Used Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate 2007 - 2011 review

For style and space, the Mercedes C-Class is hard to beat. It's got an excellent reputation and is one of the best used estates available.

C-Class estates have always made great load-luggers, and this one is no exception. The boot space is one of the biggest in its class (beating that in the BMW 3 Series) and with the rear seats down stretches to 1500 litres. However, the boot floor isn't completely flat. The C-Class's cabin is big enough to carry four adults in comfort, although the fifth seat in the middle back is best for children only.

It's a step forward in build quality, refinement and drive when compared with the older C-Class, yet can't quite get to grips with the BMW 3 Series, which just edges it out. The quality of the materials used is up to scratch, with soft touch plastics and a clutter-free dash, and the driving position is fully adjustable. Passengers are sheltered from engine noise, and wind noise isn't intrusive, but there is some road noise if you're driving on poorly surfaced roads.

All cars come with the Agility Control suspension system, which adjusts the suspension according to the road conditions, and some models come with the clever Pre-safe safety system to help protect occupants in the event of a crash.

The smaller supercharged petrols give an average of between 39.8mpg and 38.7mpg. However, the V6 models are noticeably worse, ranging from 30.4mpg down to 28.5mpg. Diesels fare far better, starting at 49.6mpg and dropping to a respectable 38.7mpg for the most powerful. The C02 emissions from the diesels are also better, especially the smallest engine which emits 149g/km.

In early 2008 Mercedes released the Blue-efficiency versions of the smallest petrol and diesel engines. These noticeably improved fuel economy, with the C180K giving 42.8mpg and the C200 CDI 55.4mpg. CO2 emissions were also improved. These cars are worth looking for, but attract a premium.

Servicing costs for this type of car are never going to be cheap, but the C-Class is on a par with other compact executives.

The SE and Elegance models are more in the traditional Merc mould, with a three-pointed star on the bonnet and comfort-orientated suspension settings. Sport cars are more contemporary C-Class, with an aggressive air, lowered and stiffer suspension settings and the Mercedes badge set into the radiator grille. Sport cars are more agile but not overly firm, while SE and Elegance models are smoother, but with some body roll.

The entry-level SE trim gets alloys, climate, Bluetooth, electrically adjustable seats and MP3 input, while Elegance ups the ambience with wood trim, chrome and auto wipers. Sat nav wasn't standard on any model, along with leather, so look out for cars with these desirable options.

Petrol engine options range from supercharged 1.8-litres (154bhp or 182bhp), to V6s of 2.5-, 3.0- and 3.5-litres (204bhp, 231bhp and 272bhp respectively). There are three CDI diesels - 134bhp and 168bhp 2.1-litres (badged C200 and C220), or a 221bhp 3.0 (C320). All are up to the job, but the C220 CDI strikes the best balance between performance and affordability, and enjoys better resale values.

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