Mercedes E-Class Coupe: Two doors down and full-on style!
Mercedes-Benz recently set out to simplify its range of models to help consumers understand their offering. It seems that many people have had a hard time distinguishing between all their classes of models. With this in mind, the manufacturer introduced the E Coupe, a two-door variant of their E-Class sedan, part of their recently released new generation. In a sense, this vehicle replaces the CLK, which has disappeared from the catalogue. It’s a step back, because it actually used to be called the E-Class Coupe.
Why a coupe?
The AMG version aside, the E-Class sedan simply is not as sporty as the C-Class, though it offers much more space and supreme comfort – and that’s exactly what E-Class buyers are looking for. That said, I must point out that the coupe is radically different from the sedan in terms of style and overall vibe. This is particularly true when the body is all decked out in an extroverted colour, like the "fire opal red" of our test model. This car definitely turns heads, and losing the two back doors has done it a world of good! Sure, in doing so you give up some space and practicality, but it certainly adds appeal for people who value style, passion and emotion.
The Mercedes-Benz E Coupe shares many of its mechanical components with the sedan, but it’s shorter, narrower and its wheelbase is smaller. It’s also lighter, an advantage for sporty performance. Some terrific engines can be found under the hood. The E350 offers a 268-hp 3.5-litre six-cylinder engine coupled with an automatic seven-speed gearbox. (Incidentally, that’s the only transmission available for this line of products.) People who value great performances will be well served by the 5.5-litre V8, which produces 382 horsepower and 391 lbs.-ft. of torque. Given its weight advantage, the E-Class Coupe equipped with the V8 is something of a beast, and according the manufacturer it can do 0-100 km/hr in about 5.6 seconds. Finally, since no AMG version is presently offered, the 518-hp 6.2-litre V8 is reserved for sedan. At least, that’s how it is for now, though I’m willing to bet that Mercedes will rectify this situation soon enough!
AWD unavailable
Another compromise for the E-Class Coupe is that it doesn’t come with AWD. Unfortunately, Mercedes is keeping its 4Matic system for the sedan – this system is even a standard feature on the sedan in Canada. Yes, it’s another compromise, but with modern electronics, you shouldn’t suffer too much when conditions become unfavourable.
Inside, the configuration is very similar to that of the sedan. Naturally, the quality of the materials and the fit and trim is impeccable. The interior exudes luxury, and that’s exactly what buyers expect. The instrument cluster is clear and easy to read, while the controls have been carefully positioned for optimal ergonomics. However, you do have to deal with the multifunction system which allows you to control the different systems with a single dial. The idea behind these systems may make sense in theory, but I’ve never quite been able to understand why you need three or four operations for something as simple as switching from CD to radio. Just imagine figuring out how to adjust the sound parametres!
While the front of the coupe is by and large comparable to the sedan, getting into the back of the E-Class Coupe requires a little more flexibility. Despite the fact that it’s a two-door, access to the back seats is made easier by doors that open extra wide and seats that slide up automatically when tilted forward. And, even better, they return to their initial position when tilted back. Two passengers can get pretty comfortable in the back, particularly if the front passengers give up a little of their personal space. Headroom, however, is especially reduced. There’s also less cargo space than in the sedan (532 litres versus 540), but the difference is not that dramatic.
On the road
When you slide into the E-Class Coupe, you’ll note that the driving position is lower than in the sedan, giving you the impression that you’re behind the wheel of a sportier car. The seats offer great support and, with all the different adjustments you can make plus the telescopic steering column, you can find a very good driving position. You can even adjust the lateral support to keep you firmly in place, regardless of your build. Another strong point is the absence of a B pillar (the one between the front and back side windows), which contributes to excellent visibility.
Our test model was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6, and I must say that it was very well adapted to the vehicle. In my opinion, it’s the better of the two engines available. Lighter and more fuel efficient, the V6 offers plenty of power and dynamic performances. 0-100 km/hr can be reached in about 6.5 seconds, which is more than respectable. The vehicle feels nervous and particularly light. Like many other models, the E-Class Coupe features an electronic accelerator. I’ve oft criticized the sedan for having an unresponsive accelerator, but this problem seems a little less pronounced on the coupe. Press the Sport button on the dash and you get sportier parametres and almost instant responses from the accelerator. This mode will be especially interesting to people who prefer more dynamic driving. Overall, the E-Class offers a good compromise between comfortable and dynamic driving.
There’s no denying that Mercedes has done great work with the E-Class Coupe. It brings together the better aspects of the sedan and adds a much-appreciated touch of style and sport.
