The C-Class SE’s nose bears the traditional hallmarks of a
Mercedes-Benz: a chromed grille with laurel wreath badge and a three-pointed star that sits proudly on the bonnet. There’s also chrome around the top edge of the side windows. Three black louvres, meanwhile, help to emphasise the front air intakes, and the front fog lamp surrounds, too, are in black.

The theme continues at the rear, where the wide boot lid handle is finished in matt black. Equally attractive are the alloy wheels fitted as standard on all models.

The cabin has a similarly refined style. Its cross-stitched seats come with Brighton cloth trim – in either black, reef grey, black/beige or black/red – or optional Artico man-made leather substitute. There’s also fine chrome detailing and subtle high-gloss black trim, with burr walnut wood trim available as an option.

The standard equipment includes the Audio 20 radio/single CD, automatic climate control, a leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel and leather trim for the gearshift lever.