New-look Merc C-class coupe
Traditional 2+ 2 takes on BMW 4- series when sales star t in December this year — with prices to match
That face is really becoming too familiar ...
Yeah, you could even mistake it for an A-class or CLA when actually this is the all-new C-class Coupe, which makes its world premiere at the Frankfurt motor show next month.
Those familiar LED headlamps, diamond-like front grille and slim rear lights are design themes shared with C-class saloon and estate models, as well as the GLC SUV that’s largely based on the C-class, too.
That’s why the interior of the C-class Coupe is really becoming too familiar. The common bits are quite logical because they help reduce costs and increase family bond between various models.
Is the Coupe bigger than the saloon?
Yes it is, so that the two-door C-class can live up to its Coupe bill by taking four people in decent comfort — just like the Audi A5, BMW 4-series and Lexus RC competitors.
Compared to the saloon, the C-class Coupe has 80mm longer wheelbase, while it is 95mm longer in overall length and 40mm wider. Mercedes says such dimensions deliver a truly sporty intent on the road.
The C-class Coupe will be unique in its class whereby air suspension will be offered as an option. The standard steel sprung suspension is said to be 15mm lower than in the saloon.
What about the engines?
Most of them are the existing units. Petrol versions include 156hp C180, 184hp C200 and 211hp C250. Despite being based on the 2.0-litre petrol-turbo engine of the C200 and C250, the new C300 produces a higher 245hp.
On the diesel front, there are just two initially: 170hp C220d and 204hp C250d.
Depending on model, automatic transmissions include 7 or 9-speed.
Although not official yet, higher performance variants are expected to include the C450 AMG Sport using 367hp 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 and fullblooded C63 AMG S utilising 510hp 4.0litre twin-turbo V8, the latter taking on the RS5, M4 and RC-F opponents.
When can I get one?
Most likely at the end of the year, with a possible chance to see one in metal at the 2015 Motor Expo alongside the GLC and GLE (the facelifted M-class) SUVs.
Prices of the C-class Coupe are expected to be competitive against the 4-series, in particular.
While the C200 and C250 (with varying trims like AMG Line, as such) would target the 420i at 3.5 to 4 million baht, the C180 might be used to target buyers who don’t need performance. Today’s C180 went for 2.99 million baht.
The C300, meanwhile, can only come competitively next year to rival the 428i when a CO2-based tax system comes into effect.