Mercedes' J Ziegier takes award from Amaron's J Gala.

The new baby Benz is a technological tour de force. At launch, Mercedes said the C-class would provide S-class levels of technology in a more affordable package. They were right, but none of us expected it to do the job so convincingly. Though clearly an entry-level Merc, the new C bristles with gadgets that would embarrass many more expensive rivals. The integrated system of electronic driver aids that are all controlled centrally by the engine management system is particularly impressive. Of course, there’s an anti-lock braking system (ABS); but it’s a newer, more advanced system that is faster and more sensitive to wheel lockup. Unlike less sophisticated systems, it can act on wheels individually to maintain steering under heavy braking by releasing brake pressure several times a second.

“ABS, Acce-leration Skid Control, ESP, multistage airbags, ‘smart’ seatbelts: someday all cars will have these.” - Shapur Kotwal

The C-class also features ‘Brake assist’, a system that generates higher braking forces when it senses the driver is making a panic stop. As well as traction control, which prevents the driven wheels from spinning under heavy acceleration, Mercedes fits as standard its ESP or Electronic Stability Program. It uses multiple sensors (including gyros) and individual wheel braking to counteract a skid or compensate for a loss of grip in either axle. Individual wheel braking corrects a skid by pivoting the car around either of the front wheels, thus helping the driver to regain control of the car. Multiple airbags, some of them programmed to inflate according to the severity of the accident, and ‘smart’ seatbelts are just some of the newer safety features. You can also order your C with rain-sensing wipers or climate control system that can be split four ways. It even is among the most aerodynamic or slipperiest cars around. The C-class is more expensive for a reason, and it’s not just the badge.