Mercedes-Benz has finally lifted the wraps off its upcoming C-Class Coupé – a model with which the Stuttgart firm hopes to lure younger buyers seeking something easy on the eye and dynamic with a frugal nature.
The current iteration of the C-Class saloon has gained favour with those seeking an elegant and capable mode of entry-level executive transit, but its styling could not really be described as arresting. Sitting one-and-a-half inches lower than the saloon, the new Coupé has a sporty stance that sits well with a dramatically-upswept beltline that accentuates the strong character line running along the flanks and that rakishly-curved roof. The only aspect that traditional Mercedes coupé fans may bemoan is the addition of a B-pillar as a concession to structural rigidity. The nose sports updated headlamps, a mildly-tweaked grille and restyled front air dam while the rear plays host to a sportier-looking valance and tail lamps with LED elements.
Much like the recently-revealed facelifted C-Class saloon, the Coupé’s cabin features a tiered facia similar to that of the current E- and CLS-Class models. Features specifically earmarked for this model include a flat-bottomed steering wheel, metallic trim accents and aluminium trim panels – more traditional Burr Walnut and the rather odd-sounding Ash Olive Matte can also be specified. This model will also be offered with a recently-upgraded version of Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment module with such features as internet connectivity via the driver’s compatible smartphone and, where market and internet connectivity permitting, compatibility with Google Maps route guides transferred from the owners PC to their car. Among the optional extras on offer are a Harman/Kardon audio system and heated front seats.
Mercedes has not yet confirmed the engine line-up for markets outside the United States, where a brace of petrol units (turbocharged 1,8-litre four-pot with 150 kW/310 N.m on tap and a 3,5-litre V6 developing 225 kW/370 N.m) and a pair of turbodiesels (1,8- and 2,1-litre units) will be offered. All units will be mated with a 7-speed 7 G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.
All of the engines benefit from Mercedes’ BlueEfficiency range of fuel saving/emissions reduction technologies, which include direct fuel-injection and start/stop technology. In the case of the range-topping V6, Mercedes claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 6,0 litres/100 km while the most efficient of the bunch (the 1,8-litre C220 CDI) returns around 4,5 litres/100 km and carbon-dioxide figures of just 117 g/km.
The Coupé’s frugality is tempered with an air of sportiness thanks to the standard fitment of Mercedes’ Agility Control suspension set-up. This system utilises an amplitude-dependent damping system that firms up or softens the ride according the driving situation. This system is augmented by a rack-and-pinion steering system with speed-sensitive ratios and variable centring.
To read the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé press release, click on the documents tab and download the attached article.