Mercedes-Benz C-Class C250 2014 Review

The assault continues. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan launched the prestige vanguard against the mainstream mid-sized ranks and now the wagon is wheeled into the attack.

Starting at $63,400 for the C200 petrol model and capping out - for now - at $72,900 for the C250 Bluetec diesel, the wagons are a volume-boosting equation at $2500 more than the comparable sedans. There's not much trade-off in the looks department, either. The nose is identical and the rear - often the flabby point on estates - is boosted by a chrome strip that helps offset the depth of the plastic.

With similar load space, better handling and lither looks, the C-Class wagons mount an ample argument against SUVs. That won't stop people buying ML wagons but it should give them cause to reconsider. The forward section of the cabin is a visual and tactile reminder this is a premium car. The switchgear clicks and flicks with precision and the materials look and feel plush.

Driving position and feel of the leather-wrapped steering wheel are spot-on and the standard features list embarrasses mid-sized rivals, mainstream or premium. Default hardware includes LED headlamps, front and rear parking sensors, seven-inch infotainment screen, reversing camera, DAB radio, 18-inch alloy wheels and leather-like upholstery.

Software ranges from satnav to Collision Prevention Assist Plus, which is a long name for a shorter stopping distance - automated if necessary - if a crash is imminent.

There's also the indulgence of a five-mode Agility Select driving setup. This changes the steering, accelerator and transmission response - and with them the fuel economy of the vehicle - from light to heavy. The Individual setting is the one to go for, enabling each component to be tailored to the driver's preference.

Option packages range from AMG-Line (adding bling and lower, sportier suspension and steering for $2685) to Vision (head-up display, sunroof and adaptive LED lights, $3454).

The C250 variants gain real leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, active blind spot and lane-keeping assist and pedestrian recognition for the autonomous braking software.

In the rear, passengers enjoy a noticeable 45mm extra leg space along with improved shoulder and headroom. The rear seats are really only a two-adult proposition, as evidenced by the fold-down armrest- cupholders built in to the back of the middle position.

Cargo volume starts at 490L - identical to that in Audi's A4 Avant and 5L short of BMW's 3 Series Touring. The wagon rides on run-flat tyres so an inflation kit is the standard spare, though a 16-inch space-saver is a no-cost accessory.

And it rides well. From behind the wheel there's no impression this is a utility vehicle intended to carry loads rather than corner speed.

The rear dampers are slightly stiffer than the sedan to help offset lugging heavy cargo but the Benz still refuses to buck on broken surfaces. The seven-speed auto responds rapidly to throttle inputs, so even the base petrol engine feels far more responsive than its figures suggest.