Mercedes-Benz C 230 Avantgarde (Old)

Like all Mercs, the new C230 puts a layer of insulation between you and the road. The ride on its amplitude-dependent, automatically-adjusting shock absorbers is very comfortable. Silent as a tomb inside, it soaks up even expansion joints on this concrete road with complete nonchalance. But it’s not the most comfortable car to push on in when the conditions call for almost an amphibious assault, like we’re attempting.

The steering is disconcertingly light and distributes very little feel, and though the fundamental handling and dynamics are as good as any car here, nudging serious speeds in these conditions gets a bit nerve-wracking. The Merc enjoys a good thrash-about too and handling is benign and spot-on, the C-Class displaying almost perfect balance.