What Is It?
2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
What's Special About It?
This midcycle refresh of Mercedes' entry-level sedan includes several changes to the suspension and interior as well as a notable new power plant for the top-of-the-line AMG model. Most of the drivetrain upgrades made to the C-Class were geared toward giving it a more sporting feel — like a quick-shifting six-speed transmission, slightly wider track and faster steering ratio. The engine choices for the standard models remain unchanged, but the former C32 AMG becomes the C55 thanks to the installation of a new 5.5-liter V8 engine. With 367 horsepower and a five-speed automatic transmission with fingertip control, the C55 promises unparalleled performance in its class.
All C-Class models get a face-lifted interior with large analog gauges and a more user-friendly automatic climate control system. Varying degrees of wood and metallic trim dress up the revised cabin while redesigned seats promise added comfort. New features include bi-xenon adaptive headlights that follow the contours of the road and an upgraded DVD navigation system with voice activation.
What's Edmunds Take?
Never one of Mercedes' best efforts in our minds, the C-Class should fare better with this year's round of updates. The fresh interior addresses one of the previous car's weak points and an increase in its athleticism should pull it closer to the class-leading BMW 3 Series. It's doubtful that either change will have BMW on the run, but at least Mercedes is admitting that it's behind in this race. — Ed Hellwig
2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
What's Special About It?
This midcycle refresh of Mercedes' entry-level sedan includes several changes to the suspension and interior as well as a notable new power plant for the top-of-the-line AMG model. Most of the drivetrain upgrades made to the C-Class were geared toward giving it a more sporting feel — like a quick-shifting six-speed transmission, slightly wider track and faster steering ratio. The engine choices for the standard models remain unchanged, but the former C32 AMG becomes the C55 thanks to the installation of a new 5.5-liter V8 engine. With 367 horsepower and a five-speed automatic transmission with fingertip control, the C55 promises unparalleled performance in its class.
All C-Class models get a face-lifted interior with large analog gauges and a more user-friendly automatic climate control system. Varying degrees of wood and metallic trim dress up the revised cabin while redesigned seats promise added comfort. New features include bi-xenon adaptive headlights that follow the contours of the road and an upgraded DVD navigation system with voice activation.
What's Edmunds Take?
Never one of Mercedes' best efforts in our minds, the C-Class should fare better with this year's round of updates. The fresh interior addresses one of the previous car's weak points and an increase in its athleticism should pull it closer to the class-leading BMW 3 Series. It's doubtful that either change will have BMW on the run, but at least Mercedes is admitting that it's behind in this race. — Ed Hellwig
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