Standard safety features across the C-Class range include adaptive cruise control, active lane-keeping, blind-spot assist, driver fatigue detection, speed limit assist, tyre pressure monitoring, 360-degree cameras and autonomous emergency braking. The C300 adds additional features, including active bind-spot assist and active lane-change assist, active lane-keep assist, active steering assist (active functions can assist to avoid or steer away from trouble), and traffic sign assist.

Like all W206 models are slated to be – including the forthcoming C53 and C63 – the C200 and C300 are turbocharged four-cylinder cars, with these everyday models also equipped with a 48-volt mild hybrid system that adds a modest additional boost. Most other sedans in this segment – and there is no wagon available, sadly – are still sold with the option of a six-cylinder engine (BMW M340i and M3, Audi S4 and RS4, Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio). The new C-Class will not join them.

First impressions matter, and the new C-Class makes a strong one. At night it looks incredible, more concept car than executive sedan, thanks to its high-resolution screens and flashy ambient lighting. At first glance all the materials look expensive, although the myriad gloss black surfaces (along with the screens) are magnets for fingerprints. The driving position leaves a bit to be desired though. There’s enough legroom for taller drivers to get comfortable, but the relationship between the seat, steering wheel, and instrument cluster just felt slightly off to me. Bundle in the fact the footrest was too small for my foot, and the C wasn’t as comfortable as it really should be.