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Mercedes generally lacks the youthful go-getting aggressiveness that both blesses and curses BMW - ageing MDs drive Mercs, not the south-eastern regional manager - though it's not been an issue because playing the conservative grown-up card has brought rich sales rewards.
However, when, according to the Mercedes' own sales figures, the BMW 3-series consistently outsells its C-class by a ratio of two-to-one, it's time for a rethink.
The result is that Merc's compact exec has gone all sport saloon on us. Where in the past it did elegant, it now looks muscular. And if you opt for the Sport model you even lose the silver-plated grill-mounted gunsight - swapped for a three-bar coupe snout.
The base SE and high-spec Elegance are more traditional fares; until you hit the road. Compared to the previous version the small Merc is remarkably balanced. Even on the SE's smallest 16-inch wheels there is plenty of grip, and handling is no longer outclassed by the opposition. The ride is firm but forgiving and for most part well controlled thanks to dampers that adapt to fast B-road driving. Unfortunately, though, the steering feels remote off-centre, and too light and devoid of feel everywhere else.
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