New Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4

All- New C-Class:The last C-Class came out in 2007 - yes seven years ago! So when the W205 first broke cover, it was naturally like a breath of fresh air. It was in May that we brought you our comprehensive review of the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.  At the time I was impressed with the sheer leap Mercedes-Benz has managed to take with it.

The new C-Class is lighter, lither and more agile. Its also modern, beautiful and yes - it is indeed the Baby S-Class - as its been popularly called all year long. Now it's set for launch in India - which has been pulled ahead from what we initially thought would be January at the earliest. Mercedes-Benz is launching only the C200 petrol variant for starters.

C-Class Vs 3 Series & A4:So now that I have the car here, it was only fitting to pit it against its immediate rivals. Yes the segment has been the traditional battleground of the German foes for long - not just here, but globally - the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and of course the C-Class.

Looks to kill:Now the first thing you notice is that the C-Class looks really new. The A4 still holds its own since Audi defined 'pretty' in this segment long ago, but it looks admittedly sober now. The 3 Series screams sporty and the C-Class does run away with the pageant crown for its sharp character lines, sloping roofline and boot-lid, and the bold face with the organic looking lights.

On the road:We are not testing like-engines here, but rather comparing drive dynamics and overall proposition. Now in this particular segment when it comes to sporty appeal and precise direct driving, the BMW 3 Series has always been the one to lead.

And while this is the C-Class that's come closest, BMW manages to hold on to the crown. The 3 Series' handling is superb, with extra precision and great steering. The C-Class follows and the Audi, while accurate is soft and offers more of a comfort-oriented feel, than a dynamic one. I suspect that will change when the next generation A4 arrives next year. But given that in India, a lot of buyers will prefer to sit in the rear, and that the car does fairly well on bad surfaces or through potholes, the balanced ride feel on the C may appeal the most.

Though the weirdest thing - I wish the steering was smidgen larger, as it feels small by comparison to the other two.

Cabin, confort and conveniences:The Baby S tag means the interiors have to be super-swanky and you won't be disappointed. The C-Class being launched has a plethora of high-end equipment including a Burmester sound system, with 13 speakers, panoramic sunroof, high-grade leather and wood inserts.

I am not sure all of that will make it to the locally assembled version though. It's a bit of an opulent feel you get in this car, with great material quality. The new updated Command infotainment system is easier to use, and comes with a touch pad and has in-built navigation too.

The car's cabin exudes a sense of space which the last C-Class lacked, The seats are comfortable and like the S-Class the C too now boasts ambient lighting options though in just 3 colours - amber, white and blue.