The new E-Class Coupé from Mercedes has been unveiled. Larger than its predecessor, it also promises state-of-the-art technology and the option of semi-autonomous driving.
With full smartphone integration, a 'Widescreen Cockpit' and the latest driver assistance systems it joins the Estate and the All-Terrain in the E-Class line-up. The Coupé is based technically on the Saloon, but has stylish design cues with ‘agile sportiness’ and coupé proportions that include a distinctive front end with low-positioned sports grille, a long bonnet with ‘powerdomes’ and four frameless side windows.
At the rear, flat LED tail lamps, with LED MULTIBEAM headlamps, celebrate the world premiere and include crystal optics creating an appearance ‘reminiscent of the glow of a jet engine’ according to Mercedes.
A choice of ‘powerful and efficient’ petrol and diesel engines are available, all of which are equipped with ECO start/stop and comply with the Euro 6 emissions standard. This includes a new 2.0-litre diesel engine launched in the new E-Class Saloon. The new four-cylinder diesel delivers 194 hp while, in E 220 d guise, returns 71mpg equivalent to CO2 emissions of 106 g/km.
From market launch, there will be an initial choice between one diesel and three petrol engines with a range of outputs from 184 hp to 333 hp, with further engine variants and 4MATIC versions to follow.
On the inside two optionally available high-resolution 12.3-inch displays are merged under a single lens to produce a ‘floating’ Widescreen Cockpit effect. This emphasises the width, alongside the fascia-spanning trim, which is finished with a ‘dynamic sweep’ in the door panel. Positioned in the driver’s direct field of vision, the cluster shows virtual instruments, which can be selected by the driver in three different styles, “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive”, depending on which information and views the driver chooses.
The entry-level model combines two round dials and a 7-inch colour display cluster with a central display featuring an 8.4-inch screen diagonal. The round dials, instrument cluster and central display are installed in a single frame with a high-gloss piano-lacquer look.
Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel enable the driver to control the instrument cluster and multimedia system using finger swipes, without having to take their hands off the wheel. The E-Class Coupé is also available with a touchpad in the centre console, which can recognise handwriting, plus there is a LINGUATRONIC voice control system. There are also direct-access buttons for controlling the air conditioning, for example, and for convenient activation and deactivation of certain driver assistance systems.
The new Coupé is described as more intelligent than its predecessor and comes with all the features of the E-Class executive saloon. Active Brake Assist comes as standard, which can autonomously apply the brakes. In addition to slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles, it can also detect pedestrians crossing in the danger zone ahead of the vehicle. Other features include ‘DRIVE PILOT’ - which represents Mercedes's next step along the road to autonomous driving - as Distance Pilot DISTRONIC is not only able to keep the car at the correct distance behind vehicles in front on all types of road, but, for the first time, it can also automatically follow them at a speed of up to 130 mph.
Remote Parking Pilot is also new: for the first time, this system allows the vehicle to be moved into and out of garages and parking spaces remotely using a smartphone app, enabling the occupants to get into and out of the car easily, even where space is very tight.
An AMG Line will also be available as an option, which adds AMG bodystyling and larger AMG wheels. The pins in the diamond radiator grille are chrome-plated, while the brake discs on the front axle are perforated. The AMG Line interior features seats finished in ARTICO/DINAMICA in black with grey contrasting topstitching; the Seat Comfort package; and an AMG leather sports steering wheel. A Night package is optionally available on the E-Class Coupé, including design details in high-gloss black and tinted windows.
UK pricing and specification will be announced later this month, with first deliveries arriving April 2017.