Engaging yet refined handling, smooth ride, good fuel efficiency, superb visibility. Lift the hood of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 and you'll find a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that produces 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers crisp acceleration that meets every challenge we throw its way, easily powering us up steep canyon roads and providing the quick burst of speed needed for effortless merging from freeway on-ramps. These days, many of the choices in the entry-level segment of the premium-car market prove that luxury and fuel efficiency can be a natural fit. This Mercedes is in step with that zeitgeist, an EPA rating of 21 city/31 highway mpg and 25 mpg combined makes the C250 reasonably considerate at the pump. We observed 25 mpg in just over 500 miles of combined city and highway driving. Ride quality is one of the C250's key strengths. German cars are often touted for their ability to travel with a sense of serenity and solidity, and the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 is evidence that this reputation is well deserved. The car's suspension deftly tunes out surface unpleasantness, while at the same time managing to preserve an open conversation with the road. Those seated in the front row enjoy seats that are supportive without being stifling. The bolsters are gentler than those seen in some rivals, providing a comfortable perch even for those with wider frames, while at the same time managing to keep bodies in place while cornering. Legroom is generous enough to be comfortable and is on par with that of others in this class, but taller drivers should know that headroom comes up a bit short relative to that offered by the competition. A quiet cabin is one of the perks of C250 ownership. Both on surface streets and on the highway, the cabin remains as still as a Buddhist monastery, with little to report by way of wind, road and tire noise. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 is an ideal match for drivers who want an entry-level premium car that emphasizes comfort and luxury. With its easy driving dynamics and superlative outward visibility, it's perhaps the most accommodating and cooperative car in its segment. However, if assertive sheet metal and sporty handling top your list of priorities, picks like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series make a better fit.