THE $60,000 executive sedan market is hotting up thanks to a plethora of new players like the Skoda Superb AWD and Volvo S60 II, but the base model Mercedes-Benz C-class is still the leader.
Recently revised with a direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine and increase in standard specification, it now represents a much more compelling value for money proposition than the hoary old supercharged C200K Kompressor, as well as yet another welcome return to quality form for the German brand.
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W203 C180 Kompressor sedan
Released: October 2002
Ended: July 2007
Family Tree: C-ClassWITH its baby S-class styling and easy, comfortable driving experience, the previous-gen C-class seemed like it would have it all in the bag.After all, the C180 Kompressor offered a grunty 105kW/220Nm 1.8-litre supercharged four-cylinder petrol/five-speed automatic gearbox combination that provided spirited mid-range performance and decent fuel economy compared to the normally aspirated version it replaced. But there was something missing from the last, South African-built C-class range – the sort of quality and solid build that people just naturally associated with the marque. Unfortunately for an otherwise fine luxury sedan contender, this is what many people will remember the third-generation C-class for.
Get the full story: Mercedes-Benz launches an all-new C-class like we've never known - or have we?
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