About this Vehicle
Trim: 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 Luxury
MSRP: $33,990 Engine: 3L V6 Transmission: Automatic | Drivetrain: RWD Fuel Type: Gas Curb Weight: lbs. |
Review
The 2011 Mercedes C-Class collection is opening to rave reviews. Blending power and refinement with impressive safety features, the C-Class carries on the Benz tradition of excellence. Its four new models offer something for everyone. Reviewed here are the C63 AMG sports car, the C300 luxury sedan, and two sport sedans – the manual C300 and the automatic C350. Starting MSRPs are $33,990 – $58,200.
A range of six vehicles, the Mercedes C-Class has had mixed levels of success over the last several years based on the variant. The C230 Kompressor Sports Coupe, designed to be a more “entry-level” variant has failed miserably in sales, while the top of the line C32 AMG trim does spectacularly well in sales and in all auto reviews that take it on.
Performance
Engine size for the 2011 C-Class is expected to be little changed from its 2010 models which varied wildly from the 1.8-liter supercharged DOHC I-4 at 189 horsepower to the legendary AMG which had a 3.2-liter supercharged V-6 that crank out 349 horsepower. The precise handling and performance both on the streets and on the highways and back mountain roads is legendary for the C-Class thanks to the multilink rear suspension and 3-link front suspension.
Rumors of a hybrid for 2011 are substantial and, if proven true, probably a good move for Mercedes-Benz in the C-Class to attract the more environmental-conscious drivers out there who want a little more out of their car than the Toyota Prius has to offer.
AMG Features
How is the sporty C63 AMG different? While some high-performance vehicles are souped-up versions of standard cars, the C63 was actually designed from the bottom up for top performance. This model features rear wheel drive and a supercharged 6.3 liter, AMG-built V8 engine with 451 HP @ 6100 rpm. Even at its peak, the car handles like a dream thanks to superior suspension in the front and rear. This superior machine has décor to match with options including stitched leather seating, walnut trim, and stainless steel foot pedals. Special safety features include eight airbags and an ESP collision avoidance system. The starting MSRP is $58,200.
Sedan Features
The C300 luxury sedan boasts top-class appointments including a power sunroof with panoramic view, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and hardwood trim. The sedan has a seven-speed automatic transmission with rear wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. Under the hood, the powerful engine reaches 228 HP at 6000 rpm, letting the vehicle move from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. Agility control is excellent; the C300 has independent 3-link front suspension, independent 5-link rear suspension, and automatic damping at each wheel as needed. Smart safety features include remote control keys, night security illumination, an antitheft alarm, and airbags that can be optimized for different passengers’ weights. The starting MSRP is $35,900.
Test Drive Overview
The 2011 C-Class series features two sports sedans, the manual C300 and the automatic C350. Both have rear wheel drive. They’ve retained the engines of their 2010 analogues: the C300 has a 3.0 liter 228 horsepower V6 engine, and the C350 has a 268 HP V6. With multi-link sport suspension, these sedans take even the legendary handling of Mercedes-Benz to a new level. New features include daytime LED lights, standard 17” 5-spoke wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, and a power roof. Special touches include an iPod interface, voice control, optional leather upholstery, and ingenious rain-sensing wipers. Drivers also get Sirius radio with more than 130 commercial-free stations. As for safety, 11-way airbag protection, an illuminated entry system, and a rear view camera help protect passengers and people behind the vehicle. The MSRP for a standard model is $33,990.
Interior Features
The inside of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class features stunning, hand-stitched leather with laurel wood trim tastefully surrounding the well-designed and accessible controls. Dual-zone climate control allows for both driver and passenger to select their own comfort level and there are even vents for the rear seat passengers. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is multifunction allowing the driver to adjust more than 50 settings in the car including the lighting, stereo system, cruise control, phone and other vehicle settings with the touch of a button.
Safety & Specifications
Safety features for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class will not diminish from their hard-earned reputation in 2011. The traction and stability control, brake assist with antilock disc brakes, ESP collision avoidance system, eight airbags and specialized seatbelt with pre-tensioning retractors are all standard features you can expect to find to help keep you and your family safe and also keep your car insurance rates lower (although online car insurance may further lower rates).
Conclusion: What to Expect from the 2011 Mercedes C-Class
As a standard-bearer for the Mercedes-Benz lineup of cars, the C-Class has never failed to disappoint in overview. A full complement of standard features and security and quality are further complimented by the army of upgrade options that are available for a price. Are these cars worth their sticker prices? While the new AMG is a bit fuel-hungry, any car in the C-Class offers its owner a daily pleasure cruise. Once again, powerful Daimler and AMG engines, attention to safety, and little luxuries take Mercedes a long way.
No comments:
Post a Comment