Today, I would like to bring up a trend in German cars that I have not seen in the American or Japanese brands. The Germans are focusing on coupes or sedans that appear to be styled like a coupe. Coupe sales have dropped significantly over the last ten years. Mercedes has replaced the CLK coupe with the E-class coupe for 2010. The CLK was based on the C-class and the new E-class couple is a blend of C-class and E-class components.
A full-length moonroof will be standard, if you want more of an open air motoring experience the E-class convertible will be introduced as a 2011 model.
The new coupe will also follow a similar powertrain program as the current CLK, with the current 268 hp., 3.5 liter V-6 as the base motor and the 382 hp., 5.5-liter V-8 as the upgrade. Each motor will be attached to a new seven speed automatic transmission. Standard on all coupes is a variable-damping “Agility Control” suspension, which has not been explained how it works. I would suspect that it similar to GM magnetic ride control which controls the pressure in the shocks depending on driving conditions. There are no immediate plans for an all-wheel-drive model to compete with the Audi A5.
It is anticipated that Mercedes will manufacture an AMG version powered by the fabulous 6.2-liter V-8, which should have about 507 hp.
The E-class coupe has all the safety features of the E-class sedan. An interesting feature is the PRE-SAFE system...which attempts to reduce the severity of crashes by applying the brakes and tightening the seat belts when a collision is imminent. The E-class also has a new monitoring system, called Attention Assist, which tries to alert the driver if it detects that the driver is sleepy. The E-class coupe made its North American debut at this April’s 2009 New York auto show. My take on the E-class coupe is that Mercedes has decided to make attractively styled cars. I would recommend that you put it on your shopping list.
Hi Pete .. looks good! I might add a red one to my fleet!!
ReplyDeleteMercs are very safety conscious I think?
They've always had a good record & feedback from drivers ..
In Africa & I expect in Australia .. people bought Mercs because they'd last and last .. & they did!
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters
Hi Hilary,
ReplyDeleteYour right on the safety issue! Mercedes have an excellent safety record...they equip their cars with the lastest safety advances.
Mercedes do last for the long haul! The diesel versions will last for up to one million miles.
This is the first e-class that I have been excited about the styling! Thanks for the great comments!
Pete Baca
The Car Enthusiast Online
Bluetec is the future of diesel engine technology.
ReplyDeleteThe E-Coupe model gives a tremendous look to the customer. This popular model has also been launched in India with affordable price. Mostly its interior look is awesome. Another production S-Class is not bad from Mercedes. I like both.
ReplyDelete