The C-Class may be fast and practical, but several judges had nervous moments towing above 60mph, as data from the Al-Ko ATC sensors showed. It wasn’t as secure at high speeds as we’ve come to expect of a Mercedes-Benz.
Like its big brother, the E-Class, the C350 CDI struggled with the emergency lane-change, too. It was more impressive stopping from 30mph in just 11.1 metres, though. And with 457lb ft of torque, it took a mere 8.4 seconds to go from 30-60mph.
The footbrake needed a really hard shove before it would stop car and caravan from rolling backwards on the test hill, but once under way, the Merc pulled effortlessly to the top of the slope.
Without a van to tow, the C-Class feels exceptionally quick, but it should still achieve 47.1mpg, according to official figures. Sport versions like our test car have a firm suspension to give composed cornering. However, the ride is too stiff, especially around town. Our practicality testers couldn’t find room for all the luggage, which is disappointing for an estate car.
