The three-point silver star used to be synonymous with supreme excellence. However, over the last few years, it seems to have lost some of its legendary luster. Mercedes-Benz is trying just about anything to regain the trust of consumers with regard to reliability. Quality levels have been significantly improved, though the company's image still suffers.

The C-Class compact sedan remained basically unchanged since 2001, so a complete overhaul was more than welcome.

The C-Class compact sedan remained basically unchanged since 2001, so a complete overhaul was more than welcome. Traditionally, the German automaker is fairly conservative when designing 4-door models. This time, however, two different fascias and visual packages are available: Avantgarde (Sport Package) and Classic.

I got the opportunity to test-drive the former which, as you can guess, is more aggressively styled and better positioned to take on the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4 and the like. One thing's for sure: the big silver star in the middle of the grille creates the same familiar impression on people. Overall, this car shares many design cues with other members of the Mercedes-Benz lineup, especially the S-Class flagship sedan.

The interior of the C cannot be described as original. Sure, you'll find typical German fit and finish, but the design as a whole looks a bit plain. Amenities are aplenty and ergonomics are great, except for the climate controls which are a tad low and harder to manipulate. The navigation display, on the other hand, is conveniently located and retractable. The stereo and HVAC system are both powerful and quite effective at what they do.

While the seats lack a bit of side support, the driving position is comfortably low and nearly flawless. Front occupants enjoy plenty of room, but those sitting in the back will find less comfort and limited legroom. What's more, this relatively compact sedan does not feature a big trunk. Still, with 475 liters available, you can easily load two golf bags.

The seats lack a bit of side support, the driving position is comfortably low and nearly flawless.

Adequately powered
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 gets a 228-horsepower V6 allowing you to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just under 7 seconds. Engine output and dynamics are virtually beyond reproach. While the 7G-TRONIC autobox offers 7 gears, I found it slow to react at times. That said, shifts are very smooth, which makes the driving experience more pleasant and comfortable.

The C300 gets a 228-horsepower V6 allowing you to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just under 7 seconds.

The suspension of my Avantgarde tester proved slightly firmer than the Classic model's. As a result, ride comfort is affected, especially on Quebec's bumpy roads. On the plus side, the ride is quiet and the cabin remains pretty serene.

Clearly, though, the steering is overly assisted. This results in limited feedback from the road and less fun behind the wheel. The C-Class somewhat makes up for it by adding a sophisticated 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system with 4-ETS. Handling is sharp regardless of road conditions. In fact, last winter, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC was the winner of our AWD sedan comparison test.

The brakes are well calibrated and nicely assisted, making them easy to modulate for quick, efficient stops. The list of safety features is extensive; actually, this Mercedes is among the safest cars in the world. Could it be "too safe"? Granted, engineers did not overlook a single aspect, but the electronic nannies are a bit too intrusive and can't be completely turned off. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP), among others, steps in way too soon and not progressively. As expected, the C-Class comes standard with 6 airbags.

Competition
Rivals are fierce and in large numbers. We're talking about the very best compact sedans on the planet. The C's arch nemesis is the 3-Series which, in 328xi trim ($43,600), delivers superior handling, not to mention 2 additional horsepower. The Audi A4 2.0T quattro is considerably cheaper at $35,350, although the next-generation model has yet to arrive.

With the 4MATIC, handling is sharp regardless of road conditions.

Meanwhile, the Lexus IS 250 AWD ($37,600) neither boasts the same level of quality nor enjoys the same reputation as the C-Class. The Infiniti G35x ($43,540) is one of the most sought-after sedans on the market thanks to its overall homogeneity and all-around performance. The only other serious threat comes from the Cadillac CTS 4 ($41,400), which embodies the true American sports sedan -- good and bad. As for the Volvo S60 2.5T AWD ($45,995) and Saab 9-3 XWD ($46,330), they're both lagging way behind the C-Class.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC truly is a capable machine offering an attractive exterior.

Conclusion
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC truly is a capable machine offering an attractive exterior, an understated interior and great overall quality. Like most vehicles, it does not come without a few disappointments, like intrusive driving aids, but fans will rapidly forget about them.

Despite being freshly redesigned, the C-Class fails to stand up to some competitors in certain key areas. Having said that, premium car buyers will tell you it's a matter of passion and prestige. Plus, the company offers two different visual identities to suit the personality of owners.