2005 Mercedes-Benz C320

Just as it was beginning to look dated, the Mercedes-Benz C320 received an updated design in 2005 that resulted in a more distinctive and contemporary appearance. New exterior features included sleeker styling, new headlights and taillights, a new grille with three horizontal chrome bars instead of four, and new alloy wheels. Interior upgrades included a new dash, seats, and trim, as well as an upgraded six-speaker audio system with a CD player (a welcome replacement for the cassette players of previous years).

The C320 wagon was discontinued for 2005, so the C320 was available in a luxury sedan, sport coupe hatchback, and all-wheel-drive 4Matic sedan versions. Power for all models was provided by a 215-horsepower, 3.2-liter V6 engine, which was coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission in the sedans and a six-speed manual in the sport coupe.

The automatic transmission was equipped with the Touch Shift feature, which enabled the driver to upshift and downshift, depending on driving conditions, by nudging the shift lever left or right.

Although it was considered the entry-level vehicle in Mercedes' lineup, the C320 was still considered a luxury vehicle, so it was outfitted accordingly. Standard features included wood interior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, multi-zone climate control, cruise control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, power windows, power heated mirrors, and a Harmon/Kardon audio system, as well as a full complement of airbags.

Other features included anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control.

Drivers who had been less than impressed with the exterior styling of the previous year's C320 were much more complimentary about the 2005 models. Drivers were impressed with the car's tight steering, comfortable seats, and new look, although they thought the instrumentation and electronics could be complicated to operate.