Used Mercedes C-Class from 16k

* Great used examples of the Mercedes C-Class * A variety of models from efficient diesels to the 6.2-litre V8 * What Car?'s Approved Used scheme offers peace of mind...

Used Mercedes C-Class from 16k

The 2014 Mercedes C-Class has been revealed, ahead of its official motor show debut in Detroit in January. The outgoing car has been popular with buyers since it was launched 20 years ago, and in 2012 it was one of the top 10 best-selling cars in the UK.

The previous C-Class wasn't the class leader, but it can still prove to be a powerful, comfortable and well-equipped car if you choose wisely.

More than 500 used examples of the Mercedes C-Class are listed in the What Car? Approved Used classifieds. Here's our pick of the bunch:

Mercedes C180 CGI Executive SE - £16,800

Private buyers who don't want to spend too much on a used C-Class should go for this entry-level 1.6-litre petrol. It's not especially brisk or good to drive, but being in Executive SE spec does at least mean that it should ride comfortably enough. This 2012, 12-plate car with 11,000 miles on the clock is listed at £16,800.

Mercedes C220 CDI Sport - £18,490

One of the most efficient used examples of the Mercedes C-Class is this C220 CDI model, which averages 56.5mpg. This car is a well-equipped Sport model, with plenty of toys including sat-nav, park assist and automatic headlights. It's on a 61-plate with 17,339 miles on the clock, and is priced at £18,490.

Mercedes C350 CDI Elegance - £22,995

Elegance trim was discontinued in the outgoing C-Class, which makes this find even sweeter. More recent C350 CDI models will have the firmer sports suspension as standard, but in this spec it's a far more supple car. Price aside, this V6 diesel was also our favourite engine - it's pricier to run, but much more refined. This 2012, 12-plate car has covered just 9295 miles and is on sale for £22,995.

Mercedes C63 AMG Edition 125 - £38,190

The four-cylinder petrols sound breathless and the diesels are clattery, but the most exciting engine in the outgoing C-Class is the 6.2-litre V8 installed in the C63 AMG. With 457bhp on tap, performance is staggering - 0-62mph takes 4.5 seconds. We wouldn't expect to see anywhere near the official 23.5mpg, though. This 2011, 61-plate car is being sold for £38,190, which is around £20k less than you'd have paid for a new one.

Visit the What Car? Approved Used cars finder to uncover hundreds of other great second-hand cars from Trusted Dealers.

By Ed Callow