Later this year, we will see the new model in the range which will have a wider choice of 4-6 cylinder engines with 13% more output than the current model but with 6% lower fuel consumption.

Top marks here as the new model is more substantial . . . 55 mm longer and 42mm wider with a 45mm longer wheelbase.

All this adds up to a car that has evolved in subtle styling changes to become one of the most soughtafter executive saloons internationally.

The extra dimensions create an impressive cabin area with more room inside but the developments in engine technology and new safety features are the high points.

In the petrol engine range the 4-cylinder entry level C180 Kompressor has jumped from 143 bhp to 156 bhp with torque up from 220 to 230 Nm. The C200 Kompressor is even more impressive with 20 bhp extra on tap. The 184 bhp develops 250 Nm of torque from 2800rpm. The modifications improve performance with faster acceleration and in the case of the C180 Mercedes the fuel consumption is down by 0.3 litre per 100 km and by 0.5 litres per 100 km in the case of the C200 Kompressor.

Diesel engines are important and here there are modifications to 90 components. The C220 CDI output jumps from 150 to 170 bhp and torque is up by 18% while fuel consumption is reduced in line with petrol engines.

A rigorous 100 car crash test programme has made this the safest C-Class yet.

Now over 70% of the bodyshell is made of high strength and ultra high strength steel and there are larger crumple zone areas to absorb impacts.

Added safety comes from flashing brake lights at over 50 km/h, seven airbags and clever padded head restraints which push forward to protect the head and neck in the event of a rear-end collision.

There is an optional PreSafe protection system which detects impending danger while there is also an Intelligent Light System available to provide five different light functions.

To make driving easier there is a Command system now available in the C-Class. This provides voice-activated radio channels and wirelessly connects mobile phones to the handsfree system.

The new C-Class is due to be launched here in the first week of July when prices will be announced.