Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2014 Review
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is not only the top-selling luxury car in Australia ahead of the equivalently sized Audi and BMW; it's also more popular than much cheaper rivals.
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We turn the spotlight on the BMW 435i and ask the big questions, including the most important: would you buy one?
What is it?
This is the handsome coupe version of BMW's top selling 3 Series sedan, in this case, the-top-of-the range turbo six-cylinder. Has its own face, is wider, longer lower than sedan.
How much?
It goes for $108,500 but you can get into a 4-Series for around 70 grand. It misses out on favourable Luxury Car Tax breaks because it is over the fuel economy threshold by a smidge.
What are competitors?
The Benz E-Coupe range is number one, Audi A5 coupe, possibly Nissan's 370Z coupe, Volvo C70 (hard top convertible).
What's under the bonnet?
435i gets a version of the impressive 3.0-litre petrol straight six cylinder with a swag of high-tech enhancements including variable valve lift and variable valve timing on the inlet and exhaust sides for efficiency gains, a twin-scroll turbo, direct fuel injection and other clever stuff. Power goes to the rear wheels through a slick eight-speed conventional auto transmission with paddle shift and multi modes.
How does it go?
Whoosh! Goes like the clappers putting away a 0-100km/h sprint in 5.1 seconds. Cruises unobtrusively and in total comfort aided by Driver Experience Control that allows the driver to choose between Eco, Comfort, Sport and Sport + modes that alter various dynamic and powertrain settings.
Is it economical?
At allegedly 7.4 litres/100km yes but that's not good enough to dodge a percentage of LCT which requires 7.0 or better. It needs premium unleaded to perform best.
Is it green?
Yes rated at 4.5 out of 5.
Is it safe?
Five stars and an extensive range of active and passive equipment.
Is it comfortable?
Leather clad fully electrically adjustable front seats, top-end Harman Kardon audio, Bluetooth phone and audio, park distance control, cruise control with brake function, plenty of driver assist equipment, seat belt presenters, internet connectivity, premium satnav, bi-xenon headlights and LEDs everywhere, keyless start. Yes. it's comfortable unless your over 180cm in the back seat.
What's it like to drive?
The 435i is a fabulous drive, totally engaging, comfortable, responsive, sounds awesome when you can hear it. The steering is a revelation especially at low speeds. Tight turning circle, dial up dynamics. The engine sings sweetly and gets going hard straight off idle. You can treat the 435i like a sports car or a luxury cruiser, even a daily commuter car covers all bases and has a decent boot (expandable with 60:40 folding rear seats).
Is it value for money?
Comparable with the competition. Would be good to get fuel consumption below 7.0 to save a few grand on the price.
Would we buy one?
In a blink.
Vehicle | Specs | Price* | |
---|---|---|---|
420d Luxury Line | 2.0L, Diesel, 8 SP AUTO | $19,140 – 24,200 | 2014 BMW 4 Series 2014 420d Luxury Line Pricing and Specs |
435i | 3.0L, PULP, 6 SP MAN | $38,060 – 44,770 | 2014 BMW 4 Series 2014 435i Pricing and Specs |
435i | 3.0L, PULP, 8 SP AUTO | $32,340 – 38,500 | 2014 BMW 4 Series 2014 435i Pricing and Specs |
420i Sport Line | 2.0L, PULP, 8 SP AUTO | $20,240 – 25,630 | 2014 BMW 4 Series 2014 420i Sport Line Pricing and Specs |
$17,950
Lowest price, based on 21 car listings in the last 6 months