Raked and trim

Jack Evans belts up for a test drive in the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe

Here’s the latest car to slot into Mercedes’ everexpanding line-up – the E-Class Coupe. Coming as a smaller version of the decadent S-Class Coupe but larger than the C-Class Coupe, it aims to give drivers all the luxury associated with the German manufacturer’s highest-specification cars, but with a sleek, raked-back design. The exterior is a real triumph. Pillar-less and raked, there’s just one trim – AMG Line – but that helps to keep things simple. All cars come with large 19-inch alloy wheels plus LED headlights and taillights, which help give the E-Class a distinctive visual appeal. It uses the same infotainment system as the standard saloon, – we loved it in that car and it looks just as good here. However, there are some touches that aren’t included in the E-Class. The vents, for instance, are new and give the interior a bespoke look. As a coupe, you’d expect practicality in the E-Class to be pretty limited. However, those in the back get 74mm more legroom than those in the car it replaces. The boot is a decent size too, and can be expanded thanks to folding rear seats.

The entire cabin has a great sense of space about it. It’s a relaxing place to be, and one that certainly feels worthy of the Mercedes-Benz badge. The 2.0-litre diesel engine under the bonnet is a crucial part of the Mercedes-Benz range, and you can see why. It’s really very refined, and settles down nicely at cruising speeds. A wider rear track than its predecessor does help the E-Class Coupe corner nicely. Prices for the E 220d Coupe start at £40,135. For that, you get parking sensors and a reversing camera, as well as an 8.4-inch infotainment screen with satellite navigation. We’d be inclined to pay £1,495 to upgrade that system to Mercedes’ premium Comand infotainment, which replaces the screen with a large 12.3inch unit. For an additional £495, Mercedes will add a second 12.3-inch display, creating a truly widescreen viewing area. It’s an extra that completely transforms the inside of the car, and one we’d pick in a heartbeat.