The new C-class range will be noted as a watershed model in Mercedes-Benz history and the entry level C-180, although not the best, is the most improved and the most surprising value for money. Superbly designed and engineered it offers a full complement of safety and convenience features, a remarkable ride and handling set up and competent if not dazzling performance.
mercedes benz c180 classic
The allure of owning a new Mercedes Benz means the bulk of sales are for entry-level versions of the mainstay C-class range. Unfortunately, while these models have traditionally looked the part, modest equipment levels, wheezy-1.8 litre engines and a history of lethargic accelerator response have caused significant disappointment. Times change, and the all-new and highly acclaimed 2000 C-class will be noted not only as one of the best examples of the marque, but for the significant improvement of the most affordable Merc.
pricing and equipment
This eagerly awaited C-class range is offered in four versions, C180, C200-Kompressor, C240, and C320, each with three equipment levels: Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde. A four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine is fitted to both the C180 and C200, the latter gaining the advantage of a belt-driven supercharger to lift power and torque figures to 120kW and 230Nm over the standard 95kW and 185Nm. C240 comes with a 2.6-litre V6 producing 125kW and 240Nm, while the flagship 3.2-litre V6 delivers 160kW and 31 Nm. Both four-cylinder models can be optioned with the six-speed manual gearbox, although it is unlikely many Mercedes buyers will give up the exceptionally smooth five-speed auto. V6 models are auto only.
An entry-level Classic displays the typically understated Mercedes approach, clean style and perfect function. Equipment level is nevertheless impressive, particularly in the range of safety features. The Elegance lives up to its name with more luxury appointments, chrome trim strips, alloy wheels and leather steering wheel, while Avantgarde versions display the most dynamic side, with blue tinted glass, textured aluminium interior trim and 16-inch alloy wheels.
At $54,900, the automatic C180 is a steal, while the six-speed manual for $3000 less will tempt the enthusiast. What is important is a fundamental change in the base car's character and appeal. Sharper steering, superb suspension control and a stronger, more responsive engine make this compact Mercedes a delight to drive. Although designated as C-180, this engine is in fact a four-valves-per-cylinder 2.0-litre, which produces respectable mid-range torque and delivers a comfortable cruising manner. Power figures and recorded acceleration times do not make exciting reading, and the new car is 100kg heavier, yet there is a newfound responsiveness off the line and improved flexibility in traffic.
on the road
Mercedes has ditched the long travel and frighteningly delayed accelerator action as well as opting for a faster-responding (adaptive) automatic transmission. Despite the occasional flair of engine revs with a hasty kick-down, the auto generally responds quickly and smoothly for drivers who have a flowing style in traffic. The adaptive auto will hold a lower gear longer during long climbs even as the accelerator is released, while the one-touch shift lever (first introduced in the 1998 S-class) provides the option of instant manual selection. Simply tapping the shift lever away from or towards the driver will allow full manual control of gear selection. It works surprisingly well.
Given the superb dynamic qualities of the C180, the six-speed manual transmission is now a much more attractive option for enthusiasts. Over 800km of testing, we recorded a respectable fuel consumption of 10.5 l/100km, thirstier than most lighter 2.0-litre sedans and ranging from 9-12 l/100km between highway and city running.
There are a number of significant changes to the components used in the C-class ride and handling package. Notably, Mercedes for the first time has switched to a three-link McPherson Strut front suspension and rack and pinion steering. At the rear is the Mercedes-patented multi-link independent suspension axle, which remains unsurpassed in many respects. With the wheelbase increased by 25mm, front track width 6mm and rear 12mm, the result is a mid-size car with the ride of a larger limousine yet with the crisp steering response to match its sporting sedan rivals.
Our C180 remained comfortable and composed over a variety of notoriously poor back roads, as well as demonstrating fingertip turn in accuracy and remarkable balance over twisting mountain roads. Larger brake rotors all round, brake assist to automatically achieve maximum brake pressure and an electronic stability program (ESP) to limit skidding on loose or wet roads, add to the dynamic competence. These attributes position the C-class ride and handling among the best mid-size cars in the world. If that's not enough, a sports suspension kit is optional on all models.
interior and safety
Cabin design and interior presentation also generated many favourable comments. For a mid-size car, the C-class not only looks like a smaller version of the top-of-the-range S-class but offers a surprising amount of space and practicality. Virtually every interior measurement has been improved over the outgoing model, and with ample head, shoulder and leg room, it is particularly comfortable for four adults. The interior offers a pleasing blend of elegant form, which is less claustrophobic than many previous models and boasts essential practicality right down to the large storage bins and glove box.
Drivers will note the superb ergonomic layout of all controls and switches, the tailored comfort of the height-adjustable seat, height and reach-adjustable steering containing common control switches and the ease of entry and exit with features such as automatic steering wheel tilt. Typical of the Mercedes-Benz philosophy are the clever design features and engineering which are not obvious: cabin climate memory stored in individual ignition keys, a single air recirculation switch that closes all windows and sunroof on entering tunnels or underground car parks, and speedtronic that locks in a chosen maximum speed. Boot load space is equally accommodating in both space and clean design.
For Mercedes, safety remains paramount and even the base C-class features a swag of advanced secondary safety features in addition to the excellent dynamic safety. A new impact-absorbing �crash box' at the front is designed to be replaced at low cost after a minor collision. There is an ellipsoid firewall to optimise occupant protection, seatbelt force limiters and tensioners front and rear, adaptive (two-stage) dual front airbags, side airbags front and rear, plus window bags that extend like a curtain from the A to C pillars to reduce head injury. Owners also have the option of an integrated child safety seat. Once again there are many less obvious features, such as darkness-activated headlights and rain-sensing wipers.
Adding to the exceptional value for money of the C180 is the comprehensive standard equipment list, but be wary of pricy options. There's a reassuring three-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and no startling surprises in our basket of common replacement items.
the verdict
The new C-class range will be noted as a watershed model in Mercedes-Benz history and the entry-level C180, although not the best, is the most improved and the most surprising value for money. Superbly designed and engineered, it offers a full complement of safety and convenience features, a remarkable ride and handling set-up and competent if not dazzling performance.
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