A higher Class

THE good news about the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is how radically improved it is. The bad news, especially for current owners of this compact sedan, is how ancient their cars now look. The fourth generation of what was once called the baby Benz now looks less utilitarian and more upmarket. Earlier generations have always mirrored the latest S-Class look but this one is the closest rendition, both in terms of styling and innovations.

The new C-Class looks like a downsized version of the flagship limousine. The exterior styling is curvaceous with harmonious proportions but it is the interior that is groundbreaking. Where the old C-Class had a basic cabin, the new car has the same design language as the S-Class. The flowing lines and moulded forms feature more high-end materials with equally high build quality. Witness the fine panel gaps.

Two new features in the cabin stand out. The first is the touchpad in the controller knob's handrest that recognises input using finger gestures. The second is the head-up display, a first not only for the C-Class but for Mercedes-Benz. The reason the brand with the three-pointed star took so long to embrace HUD is that it was waiting for LED technology to evolve in order to produce the perfect virtual image. The result is crystal clear symbols in vibrant colours with superb contrast.