Well the W204 C230 v6 is greatly improved over the W203 230 V6 I drove a while back. Although on paper they seem to share the same engine and 7G tranny, the low end torque of the W204 v6 is much stronger. Also the engine note is fiercer past 4.5k rpms and actually sounds pretty exciting unlike the W203 v6 which was more sedate and civilized. Based on paper the W203 V6 peak torque comes in at ~3500 rpms. For the W204 although same engine and tranny it peaks at 2900 just 150rpm higher than the N52 on the 325i (it also peaks lower compared to the 323i N52). So I was pleasantly surprised. Brakes feel as good as the BMW and much improved over the W203 although the W203 AG had stunning looking front discs.
Suspension wise, the comfort setting is way to floaty but the sports settings is perfect. Paddleshifters are correct as well + and - on each side ala M DCT config, and the tranny changes pretty fast. Handling of the car through brisk corners was fine as well, composed in Sports mode setting
Steering is the weakest point compared to the E90. Its tuned more to lady drivers than driving enthusiasts. Larger steering, thin diameter, and very light and not so precise. Its more relaxed vs. the hightened sensory feedback from the E90 steering feel.
Another yucky thing is the speedo dial. Not used to the short needle and doesn't arouse the senses to see the needle move. Fit and finish was top notch, no idrive/advanced command APS on the test unit.
W204 C230 is selling like hot cakes. Limited units left of the car before the new C250 4 pot direct charged engine makes it to our shores. Something like 201hp and 350nm torque according to the salesman. The V6 is being phased out.
Overall I thought the W204 230 v6 to be a decently exciting car to drive when pushed, on Sports setting, and Manual paddle shift mode. Sounds quite nice like an arcade game as well when you are revving it up. It offers about 75-80% of the driving excitement of the E90 325i when pushed in sports mode. I much prefer the interior design of the W204 and fit and finish. Shape as well my vote is for the W204 as its newer design and not so dated. Love the flared arches and the big bling bling front grille

. Comfort and as a daily driver putzing around town it seems less stressful and more relaxed and feels more classy/expensive inside due to the dash instrumentation layout. So the E90 325i sports looses out in this area to the C class. Overall a very nice car to own and have as a daily driver esp in white.