The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been a favorite of entry-level luxury/sport sedan buyers for years. More than just a small sedan with a Mercedes star on it, the C300 provides the core strengths of the brand, such as cutting-edge safety features, lively performance and a feeling of security when behind the wheel. Style plays into the appeal of the small Benz as well, with the C-Class drawing inspiration from its bigger brothers. The crouching stance with its arcing beltline, and the front and rear fascias are instantly recognizable throughout most of the Mercedes family. Invariably, the C-Class is in competition with its cross country rivals, the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. While the 3 Series is the most sporting of the trio and the A4 the more luxury-themed, the Benz offers a little of both personalities, along with superior technology features.

The C300's engine is a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed automatic is standard on the C300 Luxury. I tested a car equipped with the optional all-wheel-drive system known as 4Matic which is a must for Colorado drivers. If you want the ultimate C-Class, get the C63 AMG, a high-performance sports edition with a 6.3-liter V8 under the hood. Sending 451 hp and 443 lb-ft to the rear-wheels via a seven-speed automatic, the C63 is one truly wild machine that accelerates to 60 mph in a lightning-quick 4.4 seconds. That's the commercial where you see them lighting up the tires and getting the car sideways. The C63 AMG is an absurdly powerful small sedan that can keep up with the vaunted M3.

The more distinct Luxury trim should help attract a wider array of new and traditional buyers, and the interior is now fully up to date in terms of features and design. While the C300 ($48,230) as mine was well equipped, may be a tad too expensive given its size, power and equipment level, there's no denying the attraction of this refined, luxurious Benz. Those considering this generation Mercedes C-Class probably won't regret their purchase, as there should be more than enough performance and luxury to satisfy them. Mercedes is getting competition, particularly from Japan, offerering roomier, less costly alternatives that equal or better this C-Class in performance and features, although certainly not status.

Denis & his wife own the Mountain Man store and Evergreen Gift Baskets in downtown Evergreen