2008 Mercedes-Benz C-class

The C-class is the best selling Mercedes-Benz, so an all-new car is a big deal for the manufacturer. The new C-class is available as a C300, C350, or the AMG-tuned C63. The C300 is available with two distinct front end treatments - the Luxury has a traditional Mercedes grille and upright hood star, the Sport has a more aggressive front fascia and a grille with an integrated logo. The C300's 3.0-liter V-6 can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission, and produces 228 hp and 221 lb.-ft. The C350 Sport is, ironically, automatic-only, and its 3.5-liter V-6 makes 268 hp and 258 lb.-ft. If you're brave enough to climb into the C63 AMG, you'll have 451 hp and 442 lb.-ft. of torque available from a 6.2-liter V-8.

The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system available on the C300 has been improved for greater fuel economy, and C300 models are now flex-fuel capable, which means they can burn E85 in addition to gasoline.