New 2014 Mercedes C-class - does the compact executive class have a new leader?

The all-new 2014 Mercedes C-class is the most important model the firm will launch over the next few years. The exec saloon takes styling cues from the S-class, but the real question is can it outperform the BMW 3-series?

The all-new Mercedes-Benz C-class is set to be here for a while, because Mercedes isn't planning on replacing this fifth-generation C-class for another seven years. So, until 2021, this is the C-class, and if ever Mercedes needed to get a car right, and get it right from the word go, this is it.

It's a touch bigger than before, both inside and out, but, crucially, it's also between 70kg and 100kg lighter than the previous model. And it's more aerodynamically efficient, which, in turn, helps it to be more ecologically efficient, too. But is it better to drive? Steve Sutcliffe finds out.

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[Apo_carl_ypse]

Come, on! Why did you test the Blue Tec, if you want a nice sound? 

[bosshunterman]

...So basically, he's shitting on it because it's being TOO WELL equipped??!?

[DanielSadjadian]

Lol he's not happy with the engine? What does he expect? This isn't a C63....

[pancon]

The interior is one of the most beautiful I've seen lately.

[venom]

Putting aside that terrible stick on screen, the interior looks absolutely fantastic, miles better than anyone else and the exterior looks great also. They are going to sell bucket loads of these. 

[burhanjohncena]

Dude you keep talking about complexity like most car buyers are morons. I think people who buy such cars and spend that much money know exactly what they are going into. Also since most of the C-class buyers are young, such technology will not frustrate them as it frustrates you. 

[thelarry]

Too much tech now just means it won't be outdated later. Better for the customer. 

[branot]

You forgot to mention second best thing about this car: AIR SUSPENSION!

[elukok]

One of the first reviews i didn't like.
1. there is nothing like too much tech in a car. You can either not use it or just don't buy that option in the first place.
2. you said almost nothing specific about how the car drives (it drives good is not enough)
3. it's the first car in it's class with air suspension. Please something more about that. How it feels on a bad roads, difference between normal and air suspension...

[amapolishplummer]

I think this is the best compact executive car out there.

It has the best interior, I think it has the best exterior.

Also what got me was 155bhp from a 4 Cylinder Diesel? I think they really stretched out the gearing to give it be big top speed and better fuel economy, probably the reason why the 0-60 time isn't that impressive.

[Haze]

So everything is great except the base 4 cylinder diesel? Autocar viewers are hardly likely to tick that option anyway are they. Looks like we're getting another excellent C.

[juukame]

Aside from the faux ipad being glued to the dash, the interior looks amazing. I love how the center console buttons all lay flush against it but don't protrude out. Also, I love that mercedes still recognizes that buttons are better than touchscreens. Hands down.

[rousseau]

I think the C63 AMG will be brilliant.

[KingAlphaOmega]

Does it have a magic body control feature?

[osamaFXX]

So because its a small Mercedes it shouldn't have any features than a  Polo VW! And if it lacks some features he will start criticizing it for being old fashioned! Some reviewers out there are just stupid and full of nonsense.

[andrewloveandrew]

Does anyone know when the release date of c class amg?

[jamiep]

I like the New Mercedes C-Class as it looks very stylish

[BoraMarkovic]

In the looks departments makes the A4/3 series look dull..

[uprightbassmatt]

No roaring, rattling diesel in a premium car. End of story, pure and simple.
If I buy this Merc or BMW or Audi it will be gasoline, petrol engine for sure.

[ssllhh]

shitting on mercedes for an engine you have choosen, a diesel, the economic version, and you want it to be sporty ! seems legit