New E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet available at dealers starting in June: Passionate driving enjoyment

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With an intelligently modified, distinctive design, a new, high-grade interior, new, efficient engines and new assistance systems, Mercedes-Benz has comprehensively updated the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. In addition, these particularly sportily designed members of the E-Class family have taken a large step forward in terms of lively performance, efficiency and ecology. This is the result, amongst other things, of powerful new BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines employing direct injection technology. The new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet can be ordered with immediate effect, with prices starting at 42,661.50 euros for the Coupé and 47,600 euros for the Cabriolet. They will be available for collection at Mercedes-Benz dealerships from June.

The classic Coupé and the four-seater Cabriolet of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class are amongst the desirable vehicles in their respective segments. Now Mercedes-Benz has completely revised both models. The design of the exterior and interior alike is fresh and sharp. The main feature of the new look E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet is the revised front with new headlamps featuring a single headlamp lens comprising all functional elements. The headlamps are fitted with anti-dazzle LED lights and LED daytime running lamps as standard, with full LED technology now available for the first time in this class as an option. New front bumpers with large air intakes and "wing design" chrome trim considerably accentuate the dynamism of these agile vehicles. Visibly underscoring the rear-wheel drive of these sporty cars is the muscular-looking rear wings which have been retained. Also new are the tail lamps featuring LED fibre optics.

Inside the vehicles, stylish materials dominate alongside clean-cut surfaces and the two-part trim, in wood or aluminium, which stretches across the entire dashboard. The instrument cluster has dials backed in white, while the trapezoid-shaped, high-gloss framed, full-colour display features TFT technology.

High-tech engines: efficiency meets performance

A wide choice of powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines for the Coupé and Cabriolet – all equipped with the ECO start/stop system – ensure outstanding performance combined with exemplary efficiency. New units include the BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines in the E 200 and E 250, featuring the same technology used in the latest six-cylinder engine from Mercedes-Benz. Both of the four-cylinder petrol engines meet the future EU6 standard, while in the Coupé they even comply with the strict criteria of efficiency class A.

The six-cylinder petrol engines in the Coupé and Cabriolet are also state-of-the-art. In the E 400, for the first time the six-cylinder features a biturbo drive and sets new standards in this class for performance and fuel consumption. The efficient four-cylinder diesel engines in the E 220 CDI and E 250 CDI are also more economical, thanks amongst other things to a revised drive train, and are classified in efficiency class A+.

New level of safety with intelligent assistance systems

Both the Coupé and Cabriolet models of the E-Class are fitted as standard with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist. It helps to significantly reduce the risk of a rear-end collision. Also forming part of the standard specification is a further improved ATTENTION ASSIST, which is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range.

In addition, all assistance systems of the E-Class family which are either new or now feature significantly extended functions are also optionally available, for example the new Driving Assistance package Plus.

The new E-Class Cabriolet and Coupé can be ordered with immediate effect. Prices for the individual models have been increased only moderately despite a much larger equipment package. The entry-level price for the new E-Class Coupé is 42,661.50 euros incl. VAT (for the E 200 Coupé). The Cabriolet prices start at 47,600 euros incl. VAT (for the E 200 Cabriolet).

The prices (in Germany, including 19% VAT):
Coupés

Cabriolets

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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A new benchmark: Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG as S-Model and with 4MATIC - performance, dynamism and efficiency

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Performance update for the CLS 63 AMG: along with the new E 63 AMG, the latest model upgrade also benefits the CLS 63 AMG in its Coupé and Shooting Brake variants. The S-Model variant of the CLS 63 AMG not only boasts the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all‑wheel drive but also comes with the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine generating a maximum output of 430 kW (585 hp) and up to 800 Nm of torque. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine continues to be the absolute pinnacle of efficiency: the combination of high performance and low fuel consumption remains unrivalled by any other competitor in the segment worldwide. The rear-wheel-drive variant rated at 410 kW (557 hp) and generating 720 Nm of torque is optionally available with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Mercedes-AMG is also premiering high-performance passenger car models with an all-wheel-drive system geared to driving dynamics. This offers customers even greater scope for individuality and an even broader choice of models. Alongside the successful SUVs – ML 63 AMG, GL 63 AMG, G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG – two passenger car model ranges comprising up to eight unique models with all-wheel drive are now available from Mercedes-AMG in the guise of the E 63 AMG and the CLS 63 AMG. Additional models featuring performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, such as the A 45 AMG and the CLA 45 AMG, will follow this year.

"The S-Models in particular represent the most attractive proposition in the segment," notes Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "With its superlative power and torque ratings and the new performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG is without parallel in its Coupé and Shooting Brake variants. Our AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine in the world. The new, customised model variants provide greater scope than ever for individual solutions."

The world premiere of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake took place at the "Night of the Stars" at the Formula 1 German Grand Prix in July 2012. This unique high-performance vehicle from AMG is a fascinating new embodiment of an innovative vehicle concept. The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake combines performance with style and utility value as a highly appealing alternative for design-oriented automobile enthusiasts. In essence it represents an unprecedented embodiment of a sports car with five seats and a large tailgate.

Overview of the new models for the German market:

Acceleration from a standing start to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds clearly places the CLS 63 AMG S-Model in pole position in the competitive line-up. In addition to the increase in output, this special edge for the S-Model is also attributable in no small part to the performance-oriented all-wheel drive with a power distribution ratio of 33 to 67 percent (front/rear axle). Perfect traction during acceleration effectively avoids slip-induced losses. The top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited).

On the new S-Model the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine generates a maximum output of 430 kW (585 hp) and maximum torque of 800 Nm – representing an increase of 20 kW (28 hp) over the AMG Performance package which was previously available as an option for the Coupé. This enhanced performance and power results from adaptation of the engine application, an increase in peak pressure and a rise in the charge pressure from 0.9 to 1.0 bar. At 410 kW (557 hp) and 720 Nm, the basic model also boasts an increase of 24 kW (32 hp) and 20 Nm over its predecessor.

Despite added power and enhanced performance, all models offer high efficiency, low fuel consumption and low exhaust emissions. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine around – with substantially more cubic capacity than its direct competitors. The CLS 63 AMG rated at 410 kW (557 hp) with rear-wheel drive runs on 9.9 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres in accordance with NEDC (231 grams of CO2). The variant with an output of 410 kW and performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the S-Model rated at 430 kW (585 hp) with all-wheel drive display only marginally higher fuel consumption, at 10.4 to 10.6 litres per 100 km (243 grams to 248 grams of CO2). As an additional boon, following the implementation of internal engine measures all CLS 63 AMGs meet the requirements of the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard which will not enter into force until 2015.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission for personal set-up

Maximum individuality and customised dynamics – these are the special strengths of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The four modes – "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual) – offer the driver a personal set-up. In "C" mode, the ECO start/stop function is active and switches off the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is at a standstill. In addition, the transmission characteristics are tangibly soft, with smooth and early gear changes. Second gear is generally used as the starting gear in this mode.

The engine and transmission are far more agile in "S", "S+" and "M" mode; in addition, the ECO start/stop function is deactivated. Partial suppression of the cylinders proves perfect for an emphatic driving style: briefly and precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts with a more emotional sound than before. An automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the RACE START function are also included as standard with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

Performance-oriented all-wheel drive for the ultimate in dynamism

The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive distributes the engine torque at a ratio of 33 to 67 percent (front/rear axle). The rear-biased power distribution provides for signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment. The 3-stage ESP® has been tailored specifically to the permanent all-wheel drive system. In "SPORT Handling" mode, the Torque Vectoring Brake performs selective braking intervention on individual wheels in the interests of high agility, thereby avoiding understeering when turning and cornering. In bends, specific brief braking of the inner rear wheel results in defined cornering of the vehicle.
The AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive enhances driving safety and grip on wet or wintry road surfaces. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disk clutch with a locking effect of 50 Nm which exploits the frictional connection potential of all four wheels to the full on snow and ice in particular.

The technical basis for the all-wheel drive system is provided by a transfer case for the additional power take-off to the driven rear axle. This transfer case is integrated compactly into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and requires virtually no additional installation space. The torque is transmitted from the power take-off via a propeller shaft to the front axle. Power transmission to the front-left drive shaft is effected via an intermediate shaft which passes through an encapsulated shaft duct in the engine oil pan. The compact and weight-optimised design results in a comparatively low level of additional weight for the all-wheel-drive system of only 70 kilograms.

CLS 63 AMG S-Model with rear-axle differential lock

The CLS 63 AMG S-Model sees Mercedes-AMG going one step further. True to the "Driving Performance" philosophy, a differential lock is fitted on the rear axle. This high-tech package results in a further increase in traction, ultimately leading to even greater driving dynamics and enhanced driving enjoyment, especially on the race track.

All CLS 63 AMG models feature the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping system. The front axle employs a steel-spring suspension system, while the rear axle is fitted with a fully load-bearing air suspension system. Pressing the button marked with a shock absorber in the AMG DRIVE UNIT is sufficient to switch the electronics from "Comfort" to "Sport" or "Sport plus". The three-link front suspension has undergone further optimisation for the S-Model and the CLS 63 AMG with all-wheel drive. In conjunction with the newly developed axle components produced in aluminium, these optimisation measures result in markedly enhanced grip and agility combined with a high level of neutrality during fast cornering. The markedly more performance-oriented elastokinematics are exclusive to the S-Model, and offer the driver maximum neutrality and even better feedback and grip at the critical limits. With rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG's 24 millimetre wider track at the front offers substantially greater stability at high cornering speeds and improved road feel. Increased negative camber on both axles additionally boosts lateral dynamics.

Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive steering complements the vehicle's set-up to perfection, the direct steering ratio of 14 : 1 providing for extremely agile handling in bends in conjunction with the variable servo assistance geared to the given suspension mode. The CLS 63 AMG is fitted as standard with triple-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey and featuring a high-sheen finish. Tyres in size 255/35 R 19 are fitted to 9.0 x 19 wheels at the front, while the 10 x 19 rear wheels have 285/30 R 19 tyres. Only the high-performance S-Model features exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in matt titanium grey with a high-sheen rim flange.

Optional AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system

The CLS 63 AMG is equipped with an AMG high-performance braking system befitting its status as an AMG automobile. The front and rear axles sport ventilated and perforated brake disks in ample 360 millimetre format. The disks which are subject to particularly high levels of stress and strain on the front axle feature the composite braking technology which has been tried and tested in the field of motor sport. Callipers in a silver painted finish with white AMG lettering and incorporating six pistons (front) and four pistons (rear) provide for spontaneous, fading-resistant deceleration and the shortest stopping distances.

An AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system is exclusively available for the S-Model as an optional feature – recognisable by the even larger 402 millimetre brake disks and the "AMG Carbon Ceramic" logo on callipers sporting a special paint finish. This ceramic system is around 40 percent lighter, providing for reduced unsprung masses and enhanced driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort. The superior hardness of the ceramic brake disks leads to a longer service life and greater resistance to extreme stress and heat.

S-Model with subtly different design features

In terms of exterior design, the CLS 63 AMG S-Model is differentiated from the other models by brake callipers in a red painted finish and the AMG logo on the trunk lid sporting an "S" in contrasting black. When the customer so desires, the interior of the S-Model features grey contrasting stitching on the AMG sports seats, the door centre panels, the door armrests and the centre console. Silver seat belts are also on board in conjunction with a black interior. The rim of the AMG Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather is flattened at the top and bottom and boasts grip areas in Alcantara® and grey contrasting stitching. The front head restraints of the AMG sports seats incorporate exclusive embossed AMG emblems. The AMG instrument cluster in a new design features an "S AMG" logo on the 320 km/h speedometer and red applications. AMG door sill panels illuminated in white round off the exclusive range of equipment and appointments.

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

A very special highlight among the optional equipment and appointments for all CLS variants is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes‑ AMG together with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen. The sound system also offers playback in Dolby Digital 5.1 quality and enables an exclusive audio experience of the very highest standard. This performance is made possible by a 1200 W amplifier and 14 high-end loudspeakers with neodymium driver in conjunction with precision distribution of the audio signals by the sound processor. This integrated digital sound processor (DSP) enables the driver to select a special B&O sound menu via COMAND. Front, central or rear sound setups can be selected in True Image™ mode, resulting in an authentic audio experience in the selected listening position. Various sound modes are additionally stored in the "Sound Mode" menu, enabling selection between a "Reference" high-end studio sound and a surround option. While "Reference" focuses on an authentic, unadulterated rendering of the artist's performance, the special surround sound mode is particularly ideal for live or concert music, creating a unique panoramic sound in the vehicle without compromising the natural character of the recording.
The illuminated 50 W tweeters featuring Acoustic Lens Technology in the mirror triangles add special highlights. High-quality loudspeaker covers in "silver chrome" bearing the Bang & Olufsen logo additionally allude to the exclusive character of the high-end surround sound system.

designo wooden luggage compartment floor in American cherry

A further highlight for all models of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is the designo wooden luggage compartment floor. This luggage compartment floor is made of open-pore American cherry wood, a decorative fine wood traditionally used in superior interior design work, high-quality furniture and exclusive ship outfitting applications. Selected veneer sheets are glued and pressed together by hand in cross-bonded layers to achieve high dimensional stability. The blanks are milled into their precise shape using a CNC machine, and the surfaces are sanded to a smooth finish, waterproofed and oiled to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

Dark fumed oak inlays, precision-cut in narrow three-millimetre strips using laser technology, lend a definitive finishing touch to the design of the luggage compartment floor. In combination with rubber strips, the extruded aluminium rails with brushed surfaces not only protect the wood surface but also have an anti-slip effect.

The market launch of the CLS 63 AMG with rear-wheel drive will begin in April 2013, with the all-wheel-drive CLS 63 AMG and the CLS 63 AMG S-Model following in June.

* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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SPY: Mercedes-Benz begins development of the new 2015 MLC-Class (C 292)

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In 2015, Mercedes-Benz will start production for a new model series at the US-based plant Tuscaloosa, Alabama: the MLC-Class will be company's first-ever SUV coupe. Initial photos and details should be officially issued by mid-December 2014, with the official introduction slated for NAIAS Detroit the following year and the market release later on in spring.

Internally codenamed C 292, the new MLC sits on a modified ML-Class chassis. We expect the vehicle will be substantially longer than its brother and also more dynamic and refined. The development stage kicked off recently, with photographers spotting an entire fleet of W 166 test mules for the future SUV coupe being deployed in Germany along with some BMW X6 vehicles, whom the MLC-Class is directly aimed at. First real test prototypes, featuring a finished design hidden under the camouflage, could hit streets in about four months from now.

As seen from the spy shots, the rear wings on the ML models are modified to accomodate the new components of the MLC-Class chassis. The car will be standardly equipped with the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive traction, tweaked for best on-road performance and a sports ride. The ON & OFFROAD package with integrated management will be offered as an option, like for the ML and GL.

We cannot be very imaginative regarding the exterior design of the C 292. The tons of renditions that appeared since this model was rumored a few years ago might offer just a mild impression, miles different from the real car. Although it is not entirely a coupe (not if you count the number of doors), we expect Mercedes-Benz designers will deliver a spectacular exercise of style and elegance, paying a tribute to the 2-door models of the constructor into a very modern interpretation.

More details --> PREVIEW: Mercedes-Benz starts an aggressive offensive of coupe vehicles

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé (C 207) and Cabriolet (A 207) 2013: The complete video gallery

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The all new, updated E-Class lineup will be showcased by Mercedes-Benz in less than a week at the first major auto show of the year: NAIAS 2013 in Detroit. As the Limousine and T-Modell relatives, the recently previewed Coupé and Cabriolet variants lead the quad-headlight design into a new era, thanks to intelligent lighting technology based on LEDs and outstanding inner lamp graphics. The revised C 207 and A 207 models impress with their sophistication level. The beautiful styling, which applies elements of the latest philosophy, could not be complete without an array of special technical measures that look to improve safety, efficiency, dynamics and communication aboard the new cars. Most of the "Intelligent drive" technologies come straight from the 212 siblings and include the latest iteration of the COMAND Online, the new DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, BAS PLUS with Junction Assist, the enhanced PRE-SAFE PLUS and the 360-degree Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera System. There is a also a wide choice of powerful petrol and diesel engines to pick from. All of the units are highly efficient and equipped with the ECO start/stop system. Six petrol engines are available ranging in output from 184 hp to 408 hp and there are also three diesel engines ranging from 170 hp to 265 hp.

Admire the new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet 2013 in a set of four fascinating videos. Enjoy! :)



Video Credits: Daimler AG / Mercedes-Benz | The new E-Class -- The E-xperience / cms-GOMEX™

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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The New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet 2013: Driving pleasure at the highest level - passion, sportiness, intelligence

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Like the Saloon and Estate models, Mercedes-Benz has completely revised the Coupé and Cabriolet members of the E-Class family. New additions include powerful and efficient BlueDIRECT four-cylinder engines featuring pioneering injection technology and trend-setting assistance systems, which come under the heading "Intelligent drive". These are systems which can help to prevent accidents with crossing vehicles or pedestrians, Active Lane Keeping Assist or anti-glare, permanent high-beam headlamps, for example. Visually, both the Coupé and Cabriolet draw on the new Mercedes-Benz design idiom. Exclusive, luxurious equipment for sublime refinement underlines the close affinity with the E-Class family.

The classic Coupé and the four-seater Cabriolet of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class are amongst the most desirable vehicles at the higher end of the mid-class segment. By combining intelligent, efficient technology with luxurious equipment that offers superb comfort, neither model comprises when it comes to indulging a passion for superlative driving enjoyment. That is why they are regarded as highlights of the successful E-Class family. The design of the exterior and interior alike is fresh and sharp, as befits many of the stand-out new technical aspects.

According to Dr Joachim Schmidt, member of the Management Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars and responsible for Sales and Marketing: "Three words sum up both the E-Class Coupé and the four-seater Cabriolet model: captivating, athletic, passionate. It is especially pleasing that the two vehicles also incorporate the most intelligent technology ever. This makes them true dream cars."

Design: e-motion at its best

The main feature of the new look E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet is the revised front with new headlamps comprising a single headlamp lens over all functional elements. The headlamps are fitted with anti-dazzle LED lights as standard, with full LED technology now available for the first time in this class as an option. Flowing light elements within the headlamps reinforce the "twin-headlamp" look which is typical of the E-Class.

New front bumpers with a more pronounced V-shape and large air intakes considerably accentuate the dynamism of these agile vehicles. As a whole, the front with sports car radiator has an autonomous, sporty face, while at the same time emphasising the close affinity between the Coupé and Cabriolet and the new E-Class Saloon.

As a visible sign of this sporty car's rear-wheel drive, the muscular-looking rear wing has been retained. New tail lamps and a wide-effect rear bumper with "wing design" and chrome-look trim serve to discreetly underline the athletic appearance of these model series.

The Coupé has classic proportions with a long bonnet, elongated side line, flat roof line, and powerful tail end. Traditional stylistic features which render the Mercedes-Benz Coupé models unmistakeable define the striking lines of the two-door variant. For example, uninterrupted by a B-pillar, the side windows can be opened to their full extent.

The four-seater Cabriolet model also has fully retractable side windows, with a continuous shoulder line that ascends slightly as it runs from the front to the boot lid emphasising its clear proportions.

A fine interior

Mercedes-Benz has additionally updated the interiors of the E‑Class Coupé and Cabriolet, carefully coordinating them with the expressive exteriors. Inside the vehicles, stylish materials dominate alongside clean-cut surfaces and the two-part trim which stretches across the entire dashboard. It can be selected in a wood or aluminium look, thereby rounding off the high-quality overall impression made by each interior.

The kindred nature of the new E-Class family is indicated by an analogue clock between the redesigned air outlets, as well as by controls in silver chrome.

The interior is characterised by the redesigned centre console without selector lever, as well as a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with DIRECT SELECT lever and shift paddles in conjunction with automatic transmission.

One special benefit of the new E-Class Cabriolet is that, thanks to the acoustic soft top with its particularly high-grade insulation, the vehicle has the lowest noise level in its class. The unique acoustic soft top ensures that even at high speeds, only very little wind noise is heard in the interior.

For exceptional comfort when driving with the top down, the speed-dependent AIRCAP system is available as an option. This reduces wind swirl within the vehicle interior and therefore noise levels, too. New: the AIRCAP system deploys automatically at speeds exceeding 40 km/h and the wind deflector in the front windscreen frame automatically retracts again below 15 km/h. This ensures that the E-Class Cabriolet appears at its purest and most alluring when driving slowly and when stationary. The draught-stop between the rear head restraints responds to the number of vehicle occupants (passengers in the rear are detected if the rear seat belts are in use). The positions of the extendable wind deflector in the windscreen frame and the draught-stop are then adjusted accordingly.

Also optionally available: AIRSCARF neck-level heating. This addition extends the cabriolet season by ensuring it is comfortable to drive with the top down, even when it is cold outside.

Limitless individual appointments

The E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet offer virtually unlimited scope for individualisation. Examples include new interior colours and colour combinations such as deep-sea blue to contrast with silk beige in the interior. This brings a breath of fresh air to the exclusive ambiance of the two sportier E-Class models.

"Intelligent drive" with futuristic new assistance systems

As for the Saloon and Estate models, new assistance systems that combine comfort with safety have found their way into the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. Mercedes-Benz refers to this development as "Intelligent drive".

One basis for all this is formed by state-of-the-art sensors such as a Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror that provides a three-dimensional view up to around 50 metres in front of the vehicle. Intelligent algorithms merge the data from the stereo camera with data from installed radar sensors, performing an evaluation of three-dimensional visual information in order to detect vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs and road markings within a large field of vision. The algorithms also spatially classify moving objects.

As standard in the main markets, both the Coupé and Cabriolet models are fitted with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive brake assist systems. It helps to significantly reduce the risk of a rear-end collision. Also forming part of the standard equipment is ATTENTION ASSIST, which is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and also inform the driver about their level of fatigue and the amount of driving time which has elapsed since their last break. It also offers an adjustable sensitivity level.

As for the Saloon and Estate models, a number of assistance systems are also optionally available which are either new or now feature significantly extended functions. The following is an overview of the innovations:

- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist can help to take the burden off the driver when it comes to keeping the vehicle in its lane and also track traffic in tailbacks semi-automatically

- for the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Junction Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians too, and boost the braking power applied by the driver accordingly

- the PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 50 km/h

- PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognise an imminent rear-end collision. The driver of the vehicle following behind is warned by activation of the rear warning lights with increasing frequency (not in the USA and Canada). The PRE-SAFE® system then triggers occupant protection measures to reduce the forces to which occupants are subjected. It can also firmly apply the stationary vehicle's brakes in the event of a rear-end collision to prevent secondary accidents

- Active Lane Keeping Assist can now detect when the adjacent lane is occupied, including detection of oncoming traffic. When there is the risk of a collision, the system can also prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally, when continuous lines are present, by applying the brakes on one side. As such it makes the ideal supplement to Active Blind Spot Assist

- Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS allows the main-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the beams' cone of light

- Active Parking Assist enables automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces

- in addition to speed limits, Traffic Sign Assist can now also detect and display no-overtaking zones and the respective signs signalling their end. In the case of signs imposing access restrictions, it can also provide visual and acoustic warnings

- the 360-degree camera covers all four sides of the vehicle, thus enabling a uniform all-round view, including virtual bird's eye view – a top-down view of the vehicle and its immediate surroundings. Dynamic guide lines help with entering and leaving parking spaces as well as manoeuvring

Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development: "The new E-Class represents a major step forward in every respect. The design elicits plenty of emotion, causing a stir in its segment. Its technical highlights are unique. For example, new assistance systems from the upcoming S-Class take the burden off the driver by automatically keeping the vehicle in its lane and also tracking traffic in tailbacks. For the first time, there are also systems that can prevent accidents involving crossing traffic or pedestrians. What is more, with its new engines the E-Class achieves optimum values in terms of efficiency, offers an internet-enabled infotainment system, and boosts safety when driving at night thanks to advanced LED headlamps and permanent high-beam with no dazzling. The E-Class is absolutely packed with high-tech features and altogether makes a very attractive package."

Powerful drive system delivering exemplary efficiency

There is a wide choice of powerful petrol and diesel engines for the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. All are highly efficient and equipped with the ECO start/stop system. Six petrol engines are available ranging in output from 135 kW (184 hp) to 300 kW (408 hp) and there are also three diesel engines ranging from 125 kW (170 hp) to 195 kW (265 hp).

A new element is the BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engine with spray-guided direct injection, based on the same trend-setting technology used in the latest generation of six and eight-cylinder engines from Mercedes-Benz. Its technology package includes fast-acting piezo injectors for multiple injection, quick multi-spark ignition, turbocharging, fully variable camshaft adjustment on the inlet and exhaust side, as well as a controlled oil pump.

The BlueDIRECT four-cylinder engine also sees the world's first use of the stratified lean burn process in combination with exhaust-gas turbocharging and external high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation. As a result the Coupé and Cabriolet achieve outstanding emission and consumption figures. In addition, the new BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines already meet the EU6 standard which will apply from 2015.

Also making up the BlueDIRECT petrol engine range are the familiar V6 and V8 engines. A new addition is the six-cylinder engine, which is being offered for the first time as the E 400 with biturbo drive. With its performance potential and enormously high levels of torque at low engine speeds, this engine sets new standards in the six-cylinder sector and also meets the EU6 emissions level.

The six-cylinder diesel engine for the Coupé and Cabriolet is available as BlueTEC models fitted with the established SCR (selective catalytic reduction) technology and as such meets the EU6 emissions standard.

Mercedes-Benz will also offer two transmissions for the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet in the future: a six-speed manual transmission with high ease of shifting and short shift travel, and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and DIRECT SELECT shift paddles. This latest stage of evolution of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS provides significant advantages in terms of efficiency and ease of maintenance.

A new feature is the short-term M mode. The benefit of this: if the driver has shifted up or down manually, after a set period of time the transmission independently switches back to the fuel-efficient automatic shift mode.

The suspension – the basis for superior handling

As standard, the Coupé and Cabriolet are fitted with the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system. The shock absorbers adapt to road surface conditions, thereby ensuring a high level of ride comfort. Sporty handling is enabled while still delivering the comfort on long journeys that is typical of the brand.

An AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension with selective damping system and firmer damping characteristics is available as an alternative along with the Dynamic Handling package. The latter offers a choice of driving mode settings for sportier accelerator pedal characteristics and gear shift points, as well as electronic damping control. This allows the driver to adjust the damping to their requirements at the touch of a button, depending on whether they want a comfortable or sporty ride.

Like the Saloon and Estate models, in future the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet will be equipped with the electromechanical Direct-Steer system as standard. This combines speed dependent power assistance from speed-sensitive steering systems with a steering ratio that varies with the steering angle. The electromechanical Direct-Steer system ensures a more direct response, comfortable handling and high levels of steering comfort across all speed ranges. It also offers the potential to make considerable savings by only calling up energy for the steering action and making innovative assistance systems, such as Active Parking Assist systems, possible for the first time.

High-quality appointments

The Coupé and Cabriolet models come with a comprehensive range of high-quality equipment as standard, including modern infotainment systems. These help to keep the driver up to date while on the road in terms of what is happening around the world or in the office. The systems also enable music to be enjoyed or also optionally offer powerful navigation solutions as well as an internet connection.

The Audio 20 CD Radio comes as standard equipment. It features a 14.7 cm TFT colour display, twin tuner and MP3-capable CD player as well as a USB connection in the centre armrest. Bluetooth®-capable devices can also be connected, and SMS text messages displayed.
Optionally the Audio 20 CD can be combined with a six-disc CD changer as well as the reasonably-priced, entry-level Becker® MAP PILOT navigation solution, which can also be retrofitted.

Alternatively, Mercedes-Benz offers the COMAND Online multimedia system with 17.8 cm high-resolution colour display, internet connection, hard-disc navigation and emergency call feature, which can also be combined with a six-disc DVD changer. COMAND Online provides internet access enabling customers to surf the web while the car is stationary or call up a Mercedes-Benz app, whose particularly fast page loading and simple operation make it suitable for use while driving. Integrated apps include Google™ Local Search and Weather and the facility for downloading a route which has previously been configured on a PC using Google Maps and transmitted to the car. In addition, apps for Google™ Streetview as well as Google™ Panoramio and other apps are also available.

Credits: Daimler AG

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