C180 aims for the stars

With the legendary three-point star emblem prominently displayed, there is no doubt that the C180 is a Mercedes-Benz.

The car commands a presence on the road, with its sophisticated look and blend of safety, speed and comfort, all packed into a luxury sedan. It also contains a well-balanced suspension that offers the highest level of ride comfort in its class. It is obvious that the engineers at Mercedes-Benz went all out to raise the bar of ingenuity and elegance with a sporty feel. says Nedita Gibson, marketing executive at Silver Star Motors.

Mercedes has made the latest C180 more sporty than its predecessor. It's 13 per cent stiffer and is fitted with agility control, which automatically alters the response to match road conditions and cornering force. The end result is that the C180 blends excellent body control with stability when negotiating corners.

Refined engine

This Mercedes-Benz model has the most refined engine in its class and is configured to have low noise readings and minimal engine interruptions. "The interior safety technology has been complemented with the very latest protection system, Gibson told Automotives.

The standard safety features of the C180 are centred around the total protection of its passengers. Seven airbags are included as standard equipment, together with belt tensioners ... and belt force limiters on the driver and passenger seats. Mercedes-Benz has also developed flashing brake lights which vastly reduce rear-end collisions.

The brake lights flash continuously and rapidly to warn drivers behind when they get too close. And, in keeping with the efficiency package which the car manufacturer has enhanced for its 2011 models, the C180 also has comprehensive vehicle optimisations, designed to save fuel and to be environmentally friendly. There is also the introduction of a new feature known as 'Blue Efficiency', which offers a more attractive range of petrol and diesel engines for outstanding performance with reduced fuel consumption.

The Mercedes-Benz C180 has climatised multi-contour seats, extensive storage facilities and, for the first time, a fully adjustable speed limit display - the only vehicle in the C-Class to offer an Active Lane Keeping Assist system, which is an independent proximity control braking system or emergency braking, with Distronic Plus.

"The C180 is a highly successful model that has been attracting an increasing number of customers, Gibson said.

The price of the C180 begins at $5.3 million.

- Nicholas Myers