[TouringPleb]

They throw everything they have at the new C class bar the kitchen sink (although probably an option) and Autocar still rate the 3 series better...

[chiark]

I didn't read the review like that at all. To me it sounds like they've stepped up the game and are trying to appeal to someone who wants a more refined ride but one that occasionally can excite...

The chassis, certainly in the case of the car that we drove, feels every bit as good to go with it. There is a delicious fluidity to the way that the new C-class tackles most roads. It feels almost as if the car itself takes one good look at what lies ahead, works out precisely what’s required and then dials up the perfect mix of settings to enable you to sit back and enjoy the ride.

There is, however, a proper level of involvement to the ride and handling at the same time. It’s not quite as overtly driver orientated as a 3-series, perhaps, but in its way the new C-class feels every bit as crisp as the BMW on the move, with a more soothing ride on most surfaces to boot. And, as in the BMW only more so, you can tailor the car’s responses almost endlessly by playing with the new ‘Agility’ button, down where the gear selector might normally be

New 4 pot Merc diesel does seem a bit of a nail though, which surprises me as that'll be their volume seller.

[deeno]

There just not as fun to drive. And the Engines/gearbox are a generation behind still. Love that interior though even though the Nav screen looks like an afterthought.

That ass though, it genuinely is ass...

[M4dski11z]

I'm not surprised... Horrendous looking car!!!

[Waterbelly]

It's official. Hyundai now makes the best looking MB C-class. I actually really liked the previous generation's exterior. This is your grandfather's MB...

[boom77]

[JustChris]

Yes to me, the current BMW design language looks sharp and modern, sporty as always in the right spec.

Mercedes all look to have a melting rear which makes it look fat and heavy.

[teaston]

Originally Posted by Ray335d

I'm not surprised... Horrendous looking car!!!

Not a completely far comparison as that isn't an AMG Line c class, but still that rear end looks like it's made from melting plasticine, and the grill is just a huge chrome mess!

[Proftinkerpot]

It does look like a Chinese knock off of Mercedes-Benz. Absolutely horrendous.

[brommy]

Originally Posted by Ray335d

I'm not surprised... Horrendous looking car!!!

A face only Mutter Benz could love.

[teaston]

The Auto Express review says no UK C Classes will have the chrome grill, just the painted 2 slat ones so will look a bit better!

Also they said the engine was developed by Renault! Might explain the clattery sound of them!

[Walesy]

looks terrible, I just don't get Merc styling at all, the CLA thing is a horror aswell.

[F30AM]

The new C Class with the AMG body kit looks pretty good, just as the M Sport F30 looks better to me than the other F30 types. Yes, Mercedes have thrown everything at this car as it has to last them for a another 7 years. Let's wait and see how it compares with their 6cyl Diesel and Petrol engines. I am sure it will give the F30 a good run for its money. So far, the new C Class has a superb ride (better than the F30), excellent steering (better than the F30), brilliant handling, very low noise levels (apart for the engine) and an interior which is that of the class above. The fight between these two has just begun. As for me, I still prefer the F30 body shape.

[lucbac]

Mercedes are designing for the Chinese customers, hence rounded edges, no sharp lines, and a look similar to other asian brands...

Its their biggest market. I feel they will dilute their brand doing this, but they must have it worked out!

[JOHNBMWM5]

Mercedes are built for Old Men slow to change gear and cheap crap technology IMO.

[Henners]

Originally Posted by JOHNBMWM5

Mercedes are built for Old Men slow to change gear and cheap crap technology IMO.

+ 1

I have a 13 plate CLS shooting brake right now on lease and I hate it, despite the fact that it's a £55k car. Can't wait to get in my £35k 335d next week and be rid of this slow witted tank...

[Walesy]

Originally Posted by JOHNBMWM5

Mercedes are built for Old Men slow to change gear and cheap crap technology IMO.

My mate is an independent Merc mechanic (has his own business) and when I considered one he said to me 'stick with your BM, you will be distraught with the a C Class as they are just cheap shite for premium money'. He drives Volvo's and BMW's.

[NISFAN]

Originally Posted by lucbac

Mercedes are designing for the Chinese customers, hence rounded edges, no sharp lines, and a look similar to other asian brands...

Its their biggest market. I feel they will dilute their brand doing this, but they must have it worked out!

Wrong, western Europe is BMW and MB's biggest market by a long shot.

China is the biggest growth market.

So would be suicidal to design a car for a smaller market segment knowing it would upset your largest sector.

[Pablo68]

Hmm that rear boot lip on that 335i looks nice.

That thing next to it is minging.

[Cootie]

Certainly looks pretty grim in those pictures - I suspect the AMG line and a dark metallic colour will make it look considerably better though.

[chiark]

Bear in mind in the UK we'll get the different face - I think the sport face.

[Pablo68]

Originally Posted by chiark

Bear in mind in the UK we'll get the different face - I think the sport face.

As opposed to the sad face?