautiful six-spoke, polished 18-inch alloy wheels. They're an upgrade from the standard 215/60 series doughnuts. AWD models also receive a special technical package which adds larger front brakes. There's also a slightly larger fuel tank (72 litres vs. 68 litres) to compensate for the additional drain from AWD. Interestingly, the 300 AWD (base model) is a specialty to Canada; in the States, this model is not offered, as the entry-level engine is a 2.7-litre 190-hp model. North of the 49th, the basic motor is a 3.5-litre 250-hp 'high output' V6, which is compatible with the drivetrain components. It's an excellent value, starting at just $34,090, and much more interesting than its competition. My tester came loaded to the gills with every option available except wood trim. Price? $60K easy, said friends and strangers, but they're off by nearly ten grand. As tested, the price rang in at $50,595, though a 300C AWD can be had for as little as

My tester came loaded to the gills with every option available except wood trim, and still barely broke the $50,000 mark. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)

$45,350, an enormous amount of metal for the money. As good as the 300C AWD is, it has its drawbacks - the appealing looks, and spaciousness from a wheelbase that is comparable to that of most full-size trucks, can make some situations more frustrating than enjoyable. Parking in conventional-sized parking spaces is a chore, sometimes taking two or three attempts to get into a tighter one. You'd best forget about the arm-twirling strain of parallel parking and reverse parking; the bunker-slit windows and high trunk make reversing a chore and a half. The optional Park Assist function takes the guesswork out of some of the ordeal, though.