Mercedes-Benz South Africa has added its frugal new 2,2-litre direct injection turbocharged engine to the E-Class Cabriolet and Coupé – models that have previously only been available with a 3,5-litre V6 and a 5,5-litre V8.
The 2,2-litre engine develops 150 kW and 310 N.m of torque and drives the rear wheels via Mercedes-Benz’s well known five-speed automatic transmission. Being a BlueEfficiency unit, fuel consumption is one of this new engine’s best features. According to Mercedes-Benz it will only consume around 7,2 litres/100 km (185 g/km of CO2) on the combined cycle.
Mercedes-Benz has developed both of these cars with a balance of comfort and dynamic agility in mind. To achieve this, the company’s agility control system with adaptive dampers is fitted as standard. Buyers seeking an even more sports-orientated handling set-up can also specify the agility control sports suspension, which can be further augmented by a dynamic handling package comprising an electronically controlled damping system.
Further options include blind spot assist, bi-xenon headlights with variable light distribution and adaptive high beam assist. Another optional safety and comfort feature is Distronic Plus – a radar-assisted cruise control system system that helps maintain a safe distance from moving traffic in front of the car.
Unfortunately Mercedes does not offer an AMG model in either Coupe or Cabriolet guises, but buyers can still opt for an AMG sports package comprising 18 inch wheels, AMG drilled front brake discs and an AMG body kit, along with with sports suspension. In terms of interior appointments, the AMG package introduces multi-contour seats, stainless steel pedals and a sporty AMG steering wheel.
The E250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé costs R607 130 and the Cabriolet R686 600 – both prices include CO2 tax.
