Mercedes goes V8

The move to V8 engines for small high-performance European sedans seems to be gaining momentum. Audi has just introduced the V8 S4 and Benz will follow soon with its C55AMG. BMW's M3 also goes V8 next model.

The C55AMG has a 5.5-litre, naturally-aspirated V8 shoehorned under the bonnet.

This is the first V8 C-Class and represents quite a shift in thinking for Benz which used supercharged V6s in its previous high-performance small sedans.

The 55 has a sequential five-speed automatic transmission and drives through the rear wheels.

It accelerates from 0-100kmh in 5.2 seconds but the real treat is roll-on acceleration which is blink-of-the-eye stuff.

It rolls on a set of 18in wheels with gumball low-profile tyres.

Inside you can't ignore the superb sound system and other goodies. The seats have large side bolsters for lateral grip and pretty well everything is electrically operated.

On a searching high speed blast, three things were driven home emphatically; the don't-mess-with-me acceleration, the sophisticated ride and handling that sticks to the road but retains plenty of comfort and the raunchy exhaust note.

A manual would be fun but there is so much giddy-up in the auto it doesn't matter.

Of course, electronic modulations control virtually every dynamic area of the car but most can be switched off, besides they have high thresholds so aren't too intrusive.

It will sell here for around $150,000 putting it in direct competition with the M3 and S4.

It arrives in September.