2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe Preview

Introduction

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its redesigned 2018 E-Class Coupe well in advance of the car’s debut at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

Longer, wider, and larger inside than the car it replaces, which was based on the previous-generation C-Class platform, the new E-Class Coupe will be initially offered as the E400 and equipped with a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine. Almost certainly, Mercedes will apply its performance-oriented AMG treatment to the car, and lop the roof off to transform it into a convertible as well.

The new E-Class Coupe goes on sale in the summer of 2017.

• 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Overview
• 2016 Mercedes-Benz Buyer's Guide

Exterior Features

The new E-Class Coupe slots between the smaller C-Class Coupe and larger S-Class Coupe. Styling themes between all three cars are similar, with the E-Class demonstrating a greater measure of conservatism and frameless side glass with somewhat awkward rear quarter windows.

Though the crystal-optic taillights are horizontally oriented, Mercedes likens their appearance to stardust, or the glow of a jet engine.

Interior Features

Equipped with individual seating for 4 people, the new 2018 Mercedes E-Class Coupe provides greater rear-seat leg, shoulder, and head room than the outgoing model, making it habitable for more than two adults. Mercedes promises “high-grade materials and contemporary colors” for the new E-Class Coupe’s cabin, which is bathed in natural light by an oversized sunroof.

Optional Features

Among the initially announced options for the E-Class Coupe, Magic Vision Control equips the car with washer jets on the windshield wiper blades, as well as heated blades for maximum effectiveness in ice and snow. The system is standard for vehicles equipped with 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD).

Additionally, an available LED exterior lighting system includes automatic high-beam and active curve illumination, and the enhanced ambient LED interior lighting system provides 64 different colors from which to choose.

A Sport package is also offered for the E400 Coupe, adding chrome-tipped grille studs, subtle styling changes to the bumpers, a set of AMG aluminum wheels, and an AMG sports steering wheel.

Under the Hood

In the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 Coupe, a twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter V-6 engine supplies 329 horsepower from 5,250 rpm to 6,000 rpm, and 354 lb.-ft. of torque from 3,500 rpm to 5,250 rpm. This surge of force is delivered to the rear wheels through a 9-speed automatic transmission, and AWD is an option. Acceleration to 60 mph takes as few as 5.2 seconds, Mercedes says.

Standard equipment includes a selective damping suspension. An optional Air Body Control suspension includes roll, pitch, and heave stabilization as well as continuous adaptive damping.

Dynamic Select technology is standard, providing the driver with Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual driving modes. The system adjusts throttle response, the automatic start/stop system, transmission shift points, and, when the car is so equipped, the Air Body Control suspension.

Safety

Mercedes has already established the recently redesigned E-Class Sedan as one of the safest and most technologically advanced automobiles ever created, and the new E-Class Coupe will adopt similar features and functions.

Initial information from the automaker confirms that the E400 Coupe will come standard with a forward-collision warning system with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, and will be available with the company’s Drive Pilot technology. Drive Pilot is a semi-autonomous intelligent cruise control system that can follow vehicles ahead at speeds of up to 130 mph, keeping the E-Class Coupe in its lane, rounding curves, and even changing lanes with no more than use of the turn signal to indicate the move.

More details about the E400 Coupe’s driver-assistance and safety systems will be available closer to the car’s Detroit debut or arrival in showrooms.

Technology

Every E400 Coupe will have a standard Comand infotainment and navigation system with a 12.3-in. display, handwriting-recognition technology, and touch-control buttons on the steering wheel that allow the driver to execute a variety of commands without removing his or her hands from the steering wheel.

Wireless device charging and smartphone-projection technology (Apple Car Play and Android Auto) are also a part of this infotainment package, and Mbrace Concierge Service is available with active Connect and Secure subscriptions, providing a personal-assistance service complete with smartphone app.

As an option, E-Class Coupe buyers can specify a 12.3-in. instrument cluster display and select between Classic, Sport, and Progressive themes. A Burmeister high-end audio system is also available for the new E400 Coupe.

Additional Research

• 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Overview
• 2016 Mercedes-Benz Buyer's Guide