The 2001 Mercedes C Class / Who says compact sedans have to be compact? -With the compact sedan market becoming more competitive every year, new and revolutionary innovations are needed in order to get a second look. ThereÕs no surprise that the 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sets new trends as the leader in the luxury compact segment. Arriving in September, the new C-Class, resembling a scaled down S-Class, will be the entry-level sedan for the US. Shortly following early next year will be a three-door hatchback version (thatÕs right, a Mercedes hatchback), and a wagon model. Expect a potent AMG version, along with redesigned SLK and CLK models based on the new platform. Us Yankees will have two engine options: a 2.6-liter V-6 producing an ample 168 horsepower, and a powerful 3.2-liter V-6 producing a more than adequate 215 ponies. The latter will be only available with a five-speed automatic, and the former would be routed through either the five-speed auto, or a delicious six-speed manual. Dare I ask our friends at Stuggart to fit the AMG version with the latter engine and the six-speed; we should be so lucky.

With the compact sedan market becoming more competitive every year, new and revolutionary innovations are needed in order to get a second look. ThereÕs no surprise that the 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sets new trends as the leader in the luxury compact segment.

Arriving in September, the new C-Class, resembling a scaled down S-Class, will be the entry-level sedan for the US. Shortly following early next year will be a three-door hatchback version (thatÕs right, a Mercedes hatchback), and a wagon model. Expect a potent AMG version, along with redesigned SLK and CLK models based on the new platform.

Us Yankees will have two engine options: a 2.6-liter V-6 producing an ample 168 horsepower, and a powerful 3.2-liter V-6 producing a more than adequate 215 ponies. The latter will be only available with a five-speed automatic, and the former would be routed through either the five-speed auto, or a delicious six-speed manual. Dare I ask our friends at Stuggart to fit the AMG version with the latter engine and the six-speed; we should be so lucky . . .

Mercedes will equip this baby S with all the usual MB goodies. MercedesÕ wonderful Brake Assist, a stability system; TeleAid, an emergency communications system; front, side, and side curtain airbags just to name a few. Leather seats and wonderful wood trim accent the luxurious exterior, with four wheel ABS insure a safe and quick stop. Trunk space is more than adequate, while rear-seat room will keep a smile on six-footerÕs face, even on the longer hauls. With more room than most compactÕs, the new C-Class is within an inch of the model it replaces, however Mercedes is confident this beautiful baby wonÕt steal sales from the larger E-Class, which is do for a re-vamp in 2002l!

The drive is expected to be sporty and stern. A more rigid frame and increased aerodynamics aid in it's Ôsports-sedanÕ branding. A tight-tuned suspension and supportive bucket seats will make the turns fun, while a redline of over 6000 rpm give this car plenty of get up and go. A quick stomp on the gas sends a rush of power to the rear wheels, and the 3200 pound boomer is gone in a flash. An impressive 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway fuel rating is friendly on the wallet, while the Ôsport or winterÕ traction option customizes to the driver.

A redesigned instrument panel, modeled after the new S, provides excellent readability and usefulness. Radio and climate controls are familiar, effective, and easy to use; however a six-speed gearbox in a Mercedes might take some getting used to.

Some inside news form Mercedes: a possible all-wheel drive version might hit the US shores, similar to that of Audi's Quattro. This is strictly off the record, but Mercedes is confident an all-wheel version will stake a nice claim in this market. Expect prices to start at $29,500 for the hatchback, and up to $40,000 for the all-wheel drive wagon. AZ/AutoNetDirect.com