2009 Mercedes-Benz C280 Reviews

Mercedes-Benz built an enviable reputation based on safe, solid, comfortable and reliable prestige cars, but in recent times it has had to add another element to its appeal: excitement.

Choosing the right car can open the door to the executive floor, or confirm your corner office and that overdue promotion to the big league. Just as the right suit, tie, shoes or watch send a message to management, so does the right car.Working on the basis that you should always dress for the job you want, not the one you have, there are some impressive buys around in the prestige class. And, better than anything, a smart second-hand purchase is a great way to reward yourself.You still need to think about the obvious stuff -- maintenance and repair costs, insurance, fuel economy and resale value -- but driving a tasty import doesn't have to mean a second mortgage. Buying near-new, with just a couple of years on the clock, can open the doors to some impressive cars.Here are three that tick the boxes for the Carsguide undercover crew:(Search for hundreds more choices)HOT TIPSIf out of warranty use a brand specialist mechanic. If you can find a manual you're sure to save even more. Prestige cars cost to maintain so budget for this.2009 BMW 323iEngine: 2.5-litre 6-cyl petrolTransmission: 6-speed autoThirst: 8.8L/100CARSGUIDE SAYSA BMW badge is enough for many people and it needn't break the bank. The upmarket E90-model 3 Series sedan has balanced and subtly arresting style. The 323i (or the E92 325i if you spend $50K) gets a six-cylinder engine and earns more street cred than the four-cylinder 318i and 320i. It's not cheap to own or run, but the 323i still has lots going for it. It has room for four adults, is an exhilarating drive with solid handling, and even the fuel use isn't too bad. A thorough service history is mandatory and new owners are expected to continue this trend.2009 Lexus IS250 PrestigeEngine: 2.5-litre 6-cyl petrolTransmission: 6-speed automaticThirst: 9.7L/100CARSGUIDE SAYSAn underestimated car that's perfect for first-time executive buyers. This particular example is the desirable 2009 upgrade model and gets extra kit such as the heated and cooled front seats and satnav. The IS is similar in size to a 3 Series but more focused on comfort and equipment than performance or rip-roaring cornering. Lexus builds beautiful cars and owners report very good customer service.2009 Mercedes-Benz C280 AvantgardeEngine: 3.0-litre 6-cyl petrolTransmission: 7-speed automaticThirst: 9.4L/100CARSGUIDE SAYSThis C-Class variant is a cut above the 1.8-litre petrol and 2.1-litre diesel models that sold best in 2008-10. Its 3.0 V6 gives punchy performance, at the cost of a greater thirst, as well as a distinctive exhaust note. There is commendable safety and reasonable equipment, although it's not a match for the Lexus.

That is not to say that Mercedes doesn't get it wrong occasionally - its dalliance with R-Class, is one example - but such is not the case with the new C-Class.This may be the Mercedes version of the “people's car” but this time around it has not shirked at all.The styling is sharp, the 3.0-litre 170kW V6 is both strong and smooth and the seven-speed auto appears eminently happy to be associated with it. The C-Class, in its Avantgarde guise, is stylishly fitted out with superb seats and a seriously rich feel to the general trim.Ride comfort is excellent, the suspension is compliant and offers a good balance between highway cruising and backroad bruising.Steering feel - for a Mercedes - is quite good with a nice progressive weighting. SnapshotMERCEDES-BENZ C280Price: $84,974Engine: 3.0L/V6, 170kW/300NmTransmission: 7-speed automaticEconomy: 9.6L/100km For all the latest on the carsguide Car Of The Year each week go to www.carsguide.com.au/caroftheyear