by J.T. Hills

SGN Contributing Writer

Top

• All-wheel-drive handling
• Optional panoramic sunroof
• Fuel-efficient 3.0-liter 228hp V-6

Bottom

• Competitive base price, popular options add up quickly
• Bluetooth is overly complicated to connect to

The C-Class is Mercedes Benz's entry-level sedan. Completely redesigned for 2008, the C-Class is offered in three trim levels: Luxury, Sport, and AMG-inspired Sport. The C-Class was first introduced in 1993 as a 1994 model to replace the 190 Sedan. For the 2009 model year, Mercedes Benz optional upgrades include available integrated compass in the rear-view mirror and optional navigation system with a larger 40-gigabyte hard drive with more space reserved for music and Zagat Restaurant Survey. A total of eight airbags are standard including new pelvic airbags for front-seat occupants. After spending a week with the 2009 GMC Sierra 4WD Hybrid Crew Cab I've assimilated, corrugated, encapsulated, conjugated, and insinuated my own observations. Here they are:

The Mercedes Benz C300 4MATIC

I happen to be on the tall side, and when you're over six feet tall, finding a car that fits you is a real problem. Compact and mid-size cars just don't seem to fit. What I love about German cars - and Mercedes Benz in particular - is that you don't have to buy a full-size sedan to get a car that you can actually be comfortable in.

The entry-level Mercedes Benz C300 4MATIC comes with a 228-hp 3.0-liter dual overhead cam 24-valve V6 with 221 lb-ft of torque @ 2,700-5,000 rpms, and is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. The C300 has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway - not bad for an all-wheel-drive sedan. The test car came with the optional Sport Package which includes a body styling kit, 17 wheels, and sport-tuned suspension. The bigger wheels and suspension can provide for a stiffer, harsher ride, especially noticeable on Seattle's potholed streets, but the stiffer ride is well worth it when it comes to handling out on the interstate.

The interior of the C300 was typical German minimalism, though for an entry-level sedan, it didn't lack in the luxury department. Again, I loved how much room there was up front, although I did feel sorry for anyone who had to sit behind me. Trunk space in the C300 also seemed spacious for a car of its size. I also really loved the new available panoramic sunroof, and the power retractable 7 color display. Connecting your mobile phone to the Bluetooth system seemed to be a bit harder than it should be, though. There was little not to like about the C300 4MATIC. You can definitely pick and choose how much or how little luxury you want - just be prepared to pay for it.

Okay, for an MSRP of $46,710, what do you get?

The 2009 Mercedes Benz C300 4MATIC comes well equipped with a base MSRP of $35,400, as well it should. Popular luxury option add up quickly. Here's a look at some of my favorites:

Technical Features:

• 228-hp 3.0-liter dual overhead cam 24V V6
• Seven-speed automatic transmission
• Front suspension: Three-link independent strut-type with stabilizer bar
• Rear suspension: Multi-link independent with stabilizer bar
• Dual exhaust with two chrome outlets
• 4Matic all-wheel-drive system

Safety Features

• Dual stage front airbags
• Side airbags mounted in front-seat backrests
• Head protection curtain
• Dual front pelvic airbag
• Four-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist system
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
• Smart key with panic button
• Tire pressure monitoring system

Comfort and Convenience

• Power sunroof
• Dual-zone climate control
• Single disc CD/MP3/AM/FM Weatherband radio
• Eight-speaker sound system
• Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone use
• Central controller with 5 display
• Leather multi-function steering wheel
• Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting
• Trip computer

Optional Features

• Black leather ($1,570)
• iPod integration kit ($375)
• Tele Aid ($650)
• Panorama sunroof ($1,050)
• Burl walnut wood trim ($310)
• Premium II package: SIRIUS satellite radio, heated front seats, Bi-Xenon headlamps with headlamp washers and cornering fog lamps, split-folding rear seats, garage door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, rain sensing wipers, power rear-window sunshade, 10-way power driver's seat with memory and power-adjusting steering column ($3,500)
• Multi-media package: 7 power retractable color display, COMAND hard-drive based Navigation System, six-disc CD/DVD changer, Harman/Kardon LOGIG discrete multi-channel surround system, voice control, music register, PCMCIA slot ($2,980)
• Sport Sedan: Sport body styling, Mercedes Benz star in grille, 17 staggered-width alloy wheels with all-season tires, sport suspension and braking system, sport interior, aluminum trim (N/C)

· Destination and delivery ($875)