Entry-level model C-Class gets upgrade

The all-new 2008 Mercedes C-Class comes in three trim levels. There are two versions of the C300, which has a 228-horsepower, 3.0-liter, V6 engine: the Sport starting at $31,975 (add $3,240 for the 4Matic all-wheel drive system) and the Comfort starting at $33,675 (add $1,800 for all-wheel drive). The rear-wheel-drive-only C350 Sport, has a more powerful 368-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 and starts at $37,275.

The Sport models come with special shocks, springs, and stabilizer bars that provide a crisper ride. They also have some of the styling of the [tag]AMG[/tag] performance models, such as 17-inch spoked alloy wheels and the characteristic [tag]Mercedes-Benz[/tag] “star” (usually only found on coupes and convertibles) on the front grille. The Comfort version of the car has a conventional four-spoked steering wheel and burl walnut interior trim; the Sport models have a sport steering wheel and either aluminum (in the C300) or dark maple (in the C350) trim.

The most expensive option is the Multimedia package, which includes a navigation system and a 6-CD-player sound system with a 30-gigabyte hard drive. You can even download movies and videos and replay them on the little navigation system screen (though not while driving). A $1,350 Premium II package includes 60/40 fold-down rear seats and intelligent fog lights and [tag]Xenon[/tag] headlamps that light the way around curves and corners.

Filed Under: Mercedes-Benz • Mercedes-Benz C-Class