Thank you for the engaging review. I possess a similar vehicle (2012 W204) equipped with the M276 3.5-liter petrol engine. The positive aspects align with your report, except the engine operates even more quietly throughout cruising; I conducted a direct comparison with the CDI before to purchasing the vehicle new.
I possess the dynamic handling package, but I only use it while exerting maximum performance on rural roads, as the regular handling is already exceptional. I do not perceive the stock setup to be harsh at all with the 18-inch rims. Different tires may be required. I have utilised several various tires since acquiring the car new. The Pirelli All Season tires now fitted are exceptionally quiet.
The comfort ventilated seats, as opposed to the normal sports seats, are exceptionally comfy. Regardless of the journey's duration. I have frequently driven over 300 miles continuously without a pause.
Based on my frequent readings, I appear fortunate to not experience any squeaks or rattles within the vehicle. Alternatively, I may be experiencing hearing loss!
I appreciate the dials, especially the well-integrated COMAND system for navigation, radio, and other functions, in contrast to the somewhat haphazard designs of older and later versions.
Fuel usage appears comparable to that of the diesel variant. An indicated >40 mpg is typical throughout a journey, unless I am indulging in the power! However, during a one-mile winter journey to Tesco and back, it struggles to reach 20 mph.
I have scarcely observed any camber sensitivity, both in the UK and in the five European countries where I have driven. I have operated numerous vehicles, hence I am aware of the poor quality of certain models. Aside from rare extreme cambers, I have never needed to exert more than a single finger on the steering wheel of the C350 to maintain a straight trajectory.
I may have simply been fortunate with my current 13-year-old W204. I have not encountered anything I would prefer to substitute it with.