2006 Mercedes C-Class

What remains in the lineup are the C230 sport sedan, the C280 luxury sedan, the C350 sport and luxury sedans, and a high-performance C55 AMG sedan boasting V-8 power, which Mercedes claims can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. Not coincidentally, now standard are active front head restraints that reduce the likelihood of whiplash injuries.

Also new to the 2006 models is a redesigned V6 engine with more horsepower than previous models. The C230 benefits from a 201-hp, 2.5-liter V-, while the C280 sedan is revamped with a 228-hp, 3.0-liter V-6. The C350 sedans sport a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6, and rounding out the line, the C55 AMG gets a 5.5-liter V-8 that power up to 362 hp at 5,750 rpm.

All models other than the AMG sedan can accommodate a six-speed-manual gearbox or seven-speed automatic with Touch Shift operation. All-wheel-drive sedans offer a five-speed automatic. The six-speed manual transmission in particular offers greatly improved shift action over previous incarnations. All models have standard rear-wheel drive; luxury models offer available 4Matic all-wheel drive.

The 2005 models received revamped clear headlamps and tailamps, and the track was increased by employing wider wheels and tires. The C280 and C350 models use 16-inch wheels, can accommodate C230 sport sedan uses 17-inch wheels, and the C55 AMG sports 18-inch tires.

Worth noting are the body modifications made to the C55 AMG model whereby the front structure – fenders, hood, grille – have been modified to accommodate the V8 engine under the hood. The front track is also wider than in other models. Larger exhaust pipes lend the AMG something of a hot-rod sound and feel.

Inside, the C-class models accommodate five occupants, with attractive aluminum trim in the cabins. The AMG models also offer Nappa leather seating, gearshift buttons on the steering wheel and a special AMG instrument cloister. Mercedes-Benz's Command and Tele Aid systems are available in all models.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes, Mercedes-Benz's Electronic Stability Program, and side-impact and side curtain-type airbags.

Over the last ten years, sales of Mercedes C-Class models have increased some 400%, and with the appearance of the scaled-down C-class models the reasons are even clearer: for the price of a mainstream sedan, you can get Mercedes quality, handling and luxury.