Car Statistics: Mercedes - C Class Series 11 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

The C Class's face may have been contoured to ensure it fits into the current Mercedes family photo, but both saloon and estate remain instantly recognisable. The bumper, grille, air inlets and headlights have all been tweaked for a harder, road-hugging stare.

Handling (3 stars)

Refinement and comfort were clearly higher on Mercedes' facelift to-do list than exceptional handling characteristics, but the C Class delivers sure-footed poise without many noticeable wrinkles. Slick, grippy capability is favoured over feedback and thrills, but that will suit most.

Comfort (5 stars)

Point the C Class at a motorway and the miles hasten past in a whisper. If your commute is conducted over three lanes of black top look no further - Mercedes' compact exec is top of the class. Ride comfort, great seats and sound-deadened finesse combine to great effect.

Quality (4 stars)

Mercedes' staid new interior isn't going to win any design awards, but it's as well laid out as a science calculator and easy to use once you've memorised the buttons. The updated trim materials are also well chosen, and should wear high-mileage punishment without a murmur.

Performance (4 stars)

Whether you opt for a petrol or diesel engine, both entry-level models will present only workmanlike performance; we'd recommend loosening the purse strings a little and opting for the C 250 or the C 220 CDI which offer a far more satisfying breadth of ability. Anything badged 350 will feel wilfully quick.

Roominess (4 stars)

No change here over the pre-facelift model, which means there's sufficient room for two fully grown adults in the back even with comfortable space for those up front. The estate adds enough load space for furniture if you feel so inclined.

Costs (4 stars)

Increased efficiency is at the heart of the engine refresh, and all will offer improvement over their predecessors. The C220 CDI is again the range champion, delivering quoted fuel economy in the mid 60s for mpg, but expect to see handsome returns from all the four-cylinder BlueEfficiency engines.

Value (4 stars)

The standard SE trim comes equipped with parking guidance, climate control, cruise control and 16-inch alloys, but most buyers will opt for the mid-spec Elegance model which adds front fog lights, Artico upholstery and 17-inch wheels. The range-topping Sport gets a smattering of AMG extras, including a firmer suspension pack.

Stereo (3 stars)

If you're prepared to dip into the piggy bank, Mercedes will fit the kind of improved telematics and navigation which will see you better informed about your location than Google. Stay away from the options list and you'll simply find the C Class pre-wired for sat nav behind the dash.