  What's New for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
It's 2005, and Mercedes-Benz brings its entry-level C-Class lineup into the 21st century. For instance, this year you don't have to pay extra for a CD player, and the optional navigation system is DVD-based rather than CD-ROM based. The 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class also sees redesigned headlights and tail lamps, and a nicely redesigned interior is added including a new dash, instrument cluster, audio equipment, and seats. New options include multi-contour seats for the passenger as well as the driver, and by revising option packages Mercedes makes it less expensive to get features like split-folding rear seats and seat memory functions. A new Entertainment package gives you a six-disc CD changer with a 12-speaker, 320-watt audio system. Standard Mercedes-Benz C-Class models equipped with the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system include heated seats for 2005. On a disappointing note, the free scheduled maintenance program has been discontinued for 2005. Advantages of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class:
- Low entry price expands Mercedes ownership to the middle class
- Germanic ride and handling
- Available all-wheel-drive
- Wide variety of models from which to choose
Objections to the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: - Prices can climb to dizzying heights with options
- Small back seat
- Not as luxurious as the Audi A4
- Not as athletic as the BMW 3-Series
- Not as refined as the Acura TL
- Not as comfortable as the Lexus ES 330
Editor's Advice:
Looking for a foothold from which to achieve Mercedes-Benz ownership? Here we have the C-Class, the baby Benz by which you can proudly display the three-pointed star on your key fob without having to yank equity out of the house or submit your children to indentured servitude in an effort to make the monthly payments. Our chief complaint about the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is that aside from brand cachet and upscale styling, there is little compelling about the car. Consider that the Audi A4 feels more luxurious from the driver's seat, the BMW 3-Series is a much better dance partner on any kind of road, the Acura TL is more refined inside and offers a much smarter value proposition, and the Lexus ES 330 is far more comfortable – we can't help but be left with the feeling that the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is all about that shiny, chrome three-pointed star hood ornament.
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