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Mercedes C-class Coupé and Cabriolet

Revised designs and new engine options

- Darren Moss Darren.moss@haymarket.com

HOT ON THE heels of the updated C-class saloon and estate come these similarly revised coupé and cabriolet models.

Both existing versions get four stars in our reviews, but these upgrades are intended to keep them competitiv­e against rivals such as the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series.

Like their siblings, the two-door C-class models get new bumpers with standard LED lights, while inside, there are more colours and trims on offer and the option of a 12.3in digital instrument display. Plus, the cabriolet’s roof can now also be folded up and down from outside the car.

The C220d diesel ditches the previous 168bhp 2.1-litre four-cylinder engine for a 191bhp 2.0-litre unit, while the Mercedes-amg C43 performanc­e variant now wrings an extra 23bhp out of its 3.0-litre petrol V6.this takes it to 386bhp – enough to propel the car from 0-62mph in 4.7sec.

In addition, a new mild hybrid powertrain (in which energy harvested under braking is used to give the engine a boost when accelerati­ng) is being introduced as the entry-level option across the C-class line-up.

Badged as the C200 EQ Boost, this has a 181bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine with an additional 14bhp available for short periods.a 48V electrical system also allows the engine to ‘coast’ on electric power, improving fuel economy – a feature also available on the new Audi A6.A nine-speed automatic gearbox will be standard.

A more powerful mild hybrid model, expected to be badged C300 EQ Boost and using a 2.0-litre engine, is planned, too.

Mercedes hasn’t yet revealed pricing, but increases of about £1000 are expected for both models.this would put the coupé near £34,000 and the cabriolet at around £37,000.

 ??  ?? Update brings new front and rear bumper designs
Update brings new front and rear bumper designs

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