STUNG by critics blasting the previous model for being too uninvolving to drive and un-Mercedes like in quality, the Germans have created a different type of C-class – one in which a BMW driver might feel at home one that rivals Audi for ambience and cabin presentation and one that won’t be left too far behind by Lexus’ compelling value pricing. The question is though: Is the new W204 a new and better type of compact luxury car for the marque, or is it closer to the old Mercedes ideal of bank-vault design and engineering?