The Mercedes-Benz C-Class underwent a large-scale redesign in 2008 and, as such, receives very few updates for the new model year. This luxury vehicle is available in four different flavors; the C300 Luxury, C300 Sport, C350 Sport and the C63 AMG are available from Mercedes-Benz. The C300 Luxury and C300 Sport share a 3.0-liter V6, which produces 228 hp, while the C350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 putting out 268 hp. The C63 AMG is designed for ultra high-performance and offers a 6.2-liter V8, producing 451 hp. Only the C300 series is available with a manual or automatic transmission; all other models make use of a 7-speed automatic transmission.
All Mercedes-Benz C-Class vehicles come with rear-wheel drive standard, though the C300 series is available with all-wheel drive, courtesy of Mercedes' 4Matic system. Sport models make use of a specialized suspension, tuned and constructed specifically for the purpose, while C300's in a rear-wheel drive configuration can use Ethanol E85. Add-ons for the class include a navigation system, an in-car hard drive for music storage, upgraded headlights and several other options.
2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Performance
The base C300 model provides more than sufficient power for use around town, as well as for highway driving, though it is a bit slow on acceleration. A better choice is the C350, which provides much better get up and go. Of course, the C63 AMG is the most powerful option in the class. Manual shifting is a bit slow on all models equipped with it, though the 7-speed automatic is slick and sure.
For fuel consumption, the C-Class falls a bit short of the mark, though it is far from the worst in its class. The base C300 only averages 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, though the all-wheel drive configuration increases fuel mileage by a bit. Of course, the high-performance model receives even lower scores across the board.
If you want excellent ride quality, look no further than the 2009 C-Class. You'll find that the vehicles are poised and certain on all road surfaces and provide plenty of absorption for bumps and rough roads. Sport models communicate road imperfections a bit more, though even here it is not obtrusive. Steering is also a high point of the C-Class, with all vehicles scoring quite well. The steering does not provide as much road feel as you might like, but all vehicles are quite responsive. Body lean is very limited, as well.
For quietness, the C-Class gets moderate scores. Wind noise is noticeable at highway speeds, while road noise can be obtrusive over rough pavement. Engine noise is actually a nice counterpoint and is almost unnoticed at idle.
2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Interior
The interior of the C-Class does not disappoint. Filled with nicely padded surfaces and rich textures, the interior of the models is sure to please anyone. In addition, all gauges are large, clear, easy to read and located properly. The addition of the navigation system complicates the audio system tremendously, though even without the addition of the navigation system, audio controls are difficult to handle.
The front seats are more than comfortable, offering tremendous support and space. Even large drivers and passengers will have plenty of room in the front. Visibility to the rear is excellent and unobstructed by C-pillars or headrests. The rear seats are also comfortable and provide plenty of headroom. Legroom and foot space are a bit cramped, though.
Cargo space on the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is excellent. While the trunk is a bit narrow, it is quite deep and more than useful. The hinges do not intrude into usable space and the folding rear seats can increase trunk space by a considerable amount. Interior storage is a bit lacking. The glove box and a small center console are the only concessions to interior storage, other than two cup holders.
2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Safety Equipment
As you would expect from a company like Mercedes-Benz, the C-Class offers plenty of safety equipment. You will find dual airbags, an antiskid system, a tire pressure monitor, daytime running lights, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, active front head restraints, side curtain airbags and front side airbags.
Summary
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an excellent choice for those seeking to enter the luxury car market. These vehicles provide excellent power and performance, as well as the interior quality and space that you need and expect. Combined with Mercedes' commitment to excellent engineering and quality, the benefits of these vehicles are quite apparent.