Bigger engine and great improvements for 2006
Pros:
Great 7-spd transmission, quality, ride and engine.
Cons:
Expensive tires to replace
The Bottom Line:
For the price, I simply couldn't find a better alternative. Great car.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
I replaced my 2003 C230 Kompressor with the new 2006 C230 Sports Sedan.
Ownership summary:
- Purchased Jan. 2006, 14k miles so far
- Options: Sport package, moonroof,7-spd Auto, CD changer
- Average fuel consumption: 22 mpg
Having owned the 2003 for 3 years before buying this one, it's safe to say I like the C-class. The 2006 upgrades include a bigger engine, a truly impressive 7-speed automatic, revised suspension, upgraded brakes with cross-drilled discs, updated instrument cluster, and sport exhaust.
Let's start with the best, the transmission. My 2003 model had a 6 speed manual because I'm not impressed with standard auto boxes. When I test drove the new 7-speed, I was hooked. In sport mode, it will actually down-shift for you as you brake. It holds the gear even if you lift-off.
The suspension upgrades in the sport package transform this car into an engaging drive. Its always a compromise between comfort and performance, and for me (with my 2 kids as passengers) this car does a credible balance between the two worlds. The standard C-class is far too soft for ambitious driving, and a BMW 3-series with a sport package is far too harsh on US roads.
The engine is smooth and sounds great. Its fast enough when pushed, but if you really want to rocket you can always get the C350. The 2.5L V6 is torquey enough to make passing enjoyable, fuel economy is very respectable at an average of 22mpg (21.3 in town, 28 highway so far).
The new 6 CD-changer in the glove compartment is MP3 compatible, so you can use it with CDs containing 100 MP3 files each for a total of 600 songs per magazine.
Great build quality, fit and finish. Very quite inside.
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