It Fits All Your Parental Needs (The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350)

Mom and Dad Styling In The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350

Stylish mid-size cars for the average mom are usually hard to come by. Usually mid-size cars for moms or better yet, for families in general are often seen in the form of minivans. In the world of mid-size mom mobiles, style is often a hard thing to find. As Benjamin Franklin once said "A house is not a home unless it contains food and fire for the mind as well as the body." Most of the luxury mid-size SUV’s fail to deliver this food and fire to the consumer. This ends as the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 is introduced to the market of SUV’s/mid-size cars.  

Immediately, upon viewing the 2012 GLK 350 you see the angular features and curvy nature of the sedan. The GLK is much different than the usual SUV or mid-size car that appears to be boxy and conventional. Although the GLK has only been in production since 2009, it has taken lessons from others in the field that remains with the same traditional bulky styling approach. It remains obvious that Mercedes-Benz had the words sleek and compact in mind when this car was produced.  The interior presence is something unfamiliar for a mid-size/SUV car, as the car looks like it can get you to work in style and yet also haul the kids to school in the morning. The interior of this car gives off a comfortable vibe (which may be needed when lugging children around) making any commute with kids more bearable. On top of all this utility, you actually get some sport (for some times the children aren’t in the car!) in this SUV. This GLK can make rather mundane everyday driving quite fun.

Curb Appeal (The Exterior)

This car really turns some heads on the road, as it sticks out compared to other SUV/mid-size cars. While the GLK is angular, it does not fall into the trend of looking like an architect’s worse design plan. This car features many angles on the hood. Mercedes adopted the idea from the big brother model, the GL-series, and made the hood line slant downwards so that all the lines lead to the hood. At the same time these angular lines are combined with a somewhat square stance. The mix between conventional, angular, and curvy sets this vehicle apart from the crowd. Although, this car can be called a “mini-SUV”, the high door line this car features also give the illusion of added height similar to the GL-series. Overall, the exterior can be described as stylistic compromise.  Mercedes-Benz has crafted a mid-size/SUV type car that keeps standard yet shapely features while remaining to be an eye catching machine.

Interior

As you look at the interior of this car, you feel engulfed in class and elegance. Surrounded by walnut inlays and trimmings, the interior reminds driver of a spa-type atmosphere. Not only does this machine make you feel at home, but it can be more accommodating to your desires. With the Premium and Multimedia packages, this car completely changes identity from SUV/mid-size car to near equivalent home. The Premium package ($3,200) makes this interior even better. It includes a panoramic sunroof which makes you feel as if you are on your porch soaking up the summer sun. Additionally, for those who thoroughly enjoy music this package also adds XM radio, that makes even the worst traffic jams seemingly nonexistent.  A favorite of many parents in this package, is the power lift gate which makes unloading mounds of gear and groceries that much more simple. Featuring 54.7 cu.ft of space, the GLK can easily manage even your biggest grocery, shopping trips and pick-ups.

The Multimedia package ($3,000) appeals to the tech-savvy parents. This package gives you the easy to control and read 7 inch display Command system. Also, as an additional perk, XM/ Sirius traffic helps you guide your way around congested areas to get to your kids or destination faster.  This XM/Sirius system also allows for seamless iPod integration so your playlists are always at your disposal.  

In addition to the fantastic features listed above, the GLK seems to be a good car to transport people around in. The rich leather seats appear not only supportive but comfortable as well.  Passengers riding in this car should have plenty of space. This is because the GLK rear row features 35.1 inches of leg room and 39.7 inches of head room. Even with the intrusion of the optional panoramic sunroof, tall and long passengers won’t feel crammed. Although seen as a mini-SUV/mid-sized car the interior features SUV like qualities. Overall, the interior of the GLK 350 is one that every car manufacturer should learn from. It mixes roominess, comfortableness, and elegance which usually don’t describe mini-van or mini-SUV interiors.

Performance

Originally, SUV’s were built and valued for their off road prowess and qualities and not for their on-road performance. Lately, SUV’s are being built with a fair amount of on-road prowess with the aim of tackling the urban jungle that is, your local community or city. The GLK suspension helps in this task. The suspension consists of 4 wheel independent multi-link and shock absorbers that are constantly adjusted via a program called “agility control”. Although, I have not personally driven the GLK, rumor has it that this “agility control” feature enhances ride quality, especially for city driving. Under the hood lies a 3.5 liter aluminum head dual overhead cam (DOHC) V6 that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of torque. This V6 engine also features multi-point direct injection in addition to a ’knock sensor’. This engine should be quite responsive to any response you may ask of it whether it be sensible driving or trying to show off to the red light racers around town. Interestingly enough, this GLK climbs from 0 to 60 in a stunning 6.5 seconds. Definitely, the GLK is an SUV for thrills and chills per se.

Appealing and Rugged? The 2012 M-Class

You’ll Like This SUV

Maybe you’re a soccer mom. Maybe you’re a worker looking for a stylish and rugged car to carry your tools around in. Whatever your needs may be the 2012 M-Class appeals to all. Coming to local dealers this upcoming September, the new 2012 M-Class seeks to blend off-road versatility with the kind of on-road manners expected of a Mercedes sedan. This car can be used to bring your tools from Home Depot while accommodating your luxury needs in case of a Gala or fancy ball you’re attending. Classy and dynamic describes this third-generation SUV.

Sensible Styling

Anyone expecting a complete shift in Mercedes' design and look will be disappointed. This is a familiar-looking M-Class to our eyes, blending hints of the full-size GL and compact GLK SUVs. The famous three-pointed star continues to dominate the grille and the prominent shoulder lines lead the way to a rear that emphasizes its width with taillights that echo the 2012 E-class.

Arguably the most challenging feature is to be found to the rear of the C-pillar, where the angular surfaces give place to an eccentrically curved rear window. "We tried different solutions," says Kaul, "but we wanted to keep some of the influence of the original M-Class." No less of an influence was a desire to optimize the aerodynamics, which Mercedes claims are class-leading. Careful attention was paid to the rear spoiler, the area around the windscreen and the front fenders, which integrate subtle spoilers.

Sedan-Worthy Cabin

Jan Kaul, the manager of the interior design, admits the overall concept was deliberately conservative and reflects the car's global appeal. "The biggest markets are Germany and the United States, but China and Russia are growing fast."

According to insideline.com, the cabin mimics the S-Class interior more than ever, but seeks to assert a distinctly SUV design language that's more upright and imposing. There's the familiar mix of rotary knobs and switches, topped by a common multifunction display screen. It seems as though customers now see the M-Class as an alternative to a traditional sedan and expect a similar level of quality. While the vibe of generations one and two was more utilitarian, the emphasis here is on luxury and ornamentation. Can you tell the difference between the earlier M-Class models compared to the current ones?

As always, Mercedes is never short with its options list and owners will be able to choose from a vast array of fancy gizmos and color combinations including Napa leather for the panels and some particularly appealing Ash-Wood trim. Customers of Mercedes-Benz will be free to indulge their eccentricities because of the plethora of extra options available. If you’re interested check out MBUSA.com and you’ll see how this 2012 M-Class can be dressed up to your likes.

Regardless of its trim, every M-Class will be tailored for four passengers. Although the average M-Class owner usually carries five passengers, Mercedes states they would rather optimize the comfort of a lucky foursome. Mercedes engineer Sinkwitz was quoted saying "If you need more space, we offer the R- and GL-Class".

What’s Under Those Hoods?

When the ML goes on sale in September it will be offered with two V-6 engines: the 3.5-liter gas or the 3.0-liter turbodiesel. Both achieve something that seemed impossible five to 10 years ago: They put out more power than before, and are more fuel-efficient. The gas engine has 302 horsepower, up 34 from previous models, and 273 pound-feet torque, up 15 from previous models as well. Its fuel economy is an estimated 17 city/22 highway, and both numbers are up by 2 mpg. This SUV is surely an improvement from the earlier models. I know my Mother’s ML which is a V8 only has 268 horsepower, and fuel economy is an abysmal 12 city/17 highway. I often ask myself how such a large engine could produce so meager power. But Mercedes has upped the ante in the horsepower aspect for the newer models as needed.

The BlueTec turbodiesel six has been reworked, now putting out 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque, increases of 30 and 55 from the previous model, respectively, while fuel economy improves by 2 city mpg to an estimated 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway. Not so bad for a decently sized SUV. This particular trims fuel economy numbers are comparable to that of mid-sized sedan. The fuel economy improvements in the diesel model can be attributed to a few key factors, including weight loss, and the use of AMG's twin-wire-arc spraying, a technology that reduces friction. Both engines are now pulled by a seven-speed automatic.

On Road Driving Features

One of the design goals Mercedes focused on with this model was to improve on-road driving dynamics while not sacrificing off-road capability. One new feature, which isn't coming to the U.S. right away, is a very sophisticated On & Off-road Package, which has at its core multiple settings. This is much like the systems in the LR4 and Grand Cherokee: Drivers control the dial and can choose between six settings: automatic, off-road 1 (light terrain) and 2 (tougher terrain), winter, sport, and trailer.  While this is available in European models, there's still debate about whether this system will come to the United States models. We all hope it does as it will enhance the dynamic nature this car already has. One thing potential buyers should be aware of is that the 2012 M-Class will come is the Active Curve System, which uses active anti-roll bars said to improve comfort when driving in a straight line, and prioritize better handling when cornering. However, at the dealer this feature will be initially being offered as a special order feature.

Bigger is Better (2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class)

Introduction

Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a reference point for large luxury sedans, with specious coddling interiors, plentiful and useful technology, and a lineup that covers everything from a lower powered engine to the most powerful four-door production car in the world. A true competitor with the best describes the Mercedes S-Class. Names such as the Audi A8L, BMW 7 Series, and to a lesser extent the Lexus LS are often heard in the same breath when comparing the S-Class to other cars of its kind. This S-Class certainly takes it looks seriously, and will see a fair share of glued eyes on it. 

Which S-Class Do You Want? (Lineup)

2012 S-Class (Shown With Xenon Headlights)

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class line has five models: S550 ($91,600); S550 4MATIC ($94,600); S63 AMG ($133,550); S600 ($149,700); S65 AMG ($201,150).  Breath taking prices certainly, but soon you’ll know why it deserves such a hefty price tag.

All S-Class models include leather upholstery (yes, actual real leather), dual-zone climate control, walnut trim, navigation system with voice recognition and Zagat guide, heated 14-way power front seats with lumbar, heated power mirrors, 600-watt harman/kardon 15-speaker, 6CD, Logic 7 surround sound system with weather band and satellite radio, front/rear illuminated vanity mirrors, air suspension with ride height and damping control, bi-Xenon headlamps, and full power accessories. Most come with a moonroof and 18-inch wheels as standard. 

S550 has a 5.5-liter 382-horsepower V8 engine and an accompanying seven-speed automatic to spin the wheels. The S550 is also available in 4MATIC and it receives 15 mpg in the city and 23mpg on the highway. S600 comes with a 510-horsepower twin-turbo 5.5-liter V12 engine estimated to get a puny 11 mpg in the city and 17 mpg at highway speeds. Additionally, the S600 come standard with a five-speed automatic, wider rear wheels and most technology equipment standard. 

The all-powerful S63 AMG uses a 518-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 and seven-speed automatic transmission. But with such impressive horsepower and bigger engine size comes a suffering in the fuel department as it receives 11 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. Driving a vehicle like this you wouldn’t even mind that type of mileage considering the fun you’ll be having behind the wheel. Taking a slight step-up in the power department comes the S65 AMG, which boasts a 604-horsepower twin-turbo 6-liter V12 engine. Surprisingly, despite the shocking increase in power gas mileage matches the “smaller” S63 AMG. But price tag wise, you’ll see the S65 AMG stamped virtually every feature one could ask for along with a heart wrenching $200,000 price tag.

Safety features on every S-Class include eight airbags, electronic stability control and PreSafe which will close the roof and windows and reposition the seat and its pneumatic lumbar for an impending collision. Fully equipped models use radar to stop the car automatically from up to 125 mph if the driver fails to pay attention and can alert the driver to unsafe lane changes. Night View offers a black-and-white TV-picture-like image of the road and people ahead in the central dashboard area used for the speedometer (which becomes a bar-graph along the bottom edge while ancillary gauges remain as normal). 

Do You Like What You See?

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has many similarities with regards to body panels and lines as it did for its 2007 debut; with excellent aerodynamics and a modern looking style. 

LED lights have become more prominent with most versions sporting white daytime running lights in the lower bumper, standing lights and parking lights that switch to amber for front signals. As parking lights a strip of LEDs below the headlamps and three vertically on the side illuminate, but as standing lights (as you might use when parallel-parked on a dark lane) only the three vertical lights and corresponding rear LEDs glow, so you could leave them on overnight without affecting the battery. New tail lights that get rid of the body-colored strips within are attention-getting LED as well; V12 models get adaptive brake lights that blink rapidly during heavy braking. 

The S-Class design has discernible fender flares front and rear, classic grille more laid back, and a generally flowing shape not unlike the sister-brand Maybach. These lines pay off in minimal noise and aero drag, high-speed stability, and an air of exclusivity afforded by the rear doors more than four feet long and the chrome strip framing the side glass. AMG models get quad oval tail pipes, a more aggressive look and air management with visual mass added to the lower bodywork, deeper grille and larger diameter wheels available with the Sport package on non-AMG models. 

Almost Like Home (Interior)

As expected with the S-Class model it boasts a large, luxurious cabin with all the features and amenities one could reasonably expect. Unlike others similar cars, the S-Class for the United States market comes only in the long wheelbase version. Long wheelbase basically means it is a version of the car with plentiful room up front and even more in the back seats. It appears to be an ideal fit for those tall drivers out there.

Heated, 14-way adjustable powered front seats offer three memory settings. These seats offer a wide ranges of adjustment including seat cushion length and will frequently adjust headrest height automatically, which like many controls, you can manually override if you please.  

Drive Dynamic front seats offer ventilation, four varieties of massage, further adjustments for cushion and back sides, lumbar and shoulders. Also, in what appears to a sport seat with the comfort of a fine armchair, these seats can inflate side bolsters relevant to cornering load to hold you in place without being confining. It is impressive to see what these can do for the driver, and how it can change the whole entire driving experience.

Not only is the driving experience enhance comfort wise, but this S-Class has made it even easier to see the road that lies ahead. Visibility is very good for the driver, with a sloping hood, reasonable pillars, parking sensors at both ends of the car, rear camera, high intensity bi-Xenon headlamps, fine-line defrosters, eight heated windshield washer jets, and rear headrests that drop out of sight at touch of a driver's button. 

Rear seating is not a problem at all in this car. With extensive legroom and four AC/heat vents, separate cabin and reading lamps, and overhead lit vanity mirrors this car is ready for any potential road trip. If those who you are carrying in the back frequently are worthy there is an available rear-seat upgrade package that adds left/right pillar mounted rear climate control, plus heated and ventilated power-adjustable outboard seats and headrests. Maybe for those who carry around young kids, there is the entertainment package adds a height adjustable screen with video inputs behind each front headrest, video inputs and a DVD drive under the center rear seat, dual wireless headphones and an individual remote for each screen and the car's main audio system.  Simply put, this car is as comfortable and roomy as a library.

One of my favorite features to talk about is the night view this car offers. With Night View engaged the screen (located at the top of the dashboard) shows an image of the view ahead with pedestrians highlighted, with speed along the bottom and warning lights superimposed around the periphery of the image. Its central line of sight location and crisp imagery make this the best system of its type. This feature promotes safe and courteous driving in city, suburb, and more importantly rural areas. I’d find it quite difficult to get into an accident in such a car.  Another exciting option to mention is unique to the average driver. Coined “Splitview” by Mercedes this is practically a life-saver for those who seem to have no fun riding shotgun. This Splitview feature lets the driver see one full-size image (map, radio, seat control) while the passenger sees another (a movie with headphones or map if they're navigating) simultaneously on the single central screen. Stunning right? Slide across the rear seat or walk behind the car and you won’t think that such a thing is possible in a car. 

Lastly, Mercedes-Benz dubs their control system COMAND. COMAND uses a round knob that rotates and moves in three dimensions, a mouse-shaped palm-rest that hides a 10-key pad within and four quick-access buttons across the front. Through a series of quick-to-master menus and scrolls it controls hundreds of things, and while you can rotate the COMAND knob to change radio stations you can also use the keypad to punch the number directly. The system is very competitive with Audi's MMI interface, BMW's newest version of iDrive and Lexus mouse controller. 

Bottom-line, this is quite a car. It is one the safest and most comfortable cars on the market today with reason. I could go on for days talking praising the advanced nature of this car. Mercedes-Benz truly out did their selves here with this S-Class, now all you have to do is go buy it and experience first-class luxury and prestige. Test drive it and you won’t question the price tag. Hope you enjoy!

Step Into The Next Class (The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class)

Daddy’s Favorite Benz

Beauty, elegance, and sleekness are words that describe the Mercedes-Benz 2012 E-Class. This is the most interesting body styling of the E-Class compared to the previous years which featured the signature bug eyed headlights and rather simplistic body lines. This newly redesigned E-Class will certainly cause some rubbernecking (for the right reason) when you slowly cruise around town. The fresh face lift this model received seems a bit awkward, but as soon as you see the three pointed star on the hood, you know what it represents. New for the 2012 year are the E-Class coupe and convertible, and the sedan remains.  How could you not want to own one of these for the New Year? Besides, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class remains a top choice against a plethora of competitors, including those from Audi (A5, A6, S5), BMW (5 Series, M5), Infiniti (M37 and M56), Jaguar (XF) and Porsche (Panamera). All these are very nice cars, but the E-Class holds a class of its own.

All You Want To Hear About (Body Style, Trim Levels, Options for the picky)

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is available in five-passenger sedan, four-passenger coupe, four-passenger convertible (Cabriolet) and seven-passenger wagon body styles. Each is further broken into different trims that correspond with its engine. The sedan is available in E350, E550 4Matic and E63 AMG variants. The coupe and cabriolet are E350 and E550, the E-Class wagon is E350 4Matic and E63 AMG. As noted in my previous blog post, 4Matic refers to the all-wheel-drive system.

The E350 sedan is similarly equipped with alloy 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, a sunroof, rain sensing automatic wipers, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment and memory functions, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, interior accent lighting, auto-dimming inside and driver-side mirrors, the COMAND electronics interface, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system with a six-CD/DVD changer and an auxiliary audio jack.

The E350 sedan is further broken down into the Luxury and Sport sub-trims, which vary in suspension tuning, styling, interior trim and wheel design. Either trim still carries it class and elegance. The E350 wagon gets standard all-wheel drive (4MATIC), a power liftgate, a rearview camera and a rear-facing third-row seat. The E350 coupe gets sport seats, leather upholstery, a 60/40 split-folding backseat and a console-mounted transmission gear selector with paddle shifters for those who want a little more control and fun from the automatic transmission.

Every E550 adds bigger and higher performing brakes to handle all the power that engine packs, 18-inch stylish wheels and leather upholstery (which is also optional on the E350). The E550 4Matic sedan comes with standard all-wheel drive along with the Sport sub-trim items. The E550 coupes get a sport-tuned suspension along with a sport body kit for added aggressiveness and curb appeal.

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG includes most of the E550's equipment plus a larger V8, various AMG-engineered and tuned components (transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust), headlight washers, a sport steering wheel, sport seats with adjustable bolsters, AMG special styling elements inside and out, and the premium sound system with satellite radio and iPod interface. The sedan gets a standard power rear sunshade and a split-folding rear seat, while the wagon gets a standard panoramic roof. This car has all the treats you need for the long trips and just for daily grocery getter. Finally, the AMG Performance package (which will be explained later on) adds additional power, more aggressive suspension tuning, a sportier steering wheel, a higher top speed, red brake calipers and a carbon-fiber engine cover.

Powertrains and Performance

The Mercedes-Benz E350 models come with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine surely is a thrill to wield since it is coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission that can be switched between sport and comfort modes with ease. Unfortunately, for the manual transmission enthusiasts, the 2012 E-Class does not offer a manual gearbox, but the automatic surely does the job. The rear-wheel drive is standard on all except for the family friendly wagon. All-wheel drive (4Matic) is standard on the wagon and optional on the sedan.  Based on Mercedes-Benz of USA, it is reported that the rear-wheel drive E350 sedan can launch from zero to 60 mph in a quick 6.5 seconds. Without surprise, the wagon and 4Matic’s short sprint (0 to 60 mph) is a bit slower due the added weight of the 4MATIC system. But the Cabriolet form of the E-Class sees improvement in the 0 to 60 mph department. The EPA, estimates that the E350 will achieve 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, rather decent figures for a V6 engine.

The E550 models get a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 that produces 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Impressive! Rear-wheel drive is standard on the coupe and cabriolet, while the sedan gets 4Matic all-wheel drive for the standard option. Mercedes-Benz analysts estimate the sedan will hit 60 in a jaw-dropping 5.2 seconds, while the coupe and Cabriolet should hit 5 flat or dip into the high 4 second range. This truly is stunning for a car that is quite heavy to say the least. The EPA estimates fuel economy stands at 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway regardless of trim level.

Finally, we get to the race inspired AMG E-Class. This car is a real head-turner, in more than one way. The E63 AMG gets a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 that cranks out 518 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This car is for the advanced driver, who enjoys thrills of mashing the pedal and seeing the tachometer race up. With the AMG Performance package, this already boastful car gets a healthy raise in horsepower from 550 and 590, respectively. Standard is rear-wheel drive and the AMG seven-speed automated manual transmission (TipTronic). It is reported that this machine can hit 60 mph from a standstill in about 4.2 seconds! Of course, when you’re driving a car like this fuel economy does not faze you as this Mercedes gets an estimated15 mpg city/22 mpg highway for the sedan and 14/21 for the wagon. Be careful out there if you choose to wield the ultimate E-Class on the road! Certainly, this car will leave you with a huge grin every time you sit in it.

The Baby Benz (2012 C-Class)

The Baby Benz (2012 C-Class)

The 2012 C-Class in action

How about a new 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class? Never mind, the talks of the increased performance of the BMW 3-series, the new 2012 C-Class boasts its own sportiness while providing an air of class and luxuriousness. Be advised, more sportiness does not sacrifice the ride quality, comfort, and the dynamic nature of the car. This is the tell-tale sign of Mercedes-Benz production; style, and reliability.

The newest addition of the 2012 is the all new C-Class coupe. Done away with after the 2005 model, this newly redesigned coupe gives Mercedes a more affordable and rather stylish entry in the two-door segment. Both the coupe and sedan levels share a fresh face with more curvaceous headlamps and better integrated LED daytime running lights. Not only has the exterior seen a facelift, but the interior has seen minor reworking’s for the better. Higher-quality gadgets, a more visually appealing design, and also a fixed display screen which replaces the awkward pop-up unit are the main attractions inside the new 2012 C-Class.

Engine wise, the C-Class model offers a wide variety of selection based on driver preference. If fuel economy/efficiency is a concern, the all-new C250 model features a lively turbocharged four cylinder engine. But what if you live in a seemingly frigid climate? No worries, the C300 4MATIC, has it all covered with the standard full time all-wheel drive system. Or if you even want a powerful beast that can give you thrills along with everyday drivability you can opt for the C350, which boasts 302 horsepower (34 more horses than the previous years model). Last but most certainly, not least is the German muscle car that competes with the best of the best; the C63 AMG. The AMG model is for true driving enthusiasts as it provides 451 horsepower. Every step on the pedal in this AMG model puts you firmly back in your seat asking for more.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

After a brief gloss over of the 2012 Mercedes Benz C-Class here’s where I get more in depth about body styles, trim levels, and potential options. As I said before, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available in sedan and coupe body styles, both of which are available in C250, C350 and C63 AMG trim levels. The sedan is furthermore available as a C300 4MATIC, while the coupe gets an added C63 AMG Black Series. The C250 and C300 trims all come standard with 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, automatic wipers, a sunroof/moonroof, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats (with adjustable lumbar), MB-Tex vinyl upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, auto-dimming interior and driver-side mirrors, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack, a USB audio jack and HD radio. The C300 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive and a V6 engine for a little pep in your journeys.

In its sedan form, the C250 and C300 are further divided into Luxury and Sport sub-trims. You’ll notice the difference between them in their wheel design, suspension tuning, styling details, steering wheel design and interior trim type. When equipped with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the Luxury also includes a comfort-tuned suspension. The Premium 1 package adds on four-way adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, heated front seats, driver memory seat functions, a power-adjustable steering wheel, split-folding rear seats and a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface (optional separately as well). If you ask me the Premium 1 Package will do keep you quite comfortable in your daily drives.

In coupe form, the C250 gets a beautiful panoramic sunroof, split-folding rear seats, additional driver seat adjustments, driver memory functions and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The coupe's Premium 1 package adds the heated seats and the Harman Kardon system with satellite radio and an iPod interface.

The C350 sedan comes with a sport mentality. It features a high output and bigger V6 engine and the Premium 1 package as a standard option; the C350 coupe adds a panoramic sunroof. The model above; the C63 AMG is equipped similarly in terms of comfort and convenience features, but gets 18-inch wheels, ultra high-performance tires, an adaptive sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, sport seats, more aggressive styling and different interior trim. This trim level is the best bang for your buck as you get a mix of high performance and comfort. Of course, Mercedes-Benz always offers a variety of options to dress up your vehicle to your standards.

Performance

Performance wise, each trim of the 2012 C-Class carries its own practicality. The entry level 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 is powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that produces 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic are standard. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined which is very good for the segment, and matches up well with other entry level sedans.

The Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 228 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, and it's the only C-Class that gets all-wheel drive. Fuel economy stands at 18 (city)/25(highway)/20(combined), decent gas mileage for a full time all-wheel drive system.

Under the hood of the Mercedes-Benz C350 is a 3.5-liter V6 which produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is an excellent 20/29/23. With the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, you get a 6.2-liter V8 that cranks out 451 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque; add the AMG Development package and horsepower gets bumped up to 481. Fuel economy is 13/19/15.

Finally, the C63 AMG Black Series gets a more powerful version of the 6.2-liter V8 good for 510 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. That should obviously make it quicker than the regular model. Either way the AMG models pack a punch, and will deliver a thrill to any driver out there.