Mercedes-Benz C230 Elegance - page 2

06-10-2007 14:19

Then it’s time to hit the road and as the C-Class 230 sprints away from 0-62 in just 8.5 seconds, it does not take long to reach the open plains whereby you will then experience the amazing technology that this car has been fortunate to be blessed with. The seven speed automatic gearbox will take all the stress of driving away as you pass petrol stations knowing it will be a long time till you have to re-fuel as the 230 claims 31 mpg on a combined cycle with emissions a respectable 217 for this V6 engine. The ride and handling is exquisite and this C-class is simply an utterly pleasurable experience. Of coarse, having Agility Control Suspension does help giving the driver the best of both, a comfortable ride plus agile handling, while the Agility Control Steering is 6% more direct than its predecessor making this C230 a very obedient car to steer.

It is also incredibly safe having a body shell of which 70% consists of high strength and ultra high steel, seven airbags, height adjustable belt tensioners and belt force limiters. The head restraints operate on the NECKPRO principle and get pushed forward and upwards in the event of a rear end shunt that significantly reduces the risk of whiplash. Then there is PRESAFE that activates ESP and Brake Assist if needed, ABS, Acceleration Skid Control, Rear brake lights that flash if you need to brake harshly at speeds over 30mph thus instantly warning the driver behind something is happening, Intelligent Light System where by the powerful bi-xenon headlamps automatically adapt to driving conditions, automatic dimming rear view mirror and drivers door mirror, plus rain sensing wipers.

Securing this beloved machine is remote central locking, an alarm and immobiliser; hence falls into insurance group 15E.

The C-Class has been Mercedes’ bestseller in the passenger car range to date so to improve such a vehicle takes some doing. But they have with the lovely new looks, sumptuous interior with every conceivable feature a driver needs on board. The C 230 delivers a superior ride and handling and thanks to the numerous safety innovations, many a first, the C230 is so utterly dependable and safe. I guess you are no doubt thinking this must cost a fortune. But no, the ace up the C-Class’s sleeve is that prices start from £22,937 for the C180 Kompressor rising to £ 35,577 for the C 350 Sport meaning my test car fell in at £ 27, 577. However, with the optional extras such as parking sensors, telephone hands free, 7- speed automatic gearbox, integrated CD changer with MP3, heated front seats, leather upholstery and metallic paint, did kind of pushed the price tag up to £32, 152.

But still, is that value for money or what?

FemaleFirst Jackie Violet