Mercedes-Benz C250 2011 Review

It took them long enough — decades infact before Mercedes-Benz decided to produce a C-Class Coupe to fit in under CLK and compete with the hugely popular BMW 3-Series Coupe

UNDERPINNINGS

The Benz Coupe builds on C-Class sedan sharing the same powertrains and underpinnings, sometimes slightly changed or modified to suit the two door's sportier nature. In its quest to deliver a sporty coupe, Benz didn't take its eye off safety or environmental concerns.

EQUIPMENT

It has equipped the svelte newcomer with no fewer than eleven air bags backing a veritable arsenal of primary and secondary safety equipment. Helping the planet is auto stop/start and Bluefficiency technology across the entire range to cut emissions and fuel consumption.

All but the entry level C180 score a glass roof with integrated sunroof, numerous driver assist aids and a rear view camera. Option packages will boost Lane Tracking or Driver Assist but neither is really necessary such is the level of standard equipment.

STYLE

The car cuts a fine profile and looks handsome from every angle sharing the assertive nose from the new CLS and an arcing roofline together with a wedge-shaped side profile and big doors. Is it as good looking as the BMW? Unequivocally yes it is.

DRIVING

We drove the C250CDi — turbodiesel with a 2.1-litre four cylinder engine good for 150kW/500Nm — seen on numerous other Benz models. In this guise, it's good for 5.1-litres/100km fuel economy and sporty performance capable of clocking a 0-100kmh sprint in 7.0 seconds. But roll-on acceleration is the real story — read strong — V8 strong.

This engine is a gem, a little noisy at times but with all that grunt and such a frugal thirst who's not going to love it. The seven-speed auto transmission capably harnesses engine output, adds its own flavour and a paddle shift function to go with auto stop/start.

HOW MUCH

The price is $69,990 but the good thing is you don't have to pay Luxury Car Tax because the 250CDi comes in under the 7.0-litres/100km tax plimsol line. Sweet.

VERDICT

It's a superb thing to drive, sporty, punchy, stable, safe, controlled and luxurious. Safety is of the highest order and there's room inside for four plus a large boot.