The C240 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. And the C240 is not a bad vehicle, despite its near-the-back showing here. It has a high-quality interior and a comfortable, quiet ride, which used to be all that was expected from an entry-lux sedan. But the standards are higher now. The C240's 2.6-liter, 168 horsepower V6 is notably weak, and competitors with better interior packaging have made a cramped rear seat the exception rather than the rule in this class. And while the C240 isn't as overpriced as some Mercedes-Benzes, it certainly is not a very impressive value, especially when compared principally to competitors with similar size and power.

       The C240 has a surprisingly soft, absorbent, and very comfortable ride. Even more surprisingly, this has a negligible effect on the car's handling. Body roll could be better-suppressed, but the car still feels agile enough overall. Despite recent improvements to the car's steering, it still feels less precise than some competitors, and is a bit too light. The 2.6-liter V6 is unfit for inclusion in a vehicle in this price range, and would not even be an upgrade over virtually any family sedan's 6-cylinder. While very slow, it is at least reasonably smooth and quiet. Wind and road noises are rarely heard either. Fuel economy is poor, especially considering the engine's low power figures.

       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. This 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 C240 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.

       Overall, the C240 is not a bad car, but it lacks the strong points necessary to justify its high price, cramped interior, and pathetic acceleration. If you truly want a C-Class, consider choosing the same-priced C230 model, which is less refined and has a stiffer ride, but is otherwise superior, or paying extra for the C320 model, which is both quicker and more luxurious. But all are overpriced, and offer no especially compelling features aside from the Mercedes badge. Look elsewhere.

Pros:

-Ride Comfort

-Refinement

-Interior Quality

-Safety Ratings

Cons:

-Acceleration

-Features for the Money

-Rear Seat Room

-Trunk Space

-Fuel Economy

Overall:

An adequate vehicle overall, but not worthy of its price.

Version Reviewed:

NA

Price of Version Reviewed:

$32,662

Powertrain:

2.6-liter V6