One drive is all it takes to sense the real differences between a Mercedes-Benz C-Class and other entry luxury sedans. But which C-Class? Not only does the C-Class offer a choice of performance levels as others in the segment do, but it also comes in two distinct “flavors” – Luxury and Sport.
The reason for the choice between Mercedes-Benz C-Class Luxury and Sport models becomes clear when you see and drive them. Not only do these versions drive differently from each other, but each also has its own exterior design and interior trim.
The C-Class Sport is distinguished by its horizontal-style grille with a star emblem in the center along with lower body cladding from the ultra-performance C63 AMG model. The C-Class Luxury, on the other hand, reserves the more traditional Mercedes-Benz grille and hood ornament. The Luxury variants are tuned for the smoothest ride comfort while still giving agile handling. Conversely, the Sport models tighten up handling responses while still providing that classic Mercedes-Benz ride.
If you prefer the C-Class Sport, be sure to test drive one with the newly available Dynamic Handling Package. You’ll feel like the car is reading your inputs and the road to adjust suspension damping because, essentially, it is doing just that. The package combines active damping suspension, quicker steering and 18-inch AMG alloy wheels, the sum total being livelier responses without hurting ride quality.
Steering wheel paddleshifters put more control in the driver’s hands, as well as in cars with the seven-speed automatic transmission. The C300 Sport still offers driving enthusiasts a crisp six-speed manual transmission as standard.
In all 2010 C-Class models, the standard Agility Control suspension – a patented Mercedes-Benz technology – adjusts to changes in road conditions, making the car feel smoother over bumps and firmer through corners. The Dynamic Handling Package on Sport models takes that principle to a higher level.
Other new C-Class options for 2010 include a rearview camera, four-way power lumbar adjustment and a universal media interface. The newly available auto-tilting passenger side mirror tilts downward to aid in parking when you shift the transmission into reverse.
Both the Sport and Luxury versions share engines. The C300 is powered by a 228-hp 3.0-liter V6 engine, and the C350 gets a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6. (The C63 AMG from the Mercedes-Benz performance division is the only C-Class to get the AMG-designed-and-built 458-hp V8.) With the C300 models, you can also opt for the all-season traction of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Even if conditions get so slippery that only one wheel has grip, 4MATIC can help get the car going.
Sport and Luxury carry their differences inside as well. The C-Class Luxury models show a more traditional look and feel with a four-spoke steering wheel and burl walnut trim. In the Sport models, a three-spoke steering wheel and aluminum trim (C300) or black bird’s-eye maple (C350) convey a sporty demeanor indeed. You can, however, add a bit more “Luxury” to your “Sport” by choosing burl walnut, which always imparts a classic look.
The C-Class delivers luxury through convenience. A key example is the central controller on the console that lets you access audio and phone functions, which display on a five-inch LCD screen. The optional navigation system with a seven-inch screen allows you to speak or manually enter your destination.
Whether a C-Class is a Sport or Luxury, the luxury that is synonymous with Mercedes-Benz prevails throughout. A power sunroof, eight-way power front seats with lumbar support, automatic climate control and Bluetooth connectivity all are standard, and a two-panel Panorama sunroof is available. A driver’s 10-way memory seat and power-adjustable steering wheel are standard on C350 and available for C300 models.
If there’s one thing that Luxury and Sport drivers can agree on, it’s the pleasure that comes from great music, beautifully played. That’s exactly what they get with the available 450-watt harman/kardon LOGIC7® 12-speaker audio system.
You can trust, as well, that the C-Class embodies the latest in Mercedes-Benz safety thinking. For example, the world’s first pelvic airbags debuted in the 2009 model. These work in conjunction with the curtain and seat-mounted side airbags to provide additional protection for front passengers. The standard Tele-Aid system allows you to summon emergency help, roadside assistance or just information on your car at the touch of a button.
There’s much to discover in the 2010 C-Class offerings from Mercedes-Benz.
