The C230 is part of the Mercedes C-Class lineup that was last redesigned in 2001, and recently benefited from a freshening that included improved steering response, interior quality, and ergonomics. The other member of this lineup that fell within the price range for this comparison, the V6-powered C240, placed 23rd here, falling behind for its poor acceleration, and letting the C230 pull further ahead for its nimbler handling, greatly improved fuel economy (a difference of six miles per gallon), benefits that overshadowed its stiffer and slightly noisier ride. But the cars share common flaws of a cramped interior and a high price, and the C230 does not really stand out in any meaningful way either.

       The sport-oriented C230 lacks the comfortable ride found in the C240. It's much stiffer here, though very well controlled, but road imperfections are not filtered out well. This version's sport suspension does help solve the C240's body roll problems, the car still isn't as fun to drive as some competitors, though it's quite agile overall. Part of the problem lies in the steering, both C-Class models suffer from a lack of precision and too-light steering feel. The C230's supercharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder is much quicker than the C240's V6, but still provides mediocre acceleration for this class, and isn't as smooth or quiet. Wind and road noises are close to inaudible, a positive trait shared with the C240. The C230 gets best-in-group gas mileage.

       Inside, the front seats are well-shaped, but a bit low and firm. Headroom is a bit lacking, even without the optional sunroof. The rear seat is reasonably well-shaped, but it lacks legroom and headroom. A 2005 update brought greatly improved interior materials, all now feel suitable for the price, and all trim pieces fit together very well. The C230 had aluminum dash and door inserts replacing the C240's wood trim, intended to emphasize the car's sportier character. The 2005 update also brought a revision to the instruments and gauges, and another substantial improvement. However, the gauges could still be larger, and some instruments remain confusing and require the use of many small buttons. Drivers sit comfortably, but don't have an optimal rearward view. Small doors and cramped footwells lead to difficult entry/exit, especially to the rear seat. The trunk is small, though well-shaped.

       The C-Class did very well in crash testing, earning a Best Pick rating in the IIHS offset crash test, and an Acceptable rating in the IIHS side crash test. It also earned four stars for both the driver and for the front passenger in the NHTSA side crash test, and five stars for both the driver and for the rear passenger in the NHTSA side crash test.

      The C230 reviewed here is no bargain. Leather, seat heaters, and even power seat adjustments came as optional equipment, bloating the vehicle's price tag, and the tested car lacked a sunroof and other expected features in this price range. Curtain airbags, as well as torso airbags for both the front and rear are welcome standard equipment at least, as are traction and stability control. This pricing and equipment is virtually identical to the C240's.

      Overall, the C230 is sporty where the C240 is luxurious, and a combination of factors brought it out ahead overall. But neither is a great car, as both have a high price, a cramped interior, and mediocre or worse acceleration, and the C230 adds a stiff ride to that list. There are better choices.

Pros:

-Agility

-Interior Quality

-Safety Ratings

Cons:

-Features for the Money

-Acceleration

-Rear Seat Room

-Trunk Space

Overall:

While it's better overall than the C240, that's still no great achievement.

Version Reviewed:

NA

Price of Version Reviewed:

$32,793

Powertrain:

1.8-liter I4