C a new star?

The all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class threatens to set an all new benchmark.

You would be careful if it's the one model that brings you the maximum volumes worldwide "" the C-Class is the biggest selling Merc across the planet, having sold over 1.4 million units.

Not surprising, it was gorgeous to look at, fused headlamps, a dynamic stance, a neat bunch of powertrains, et al, when it was launched in 2000. Heck, DaimlerChrysler even roped in the gorgeous Vanessa-Mae to strum a specially composed tune (The Power of C) to launch the car internationally.

However, despite all its success, it never could shackle the dynamically brilliant BMW 3 Series off its mantle. And it only got worse as the generation shifted from the E46 3 Series to the E90. Now, Mercedes-Benz is back. Back from a host of recalls and years of reliability issues that it would rather consign to the incinerator with the all-new C-Class.

At first glance, it is not very hard to scream "CL rip-off" with those trapezoidal headlamps, the three-slat grille and an aggressive lower chin. Hints of the new S-Class can also be seen, but effectively the design has matured, presenting itself as a viable option to the likes of the Audi A4 that seems to have become a hit with European corporates.

Available in either avantgarde or classic trim, the exteriors can be differentiated by the very AMG style 3-pointed star on the grille. Wonder what happens when AMG launch their baby DTM for the roads that's rumoured to produce 450 horsepower!

On the inside, Mercedes has taken the best bits from its current range to give it rather rich looking interiors.

The company claims that every knob and button has been selected to match the dials and the two-tone dashboard using a single mould design concept. Using an advanced infotainment and navigation system with its own harddisk, you can just store every street and turn that Europe has to offer.

But more than the rich interiors and the sparkling exteriors, it is the engines and technology that thrill the auto enthusiast every time a Merc goes to the cleaners, er, design team.

Power is derived via a choice of engines, including the humble 1800cc petrol to the magnificent 3500cc V6, but with states of tune that have bumped up power by 10 to 13 per cent.

Except for the V6 that has 7GTronic, the rest are linked to a six-speed transmission. The C220 CDI now sees power going up from 150 bhp to 170 bhp with a staggering 40 kgm of torque, putting it in the league of some 3000cc diesels.

To put all that power under control, DaimlerChrysler have developed the Agility Control package. Three vital components "" the steering, suspension and gearbox "" have been tuned to provide a balance between comfort and agility.

Low speed ride that can get a little stiff has been substantially improved while the steering and gearbox have become more responsive with more directness and precise throw.

When the car hits the Geneva Motor Show in a few weeks' time, the world will be closely watching a car that promises to set the benchmark and raise aspirations in its segment. We can't wait until early next year when DaimlerChrysler India launches the new C formally in the country. And we're pretty sure Audi and BMW are also paying attention...