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Gateway models sometime fall well short of their more expensive counterparts in a luxury automaker's lineup, but that isn't the case with the C-class. This relatively affordable Benz bears pleasing similarities to the storied S-class, and it delivers this goodness at a reasonable price. Its cabin is chic and opulent, and its handling is crisp and engaging. Sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles are offered. The C300 is no slouch in the fun department, but those seeking a little extra kick will want to investigate the AMG variants, which step things up significantly when it comes to performance. We review those models, the C43 and C63, separately.

With all C300 and C300 4Matic models, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is standard, and it generates 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission performs gearshifting duties. Rear-wheel drive is standard; trims with 4Matic in their monikers come with all-wheel drive. The engine gets this Mercedes off the line without delay. In our testing of a rear-drive coupe, it motivated the C300 from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. It's appropriately muted at idle and at highway speeds, but its soundtrack at full throttle is less pleasing than you'd expect. The powerplant puts the C-class sedan on par with the Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.0T in quickness and a tad behind the Audi A4. The transmission complements the engine nicely, providing intuitive shifts.