Adequately powered
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 gets a 228-horsepower V6 allowing you to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just under 7 seconds. Engine output and dynamics are virtually beyond reproach. While the 7G-TRONIC autobox offers 7 gears, I found it slow to react at times. That said, shifts are very smooth, which makes the driving experience more pleasant and comfortable.

The C300 gets a 228-horsepower V6 allowing you to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just under 7 seconds.

The suspension of my Avantgarde tester proved slightly firmer than the Classic model's. As a result, ride comfort is affected, especially on Quebec's bumpy roads. On the plus side, the ride is quiet and the cabin remains pretty serene.

Clearly, though, the steering is overly assisted. This results in limited feedback from the road and less fun behind the wheel. The C-Class somewhat makes up for it by adding a sophisticated 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system with 4-ETS. Handling is sharp regardless of road conditions. In fact, last winter, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC was the winner of our AWD sedan comparison test.

The brakes are well calibrated and nicely assisted, making them easy to modulate for quick, efficient stops. The list of safety features is extensive; actually, this Mercedes is among the safest cars in the world. Could it be "too safe"? Granted, engineers did not overlook a single aspect, but the electronic nannies are a bit too intrusive and can't be completely turned off. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP), among others, steps in way too soon and not progressively. As expected, the C-Class comes standard with 6 airbags.

Competition
Rivals are fierce and in large numbers. We're talking about the very best compact sedans on the planet. The C's arch nemesis is the 3-Series which, in 328xi trim ($43,600), delivers superior handling, not to mention 2 additional horsepower. The Audi A4 2.0T quattro is considerably cheaper at $35,350, although the next-generation model has yet to arrive.

With the 4MATIC, handling is sharp regardless of road conditions.