With an astonishing Cd figure of 0.24 for the best model in the range, the freshly unveiled Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé is claimed to be the world's most aerodynamically efficient series-production car. Based on the styling of the new saloon launched in Detroit, the new Coupé replaces the familiar old CLK. Early reaction to the sleek, elegant look of the new two-door design, with its fully retractable side windows and absence of B-pillars, has been extremely positive.

The combination of reduced drag, low rolling-resistance tyres and more efficient engines has achieved significantly better fuel consumption. There are two new four-cylinder engines, consuming up to 17% less fuel than the equivalent old model, yet performance and torque have been improved. Best in this respect is the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé four-cylinder diesel, which has two-stage turbocharging, precise piezo injectors and the latest common-rail technology. Producing 204HP, power is up 36% on the engine it replaces but the provisional combined figure of 53.3mpg is perhaps more impressive. The turbocharged diesel V6 remains in the line-up but power here is up from 224HP to 231HP.

Mercedes-Benz petrol engines for the E-Class Coupé, now with direct-injection technology, include a highly efficient 204HP four-cylinder with CO2 emissions reduced by 13% to 164g/km. The latest six-cylinder and eight-cylinder petrol engines, with similar improvements, produce 292HP and 288HP respectively. Every engine in the new E-Class Coupé range meets the EU5 exhaust emissions standard.

Safety systems newly developed for the E-Class are based on the latest accident research findings and are available in the Coupé as options or, in certain models, as standard equipment. Based on highly sensitive sensors, cameras and radar systems, they enable the Coupé to see and feel critical situations, if necessary acting independently when a serious accident risk arises.

Through the steering, the Mercedes-Benz anti-drowsiness system monitors driving behaviour to reduce the risk of falling asleep at the wheel. This ‘Attention Assist’ system is standard across the range. Also standard are seven airbags, belt tensioners and belt force limiters on all seats, as well as crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger. The combination of such features, claim the makers, means that the new E-Class Coupé offers the most comprehensive array of safety features in its class.

On sale in the UK from June, prices of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé have yet to be announced.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Mercedes-Benz