Mercedes-Benz's new range of compact models has been attracting much attention in the automotive industry for the past couple of years and it comes as no surprise that the new C-Class (W205) does the same.

The C-Class has been one of Singapore's best-selling compact executive sedans, competing with models such as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS and the Volvo S60.


Unveiled at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show, the new C-Class is an enormous leap from its predecessor, with huge improvements across the board, a more appealing design and a step up in quality.

The new C-Class is also the first model to utilise Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) platform, which will go on to serve under the rest of Mercedes' larger rear-wheel driven models too.

Exterior

The new C-Class is much bigger than before, growing in almost every crucial dimension. At 4,686mm x 1,810mm x 1,442mm (L x W x H), the new C-Class is 95mm longer, 40mm wider but sits 5mm lower than before. In fact, it is almost as big as an E-Class from two generations ago.

There is certainly some attraction to the design of the new C-Class that makes it look like a shrunken version of Mercedes' flagship brethren, the S-Class.

The front fascia sees a purposeful look with the new signature upright Mercedes grille, shapely lower air intakes and LEDs set into the sleek-looking swept-back headlights.


There is also an S-Class-like low-slung profile that is punctuated by the same neatly styled lines from the front fenders to the rear doors as well as a sporty curved rear three-quarter.

The back of the new C-Class is very sophisticated with some serious curves and large, modern LED taillights - helping the car to enhance its width. In fact, the resemblance to the S-Class is most obvious from this view.