Mercedes-Benz E-Class review

Is the new E-Class Coupe just as good as it looks?

by Karl Connolly

Nov 29, 2017

Pros: Stand out style, sumptuous interior, smooth drive

Cons: Not as sporty to drive as it looks, expensive options

The Mercedes E-Class spans many genres with Saloon, Estate, All-Terrain and Convertible versions to consider, but the updated Coupe is undoubtedly the fairest of them all. Those who like to make an impression are guaranteed to do so in the Coupe, as it is one of the most striking two-door coupe designs on the market right now. Longer and wider than its predecessor, the E-Class Coupe is also roomier inside than before. We loved the both the E-Class Saloon and Estate when we drove it on Irish roads earlier this year, but does the Coupe version live up to the same standards?

New Mercedes E-Class Coupe

What is it like?

The E-Class Coupe’s styling stands out from the crowd, with a sloping roofline, beautifully carved rear end and highly-positioned rear LED lights. It’s undoubtedly one of the best-looking Coupes on the market right now and it looks more expensive than its price tag would suggest. As standard the Coupe is decked out with 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome trim and air intakes. We drove the AMG Line model which is sportier from the outside, with larger 19-inch alloy wheels, an AMG body styling kit, upgraded brake callipers and a black rear diffuser.

Mercedes Dublin Ireland

Just like the E-Class Saloon, the Coupe’s interior impresses immediately when you sit inside. The cabin is luxurious with high quality materials surrounding the driver’s area, and striking turbine air vents across the dash. The infotainment system is flanked by two gorgeous optional 12.3-inch display screens, but the system takes getting used to and there is no touch screen functionality. Up front, the seating position is cosseting, and the new E-Class Coupe is longer and wider than before which means there is some much-needed extra legroom for two rear seat passengers. As two-door Coupes go, it’s reasonably practical too, with 425 litres of room in the boot.

Mercedes E Class interior

The engine range consist of a 184 horsepower 2.0-litre petrol (E200), a more powerful 245 horsepower 2.0-litre petrol (E300) and a 194 horsepower 2.0-litre diesel (E220d). We drove the E220d diesel, and this is ultimately the one that Irish buyers will be drawn too, with reasonable performance (0-100km/h in 7.4 seconds) and strong fuel economy. The E-Class Coupe uses a smooth nine-speed-automatic transmission and power delivery is especially suited to overtaking at motorway speeds. Most will be satisfied with the diesel engine’s performance; however, the E-Class Coupe isn’t quite as thrilling to drive as it looks from the outside.

Mercedes alloy wheels

The E-Class Coupe seems most at home cruising around town or on the motorway, where its soft suspension soaks up bumps and rough surfaces with aplomb. There is optional air suspension too, which adds an extra degree of comfort on longer journeys. At higher speeds, cabin noise is low and hushed. It isn’t the sportiest of Coupes to drive, and while it steers well and responds better than the Saloon, alternatives like the Audi A5 or BMW 4 Series score higher for driving thrills.

Mercedes display screen

Prices for the new Mercedes E-Class Coupe start from €48,750 for the base specification E200 petrol, which is competitive in this corner of the market. Standard equipment is generous with ambient lighting, Garmin navigation, heated front seats, leather upholstery, Mercedes’ parking package, 18-inch alloy wheels, a choice of three centre console trims and lots more. The high specification AMG Line version we drove gains lots of extra equipment and it is fitted with optional features such as Mercedes’ Premium package, which adds a touchpad controller, multibeam LED headlights and blind post assist, so prices start from over €70,000.

AMG Line E class

Carzone verdict: 4/5

In the circa €50,000 price bracket, there are few cars which can match the E-Class Coupe for sheer style, sophistication and comfort. The Coupe’s interior certainly lives up to its striking exterior looks, and the range of diesel engines offered are frugal and well-suited to long journeys on Irish roads. The E-Class Coupe isn’t as sporty to drive as it looks however, and options are expensive and need to be carefully-considered. We’d recommend the E220d, and AMG Line specification if budget allows.

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