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2007 Mercedes-Benz C Class

by Martha Hindes

Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Mercedes-Benz C Class Interior

You could call it headline news. In anticipation of upcoming federal regulations, Mercedes-Benz has jumped the gun by adding an active front head restraint to all of its C-Class models. That might not seem like a big deal, but in a couple of years all passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. will need such a system, or will be required to have their headrests pitched forward about 1-1/4 inches. The idea is to prevent whiplash in the event of an accident. No one bothered to mention neck aches from driving that way.

The active system from Mercedes-Benz that allows a more natural driving position isn't the big news for 2007. It actually was included on C-Class vehicles a year ago. However, we thought it worth mentioning in conjunction with 2007 updates because of its potential impact on comfort.

For 2007, Mercedes-Benz has fine tuned and trimmed its lineup. Gone is the gutsy C55 AMG from Merecedes-Benz's high performance studio. Models now consist of the C230, C280 and C350, all sedans. But while the AMG is gone, it's not forgotten. C-Class Sports sedans keep the distinctive AMG rear spoiler, dual tip exhaust and black birdseye maple interior trim. The C280 Lux sedan gets standard dual power front seats and steering column with memory. And new wheel designs for Sport and Luxury models are C-Class exclusives.

All C-Class sedans ride on new generation V-6 power. The C230 Sport gets a 2.5-liter, 201-HP version, the Luxury a C280 3.0-liter 228-HP version. The performance oriented C350 (sport or luxury trim) has 3.5-liter power generating 268-HP. (Last year's 5.5-liter, 362-HP V-8 was dropped with the AMG.) On the numbers side, seven-speed automatic is standard, while sports sedans get a six-speed manual. Luxury models with all-wheel-drive get a five-speed 4MATIC tranny.

C Class autos drink premium, but the C280 lux sedan model with seven-speed auto gets best 22/28 mileage. The 4MATIC five-speed C350 lux is lowest (19/24). Base prices range from $30,425 to $39,375. The C230 is a flexible fuel vehicle that can run on E85 ethanol as well as gasoline.

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