2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe a C-Class underneath?

[Haltech]

Filed under: Coupes, Mercedes-Benz

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is all-new for 2010, with sleeker, sportier proportions and improved efficiency and performance. The E-Class also weighs 400 pounds less than its sedan stable-mate, but not because of light weight materials. It's because the E-Class coupe is underpinned by the C-Class platform, produced in the same Bremen factory as the C-class, while the E-Class sedan is built in Sindelfingen.

So why not just make a two-door C-Class and base another coupe on the new E-Class architecture? Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, said the C-Class platform was used to give the E-Class Coupe improved performance characteristics. Changing the C to an E also enables Mercedes to charge over $48,050 to start; $50 less than the outgoing CLK350, but a whole lot more than a two-door C-Class. With its smaller proportions and lighter weight, using the C-Class platform also enables Mercedes to make the new E-Class Coupe far more efficient than its predecessor. The E250 diesel will deliver 36% better power while using 17% less fuel. Hat tip to Mike.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class



[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe a C-Class underneath? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 May 2009 00:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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