IF you want traditional Mercedes values of comfort and refinement don't go for the Sport models of the C-Class, which have lowered and stiffened suspension.
The cars fitted with the excellent standard suspension handle just as well, but are noticeably more comfortable.
The 200K estate I've been driving has a supercharged 1.8-litre engine with over 180bhp so there's great performance from almost any speed.
Acceleration through the gears is brilliant - so good that I would wonder whether any of the larger engines in the range can be much of an improvement.
The gearchange feels a little woolly but works well enough and the long travel clutch is light and easy.
Very little noise gets through to the occupants except for the surface of rougher roads and motorway cruising is superb.
The C-Class used to be one of the best for retained value over three years but it has dropped back a little - from 54 per cent a few years ago to 48 per cent now.
Interior
Inside it is svelte and sophisticated. SE trim brings cloth seats with excellent adjustment and the boot is bigger than others in the class.
That said, it does not feel as special as the BMW 3-series, nor does it drive with the same poised and focused perfection.
FAST FACTS
Mercedes C-Class Estate
Price: £25,160
Mechanical: 181bhp, 1,796cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 146mph
0-62mph: 8.8 seconds
Combined mpg: 38
Insurance group: 14
CO2 emissions: 173g/km
BiK rating: 21%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: BMW 3-series