What is it?
This is the new Mercedes E-class coupe. After just two iterations, Mercedes has killed off the CLK name, and has resurrected the E-class coupe moniker.
The E-class coupe has been conceived to occupy a larger and more lucrative section of the coupe market than the CLK. As such, it comes as no surprise to discover that it has grown. It’s almost 50mm longer and wider, but 22mm lower. It’s a more grown-up car, underpinned by a brand new chassis that borrows heavily from the E-class rather than from the C-class.
Inside there is a familiar theme, with the angular dashboard, switchgear and associated trims mirroring those of the new E-class saloon. Crucially, though, the thinly padded front seats, with integrated headrests, are unique to the coupe. They’re also mounted a touch lower, providing a more sporting driving position; the comparatively high waistline creates an enclosed feeling.
Safety kit reflects Merc’s determination to lead the class; you get seven airbags, including a knee device for the driver, and a drowsiness detector called Attention Assist. Pedestrian protection is addressed by an impact sensor which lifts the bonnet through a mechanical process, as opposed to the pyrotechnic set-up used by rivals.
The engines are a mix of old and new, but all are mated to BlueEfficiency measures such as brake energy recuperation, a water pump that only operates when required rather than being primed permanently, and low-resistance tyres.
The gearbox choices depend on the engine; we tried the mid-range 3.5-litre V6 petrol motor mated to Merc’s seven-speed 7G-tronic automatic, which gets remote paddles behind the steering wheel. Other engines get a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic.
Full Test: Autocar – Mercedes E-class E350 CGI Coupe
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[Source: GermanCarForum]
