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Highlight: The 2015 C400 4Matic Sport sedan with the 329-horsepower engine is replaced by this year’s C450 AMG, which is powered-by a 362-horsepower engine.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $60,920 (base C300 $39,875)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; an electronic brake hold system; a tire pressure monitoring system; collision preventive assist system; crosswind assist system; LED running lights (and tail lamps); electronic stability control; a rain sensing wiper system; and a tire pressure monitoring system.

 Standard Equipment (Base Model): 17-inch wheels; a 7-speed automatic transmission; a start/stop fuel saver ignition system; power driver’s seat with memory; a push-button keyless entry ignition system; a dual zone automatic climate control system; a keyless entry system; a touch pad controller; power folding side mirrors; and a 3-spoke steering wheel.

Standard Features on C450 AMG: 18-inch wheel; all-wheel drive; an AMG enhanced 6-cylinder engine; 362-horsepower; satellite radio; a blind spot lane changing system; AMG performance braking system; AMG adaptive sport suspension system; exclusive front axle and wider track; a multi-stage electronic stability program; brushed aluminum sport pedals; AMG sport carbon fiber interior; leather seats; an AMG sport steering wheel with flat bottom; a Burmester Premium sound system; satellite radio; sport seats; sport pedals; a keyless go system; a 7-speed AMG automatic transmission; Diamond-block grille; and red seat belts.

Optional Features On Test Vehicle: 19-inch wheels; a driver assistance package, which includes safe braking with pedestrian recognition, a lane keep assist system, a traffic sign assist system and a steering wheel assistance system; an electronic trunk closer; a multimedia package, which consists of a rearview camera and a navigation system; AMG performance front seats; natural grain black ash wood trim; and heated front seats.

 Other Trim Level:

 C300 4Matic

AMG C63

 Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: AM/FM/HD

 Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

 iPod connectivity: Yes

 Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter turbo, 4-cylinder/241-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

 Standard Fuel Mileage:

24-city/34-hwy

What’s New: The AMG Series is added to the C-Class line up for 2016.

Pros: The all-new C450 AMG is arguably one of the best entry-level performance sedans that have landed in our hands this model year. From the standard red seat belts to the optional form-fitting sport front seats to the precision-tuned ride to the easy-to-use infotainment system, the engineering and design team of Mercedes-Benz has definitely earned its keep with this vehicle.

The new C450 AMG 4MATIC 3.0-liter engine is powered by a super crisp 362-horsepower twin turbo engine. Mercedes-Benz’s engineering team has managed to give us the agility and sportiness one would expect from the two-door, 8-cylinder AMG C63, but at lower price point. Not only is the C450 AMG 4MATIC more affordable, more fuel efficient, its roomier, too, as a result of the two additional doors. In fact, the vehicle includes an engine start-stop function to reduce fuel consumption, while idling at a traffic light.

The throttle response of the sports sedan can be altered by changing from Eco to Sport Plus modes which alters the sound pitch of the vehicle. Sports performance can be accessorized with such features as 19-inch wheels, a rear view camera and a navigation system.

Cons: While the understated styling of the C450 AMG is somewhat conservative, there is no denying the vehicle mimics the larger flagship vehicle, which rides on a longer wheel base.

From the naked eye alone, many folks may not be able to justify the $60,000 price. A panoramic roof, a navigation system, a rearview camera and a manual transmission should be standard, right? Nope. All but the manual transmission are add-on options.

Verdict: While the base C450 AMG is close to $12,000 more than the base price of the standard C-Class, it’s well worth the investment. The C450 AMG is a well-executed precision machine that incorporates the best of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering, while offering a ride and handling experience that makes the vehicle great for long-term or short-term commutes. Additionally, the vehicle incorporates the right mix of technology and thoughtful luxury touches without being intimidating.

Competition: Audi S4, BMW M3 and Cadillac ATS-V

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Jeff Fortson is an auto analyst and editor of a car-buying website for women and minorities. To learn more about his popular car-buying workshop and/or to price a new-vehicle, drive on over to www.JeffCars.com. Follow Jeff on Twitter/JeffCars.

 

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