The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupé is actually longer and wider than its predecessor, by 95mm and 40mm respectively, which means it actually has more space for rear passengers than it previously did. But Mercedes is making much play of its claim that the new coupé has less space than it potentially could have, as the priority was to give the car slinky styling, not interior volume.
Job done, it seems from here – unlike the C-Class saloon, which can look a touch awkward from some angles, there doesn’t seem to be a line or sweep out of place here. It’s around 15mm lower to the ground than the saloon, and as standard will come with sports suspension, and the Aromatic air suspension as seen on the saloon will be an option. Standard equipment will also include a panoramic roof, keyless go and LED headlamps.
The engine lineup will basically mirror that of the four door, although Mercedes Ireland has not yet confirmed precisely which engines will be coming here. The expected C220 170hp and C250 204hp diesels will be the core models though, aided by C180 1.6-litre 156hp petrol turbo, C200 2.0-litre 184hp petrol turbo, C250 2.0-litre with 211hp and a C300 2.0-litre turbo with 245hp. A hybrid version will also eventually be offered, as will a C400 V6 petrol, a C300 V6 diesel and, of course, a C63 AMG using the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 from the AMG GT sports car.
This being a Mercedes, it’s positively groaning with safety technology, including Driver Attention Assist (which spots if you’re getting dozy) and Collision Prevention Assist which stops you having a rear-ender as standard. Distronic cruise control will creep you along in traffic as well as maintaining your speed on the motorway, active high-beam block out the dazzling light for oncoming traffic while keeping as much of the main beam lit as possible, while Pre Safe Plus detects if a car is rushing up too fast from behind and can alter the intensity of the hazard flashers to warn them off.
The C-Class coupé will get its pubic debut at the upcoming Frankfurt motor show and will go on sale before Christmas.
