2010 Mercedes Benz

Mercedes Benz is marching onward in its future styling direction with the introduction of the 2010 E-class Coupe. The CLK-coupe name disappears and the replacement will be called the E-class coupe.

Naturally, the E-Class coupe draws heavily on the styling of the 2010 E-Class sedan that was unveiled to the press at the Detroit Auto Show. Gone is the familiar four-oval front end. In its place is a sharper more angular nose with four pointy diamond-like, headlamps and LED running lights that peek out from the lower fascia. Unlike the sedan, however, the coupes wear the three prong star in the grille only.

The coupe's profile has changed considerably from the outgoing CLK. The roof is now so curved, you would be hard pressed to balance a ball on it. In fact, flat panels are few and far between, especially with the busy rear quarter panels. Chrome trim encircles the side windows which follow a practically protracted curve along the roof line. Out back, the car's hind quarters are vaguely reminiscent of Audi's A5, an impression only encouraged by the inclusion of LED taillights.

Inside, the E-class coupe is similar to the sedan with the exception of the shifter which resides on the console instead of on the column. There is seating for only four occupants with what appears to be a fairly roomy back seat. The controller for the standard Command multimedia interface is perched directly behind the shifter. A panoramic sunroof is standard as well, along with leather sport seats and dual-zone climate control.

Technology that is bountiful in the sedan, also finds its way into the coupe. Standard equipment includes PRE-SAFE, the crash anticipating safety system, and ATTENTION ASSIST - a fatigue-sensing system - that helps keep drowsy drivers alert. Buyers can also opt for adaptive cruise control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a system that dims the highbeams if they might blind another driver.

When the coupe goes on sale in June two models will be offered, the E350 with a 268-hp 3.5-liter V-6 or the E550 with a 382-hp 5.5-liter V-8. The coupe will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month and a convertible model will make its debut shortly after. Although the CLK had always cost less than the E-class sedan, we're afraid the E-class coupe will cost a bit more than the sedan. We won't know for sure until pricing is announced closer to the car's launch.