The Mercedes C-Class has filled a significant gap in the stylish, cost effective end of the market and is as an attractive alternative to BMW’s range. Combining sleek looks and quality components, this vehicle comes with all the trimmings of its competitors, while only having a starting price of £19,125.

Holding up the rear are the 1.8litre petrol and 2.0litre diesel engined models, which offer all the pizzazz of their more expensive cousins, but obviously won’t have that extra bite, unless you go for the C200K or the C220CDI. However, the majority of prospective customers would be advised to opt for the 3litre diesel, which pushes out some 224bhp and is sporty, attractive and effective. However, the speed freaks among you would be better choosing the C63, which comes with a rather impressive 6.3litre V8 engine. You can expect to pay at least £50,000 for the privilege of calling one of these your own.

Of course, surface looks are only half the beauty of the C-Class; its majestic road handling is also what will turn heads. What appears to be a regular standard looking saloon shows a completely different side on the open road. Granted, it is not going to live up to the BMW 7 series when it comes to feel and driving comfort, but there are very few cars, if any, in this sector that will make driving such a pleasurable experience.

Passengers, if you haven’t already forgotten about them, will also enjoy the ride, as there is plenty of legroom and comfortable seats in the back. The estate model will easily be able to handle large families with lots of baggage; a 1,500litre boot will swallow almost anything you might try to throw at it. The top-end models, such as the C63, are not going to provide all the comfort of the more family-based editions and could have you calling for a chiropractor after a few hours driving.

The cost-conscious should note that trips to the petrol pump would come around far more frequently than you might like with the bigger engines. If you are a sucker for the Mercedes badge and the sleek style of the C-Class, one of the smaller engines will prove to be much more fuel-efficient. However, over long journeys, one of the V6 diesels would make a chariot fit for a king. Quite simply, this is the coolest looking and roomiest saloon on the road today.