Engines range from the fuel-sipping, torquey diesel fourbanger and the turbodiesel V6 all the way up to a 388 HP V8. Full details in the press release below. We're still busy looking through the photos.

The engines for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé: Passion meets efficiency: more power, more driving enjoyment, less CO2

Stuttgart – Captivating design, passion-fuelled driving enjoyment and
outstandingly low CO2 emissions – these are the hallmarks of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé. Its sporty temperament is largely attributable to newly developed and modified engines, including a new four-cylinder powerplant with direct injection, which outperforms engines that boast a far higher displacement yet still succeeds in saving fuel.

With a displacement of 2.2 litres, the engine in the Mercedes-Benz E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé develops 150 kW/204 hp and consumes 5.1 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres; equivalent to CO2 emissions of 135 g/km. Mercedes-Benz offers a total of five powerful engines – four of them with direct injection – for the new E-Class Coupé. These exemplary fuel-consumption and CO2 figures, achieved without compromising on agility or driving enjoyment, are down to BlueEFFICIENCY measures as well as to the new engines. These measures include optimised aerodynamics with the world-best cd (drag-coefficient) figure for any series-production car. And that is not to mention a sophisticated energy management system, a shift-point and fuel-consumption indicator in the cockpit, and tyres with low rolling resistance. All of the engines for the new E-Class Coupé meet the requirements of the EU5 emission standard. Thanks to its innovative technology, the E-Class Coupé proves that excitement, driving enjoyment and ecology can go hand in hand.

It is now possible to combine the temperament of a sports car and the stylistic allure of a coupé with ambitious ecological aims. As proven by Mercedes-Benz with the new E-Class Coupé, whose motto is "more power and more driving enjoyment with even lower fuel consumption".

Thanks in no small part to the Mercedes strategy, which involves substituting large-displacement, non-turbocharged engines for turbocharged powerplants with a lower displacement. Key benefits of this concept include lighter weight, reduced internal friction and a more economical fuel-consumption map. As a consequence, the newly developed and modified four-cylinder powerplants have a lower displacement yet develop more power than earlier six-cylinder units whilst also posting impressive fuel-consumption figures only previously achievable on a regular basis by compact cars.

The engine line-up for the new E-Class Coupé comprises four-, six- and eight-cylinder powerplants with outputs ranging from 150 kW/204 hp to 285 kW/ 388 hp.

Fuel consumption of 5.1 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 135 g per km
With its newly developed four-cylinder powerplant, the E-Class Coupé is a
generation ahead when it comes to diesel technology. The new engine features latest-generation common-rail direct injection, fast piezo injectors, enhanced exhaust gas recirculation, and new twin turbochargers that ensure spontaneous power delivery and excellent performance characteristics.

To put this into figures, the E 250 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY Coupé with an output of 150 kW/204 hp and a torque of 500 Nm is around 36 more powerful and produces 47 percent more torque than the previous four-cylinder engine in the outgoing model, yet it consumes around 17 percent less fuel: 5.1 litres per 100 kilometres (provisional NEDC combined figure), equivalent to 135 grams of CO2 per kilometre. All of which makes the new CDICoupé more fuel efficient than comparable models in this output category.

Topping the range of diesel models is the E 350 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY Coupé
with six cylinders and an output of 170 kW/231 hp. Despite the higher output and torque produced by this sophisticated compression-ignition engine, fuel consumption is considerably less than that of the previous model, amounting to just 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres, equivalent to 179 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

Petrol models with up to 12 percent lower fuel consumption thanks to direct injection
The petrol models are equally impressive, boasting a higher output and lower fuel consumption than their predecessors. The new E 250 CGIBlueEFFICIENCY Coupé model with direct petrol injection has a displacement of 1.8 litres and an output of 150 kW/204 hp yet consumes a mere 7.2 litres of premium unleaded petrol per 100 kilometres (provisional NEDC combined figure) – around one litre per 100 kilometres (12 percent) less than the previous four-cylinder engine (135 kW/184 hp) with conventional fuel injection and a supercharger. The CO2 emissions of the new direct-injection model have been cut to 167 grams per kilometre.

The E 350 CGIBlueEFFICIENCY Coupé is powered by the world's first petrol engine with spray-guided direct injection. The six-cylinder powerplant develops 215 kW/292 hp and provides a peak torque of 365 Nm from 3000 rpm. Thanks
to the state-of-the-art engine technology, which Mercedes-Benz has modified right down to the last detail, fuel consumption is reduced to 8.5 litres per 100 kilo-metres (NEDC combined figure), which is 14 percent lower than the figure for the previous model, whose V6 engine featured port injection.

The eight-cylinder engine in the E 500 Coupé – the flagship powerplant in the new generation of Mercedes-Benz V-engines – develops 285 kW/388 hp with a relatively low fuel consumption of 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres. Attributes of this variant of the new Coupé include high output and torque yield as well as
exemplary refinement and effortlessly superior agility.

As with carbon dioxide emissions, the engines for the new E-Class have also taken a further major step towards the future when it comes to exhaust gas
emissions: all of the powerplants meet the requirements of the EU 5 standard, whose limits are up to 80 percent more stringent than those specified by previous standards.
Lower fuel consumption thanks to BlueEFFICIENCY

Like the new engines, the BlueEFFICIENCY package for the E-Class Coupé helps to reduce fuel consumption. A team of development engineers drawn from every key discipline has optimised the parts and components – by reducing their weight, modifying their form, improving their functioning or ensuring more efficient energy management – in order to save fuel.

The work performed in the wind tunnel has proven particularly successful: with a drag coefficient (cd figure) of 0.24, the new E-Class Coupé is the world's most aerodynamic series-production car.

Further BlueEFFICIENCY measures include newly developed tyres which have had their rolling resistance reduced by up to 17 percent as well as energy-saving control of the alternator, fuel pump, air-conditioning compressor and power steering. Displays on the speedometer inform the driver of the current fuel consumption and when it is best to change up a gear in order to ensure economical and ecoconscious driving.

The launch of a new E-series coupe is traditionally about performance, style and luxury. Not this year. Mercedes has gone out of their way to pump up the new coupe's efficiency, aerodynamics and diesel engines. Four of the five trims first offered in Europe will be "BlueEFFICIENCY" models capable of combined Euro-standard fuel consumption of 30 MPG or better.

The company's diesel offerings include the CDI four-cylinder turbodiesel engine offering 204 HP and 368 lb.-ft of torque found in the E 250 CDI Coupe; and the turbodiesel V6 with 231 HP and nearly 400 lb-ft of torque found in the E 350 CDI Coupe. These two engines combine for 53.3 and 41.5 MPG, respectively on the NFDC scale.

Two of the gas options are also high-performing in the efficiency standard: the E250 CGI direct-injection fourbanger and the E350 CGI direct-injection six. These engines pump out 204 HP and 292 HP, resepctively, with combined NFDC mileage of 32.5 and 40.3 MPG, respectively.

Topping off the engines, and the models, is the classic E 500 Coupe, which gets the company's powerful 388 HP V8, though this, too, returns a bearable 25.9 MPG combined.

All models will be offered in either SE or Sport trim when they go on sale this June.

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé

Stuttgart – The Geneva Motor Show will see the comeback of an intriguing product idea when Mercedes-Benz presents a new model to the Coupé range in the form of the new E‑Class. Just three months after the presentation of the Saloon, the brand is launching a highlight in the new model series while continuing a tradition that has repeatedly met with great enthusiasm throughout the history of the E-Class.

The new E-Class Coupé offers a very special combination of two attributes for which the Mercedes brand is known: fascination and efficiency. With its classic coupé side aspect – no B-pillars and fully retractable side windows – the new two-door car is a particularly sporty interpretation of the E-Class's dynamic design. At the same time the most aerodynamic variant of the Coupé achieves a new world best in terms of drag coefficient: with a Cd-figure of just 0.24, this model is the world's most aerodynamically efficient series-production car. The model programme includes two new 4-cylinder engines, which consume up to 17% less fuel whilst offering a significant increase in performance and torque. The new E-Class Coupé's standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension adjusts automatically to the current driving situation. It combines driving enjoyment and excellent handling with maximum comfort. The new E-Class Coupé will be in UK showrooms from June 2009.

The new Coupé offers all the technical innovations of the new E-Class series that one might expect to find in a sports-oriented luxury coupé. These include selective damper control, drowsiness detection, preventive occupant protection and the Active Bonnet. As a feature specific to the Coupé, the Dynamic Driving package allows different suspension setups at the touch of a button. Adaptive Main Beam Assist and an automatic emergency braking system are also features with which the new series sets standards in this vehicle category.

The E-Class also takes on a pioneering role in the drive sector. The new diesels and direct-injection petrol engines combine efficiency with an effortless power delivery. The engine line-up includes two new four-cylinder models which deliver significantly more power and torque while consuming up to 17 percent less fuel. The best example is the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, which consumes 53.3 mpg emits 139 grams of CO2 per kilometre, making it one of the most economical vehicles in its class.

The exemplary, fuel consumption has not only been achieved because of the new engines, but also with a number of practical measures. These include on-demand activation of the steering and fuel pumps, the use of tyres with low rolling resistance and an alternator control system which takes account of the current driving situation and the vehicle's electrical power requirements, plus the very decisive factor of outstanding aerodynamics.

Design which expresses passion and effortless superiority

The design of the new two-door model includes traditional styling elements which give Mercedes-Benz Coupés their unmistakable identity: for example the side windows, which are not interrupted by a B-pillar and are fully retractable. Another hallmark of Mercedes Coupé design is the sports radiator grille with the large central star. At the same time, however, the new model points the way to the future with an exciting, contemporary design idiom.

At the same time the Coupé shows its close family resemblance to the E-Class Saloon. This is shown by the 'twin-headlamp face', with rhomboid contours but somewhat sportier, sharper treatment for a more dynamic and incisive look.

Another design feature which the Coupé shares with the Saloon is the powerful contour of the rear wing — a styling cue which also gave the S 220 "Ponton" Coupé of 1955 its athletic appearance.

Although it shares family traits with the Saloon, the Coupé has its own, distinct identity characterised by effortless superiority and a greater sense of passion. The arrow shape of the entire front section from front bumper to radiator to bonnet, the more extreme interpretation of the twin headlamp face and its more lean build give it a racier and more dynamic presence.

Newly developed seats with a sporty design

The seats of the E-Class Coupé are new developments whose design and technology reflect the sporty nature of this two-door Mercedes. They are electrically adjustable for seat height and backrest angle as standard. The high, sports car-like seat backrests have a practical Easy-Entry function to make access and egress easier for rear-seat passengers. In conjunction with electric seat adjustment with memory (an optional extra), the front seats are equipped with electro pneumatically adjustable four-way lumbar supports; these are able to provide anatomically favourable support for the lower spine, which further improves seating comfort.

Luxury seats with leather upholstery are standard on the SE, and active ventilation available is available as an optional extra. The newly developed multicontour seats with inflatable air chambers in the front seat cushions as well as in the centre and side bolsters of the backrests are standard on the Sport model. Two comfortable individual seats are available for the rear passengers. These feature backrests which can be folded down individually or together to increase the capacity of the luggage compartment.

Engines: fuel consumption improved by 17 percent

The diesel in the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé is the top-of-the-range unit in the new generation of Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder engines, which are notable for features such as two-stage turbo charging, precise piezo injectors and the latest common-rail technology. The engine has an output of 204 hp and develops a maximum torque of 500 Nm which is available from just 1600 rpm. This means that it is some 36 percent more powerful than the four-cylinder diesel in the preceding model yet consumes 17 percent less fuel returning 53.3 mpg (combined NEDC consumption, provisional figure). This corresponds to a carbon dioxide emission level of 139 grams per kilometre.

The turbocharged V6 diesel engine with common-rail direct injection remains in the line-up. Fitted in the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, it develops 231 hp (previously: 224 hp) and returns 41.5 mpg (combined) in the NEDC cycle. Its carbon-dioxide emissions are 179 grams per kilometre.

Two new petrol engines with direct injection

Mercedes-Benz has also chosen to move over to direct-injection technology for its petrol engines. Once again, the E-Class Coupé points the way: the power plant at work under the bonnet of the E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé is a newly developed four-cylinder direct-injection unit with 204 hp and a five-speed automatic transmission as standard. This engine returns 40.4 mpg (combined NEDC consumption, provisional figure). CO2 emissions are 164 grams per kilometre. This is some 13 percent less than the figure for the previous four-cylinder engine (184 hp) with conventional fuel injection.

Mercedes-Benz has replaced the previous V6 petrol engine with the world's first six-cylinder unit featuring spray-guided direct petrol injection in the new E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé. This engine develops 292 hp – an extra 20 hp – and consumes about 14 percent less fuel than the previous V6 engine: its combined fuel economy is 32.5 mpg. This corresponds to 203 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

In the top-of-the-range model, the E 500 Coupé, the muscular V8 engine with 388 hp and 530 Nm of torque offers the performance characteristics of a sports car. Mercedes engineers have enhanced details of the eight-cylinder unit, to returns 25.9 mpg (combined NEDC consumption). All the engines in the new E-Class Coupés meet the EU5 exhaust emission standard.

Safety: sensors, radar and cameras for safer driving

The safety systems newly developed for the E-Class are based on accident research findings; they can make a valuable contribution to enabling safe, accident-free driving, improving vehicle occupant protection and, moreover, helping to increase the safety of other road users. These trend-setting developments are also available for the new E-Class Coupé, or are included in its standard equipment. Based on highly sensitive sensors, cameras and radar systems, they turn this two-door model into an "intelligent partner" able to see, feel and react reflexively in critical situations and, if necessary, act independently if the danger of an accident is acute.

Drowsiness is one of the most common causes of accidents on motorways. This is why Mercedes experts have developed the ATTENTION ASSIST system which forms part of the standard equipment of the new E-Class Coupé. As the vehicle is being driven, the system continuously evaluates more than 70 different parameters in order to identify driver drowsiness and provide a warning before the dangerous microsleep phase begins. Observing the driver's steering behaviour has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes engineers has shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in a characteristic way. This steering behaviour is recognised by a special steering angle sensor.

Also fitted as standard is the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system — a Mercedes invention which has received a number of awards and which is not offered by any other vehicle in this class. If there is immediate danger of an accident occurring, the system activates protective measures for the driver and front passenger as a precaution so that the seat belts and airbags can provide their full protective effect on impact. This warning of an impending accident is possible because PRE-SAFE® uses the sensors of the Brake Assist system and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) to identify potentially critical dynamic handling situations.

Adaptive Main Beam Assist for the best possible road illumination

Like the Saloon, the new E-Class Coupé also offers the latest lighting technology. The headlamps adjust continuously to the current driving situation and react automatically to offer the driver the best possible degree of road illumination at all times. This task is taken care of by the Adaptive Main Beam Assist function: a camera fitted on the inside of the windscreen allows the system to detect oncoming vehicles/vehicles in front and automatically controls the headlamps to prevent the other road users from being dazzled. As a result, the range of the dipped-beam headlamps can increase from the current norm of 65 metres to as much as 300 metres. If the road ahead is clear, the system performs a gradual transition to high-beam mode.

Adaptive Main Beam Assist is based on the bi-xenon headlamps, which Mercedes-Benz offers in combination with LED daytime driving lights. This is standard on the Sport and optional on the SE.

Automatic emergency braking when a collision is imminent

The well-proven assistance systems from the S-Class which help to prevent rear-end collisions are now available for the E-Class Coupé, too. They use long and short-range radar sensors to monitor the traffic situation ahead of the vehicle and warn the driver if there is a risk of an accident. Mercedes-Benz combines these technologies in the DISTRONIC PLUS system; along with the proximity control system — which automatically maintains the Coupé at a set distance from the vehicle in front and can brake it to a standstill if required by the traffic situation — this comprises Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE-SAFE® Brake.

Brake Assist PLUS intervenes if there is suddenly a very rapid reduction in the distance. In this situation, the system warns the driver and almost instantaneously calculates the degree of braking assistance necessary to prevent a collision. This brake force is available immediately the driver depresses the brake pedal. Depending on the speed and distance, it allows controlled braking to a defined point or — if necessary — emergency braking.

The PRE-SAFE® Brake goes a step further and automatically brakes the E-Class if there is imminent danger of a collision and the driver does not react to the warnings. This can reduce the severity of an impact considerably, as the system can be regarded as something like an "electronic crumple zone" which offers the occupants an even greater degree of safety.

Most comprehensive array of safety features in this vehicle category

With seven standard-fit airbags, belt tensioners and belt force limiters on all seats, as well as crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger, the new E-Class Coupé offers the most comprehensive array of safety features in this vehicle category. The range of airbags, which can deploy in thousandths of a second in an accident, comprises front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, a knee bag for the driver and window bags. Rear sidebags are available as an optional extra.

The front crumple zone has four independent impact planes which allow the forces to be distributed over a wide area while bypassing the passenger cell.

Furthermore, increased use of extra-high-strength steel alloy helps the vehicle body to withstand high impact loads. In fact, particularly strong grades of steel like this account for about two thirds of all the sheet metal used in the body shell of the E-Class Coupé.

An Active Bonnet, which forms part of the standard equipment, is the latest development to result from Mercedes-Benz's long-standing and successful commitment to pedestrian protection. In the event of an impact, a system of springs raises the rear section of the bonnet by 50 millimetres within a fraction of a second, thereby increasing the available deformation space. A special feature of the Mercedes system is its reversible mechanism which allows the driver to reset the Active Bonnet without having to visit a workshop.

Comfort: advanced technology for a new driving experience

Along with safety, comfort has always been one of the outstanding qualities of the E-Class. Here, too, the Coupé lives up to the high standard set by the Saloon and demonstrates further noticeable progress, especially with regard to ride, seating and climate comfort. Another important comfort factor is the generous interior space, which Mercedes engineers created by increasing both the length and width of the vehicle body by 46 millimetres. This resulted in the distance between the front and rear seat reference points — an important dimension for the occupants' freedom of movement — increasing by ten millimetres to 789 mm while the elbow width improved by up to 49 millimetres, compared to the preceding model.

High standard of ride comfort through selective damper control

The new E-Class Coupé's standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension adjusts automatically to the current driving situation. In order to provide the best possible ride comfort, this system reduces the damping during normal driving but immediately applies the maximum damping force during dynamic cornering or sudden evasive manoeuvres. This ensures optimum stabilisation of the Coupé.

As an alternative to the standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension which is set up for comfort, a variant with a sportier damper response and more direct steering – the AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension – is available as an optional extra. To meet the requirements of even more demanding drivers, Mercedes-Benz has developed a dynamic handling package (Standard on the E500 Coupé and optional on the Sport model line) with an electronically controlled damping system. This processes sensor data about the current driving situation and adjusts the shock absorbers separately for each wheel. Furthermore, the driver can switch between two drive modes — Comfort and Sport — which make corresponding adjustments to the suspension set-up, accelerator response and the shift points of the automatic transmission. A newly developed speed-sensitive sports steering system with a more direct ratio and variable centring is also standard on the Sport model line.

In order to allow a comparison of suspension characteristics, Mercedes engineers have developed the body index — a composite formula which is calculated from the readings for various typical driving manoeuvres. The body index is an indication of how well the suspension is linked to the body, how closely the car hugs the road and how nimble the handling is through fast bends. The higher the figure, the sportier — i.e. the firmer — the suspension characteristics.

The body index shows how the dynamic handling package is able to meet customers' requirements for dynamism and comfort in equal measure: the index figure of 2.06 attained in Sport mode is reduced to 1.89 — a typical level for a saloon — when Comfort mode is selected.
Individual climatic comfort at the touch of button

The newly developed luxury automatic climate control system regulates the temperature, volume and distribution of the air in three zones to meet the requirements of the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. What's more, for the first time, this optional THERMOTRONIC system allows the selection of different climatisation modes: the occupants can choose "Diffuse", "Medium" or "Focus" modes at the touch of a button in order to adapt the air volume and distribution to their personal preferences while still benefiting from the convenience and comfort of automatically regulated climate control. Fitted as standard in the E-Class Coupé, the THERMATIC two-zone automatic climate control has been enhanced to offer five percent more heating and cooling power than the version fitted in the predecessor model.

Infotainment system with colour display in the dashboard

The well-proven operating concept from the S-Class, comprising the multifunction steering wheel, Controller on the centre tunnel, colour display in the dash-board and direct selection buttons also offers the occupants of the new E-Class Coupé a very high standard of operating comfort.

The Controller puts all the functions of the advanced infotainment system — such as the radio, CD/DVD player, telephone and navigation system — at the fingertips of the driver and front passenger. The Audio 20 CD radio with eight loudspeakers, a CD player and a Bluetooth interface for a mobile phone is fitted as standard. Customers who specify the optional COMAND multimedia system benefit from additional functions: a Europe-wide hard-disc navigation system, a DVD changer, the Music Register (storage for about 1000 music tracks), a media interface for connecting external MP3 and voice control with whole-word recognition. Further options for even greater listening pleasure are available in the form of a 500-watt surround sound system, players and a tuner for digital radio reception. Navigation 50 will also be optional on the E-Class Coupé providing a compromise between Audio 20 and COMAND offering a head unit with full colour mapping as well as the media interface.

Model range: individuality through variety

With a line-up of five engines in the UK, three suspension variants, a wide choice of colours, five different wheel/tyre combinations and many optional extras, the new E-Class Coupé offers plenty of scope for customers to turn their individual automotive dreams into reality. The basis for configuring the look and feel of the Coupé is provided by the SE and SPORT model lines.

These not only offer different upholsteries and items of trim, but are complete configuration packages designed to create a completely different atmosphere. Depending on the choice, the interior differs in its colour scheme and mix of materials to emphasise the elegant or progressive character of the Coupé.

The Sport model line clearly focuses on agility and performance potential. AMG body styling includes the unmistakable contours of the AMG front apron with large air intakes, AMG side skirts and the expressive AMG rear apron with a black insert. High-sheen 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 6 twin-spoke design with wide-base tyres in size 235/40 R 18 at the front and 255/35 R 18 at the rear provide further highlights. The AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension with a stiffer spring, shock absorber and stabiliser setup is combined with large, perforated brake discs at the front, plus brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering. Perfect road contact is ensured by the sports speed-sensitive steering with a more direct ratio.

Deliveries of the E-Class Coupé will start in June 2009 and pricing is soon to be confirmed.

So what does the C250 Prime Edition get you? In addition to the fancy oilburner, the Prime also has low rolling-resistance tires, some aero tweaks to the exterior, a 6-speed manual gearbox, special power steering that saps less energy and an efficiency monitor that provides feedback to the driver (read: shift light). One of the 5,000 C250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Editions will run you the equivalent of about $58,000; no word on US availability.

C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition: Efficiency and driving pleasure on a new plane

Mercedes-Benz is set to launch a completely new diesel engine generation starting in the autumn of 2008. For its world premiere, the Stuttgart-based car manufacturer will unveil a C-Class model with this new four-cylinder engine. In the C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition, this engine produces, with its 2.2 litres of displacement, 150 kW / 204 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The premiere model can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.0 seconds, on the way to its top speed of 250 km/h. Notwithstanding these exceptional performance figures, the Prime Edition only consumes an average of 5.2 litres of fuel per 100 km (NEDC), with CO2 emissions of 138 g/km. The engine impresses with its eager responsiveness and smoothness of operation, which can make it a sensible alternative to the higher-displacement six-cylinder engines in future.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a great favourite with the public. Since its official market launch on March 31 2007, over 400,000 buyers have opted for a saloon or an estate from this model series. As a result of this, the C-Class has maintained its position as world-wide market leader in its segment. The new C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition adds a further highlight to this successful model series which has already received numerous distinctions. With the new diesel engine, which celebrates its world premiere in this model, Mercedes-Benz shows that frugal consumption and high output - and with them both environmentally-friendly driving and driving pleasure - can be mutually compatible.

Exemplary figures in terms of power output, consumption and emission characteristics

A displacement of 2143 cc, 150 kW / 204 hp, and 500 Nm of torque - these are the engine's key figures. Figures that place this newly-developed four-cylinder diesel engine in the top position among the diesel engines of its class. At the same time, in the C 250 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition, the engine consumes on average just 5.2 litres of fuel per hundred kilometres (NEDC), a value achieved by no other comparable motor car.

Apart from exceptional power output figures, the new powerplant offers significantly improved torque build-up from low engine speeds, compared to its predecessor model. The benefit of this is that in everyday driving situations it enables low-consumption driving at low engine speeds. In addition, the new engine will assume market leadership in terms of untreated exhaust emissions. Already today, it complies with the future EU5 emissions standards and, beyond that, has the potential to comply with the EU6 and BIN5 standards as well.

Exemplary figures in terms of power output, consumption and emission characteristics are achieved by the new engine thanks to the implementation of a whole package of innovative technologies. This includes among other things:

* a maximum ignition pressure of 200 bar,

* fourth-generation common-rail technology with a rail pressure increased by 400 bar to 2000 bar, as well as a new piezo-injector concept with direct nozzle needle control for greater flexibility in injection timing, leading to smoother running of the engine,

* larger, variable oil spray nozzles and variable water pump,

* dual-stage supercharging.

Another design innovation is the camshaft drive positioned at the rear. This way, with a north-south installation design and engine bonnet rising towards the rear, it is possible to comply even better with pedestrian protection regulations.

A promising future for the new four-cylinder diesel engine

For an engine of its displacement, it is exceptionally compact, so that it can be fitted in different installation spaces. Beginning in 2008, this new four-cylinder diesel engine will replace four of the existing diesel engines at Mercedes-Benz. It can be installed either lengthways or crossways in various model series, and several power rating variants will be available. Apart from the C-Class, the engine will also be installed in the E-Class, in the new GLK-Class and in the future E‑Class Coupé. With its impressive output figures, the new engine will replace higher-displacement engines in heavier vehicles, where it will be able to reduce consumption effectively through this "downsizing".

Ingenious fine detail work reduces consumption

In the Mercedes-Benz C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition the new diesel engine is combined with a sporty six-speed manual transmission with overdrive. This, too, contributes to the great efficiency of the model. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz engineers have drawn up an additional package of measures in order to achieve the most exceptional consumption figures. The package includes among other things:

* aerodynamic finishing touches, with particularly airflow-enhancing exterior-mirror housings as well as smooth underbody cladding;

* newly developed tyres that reduce rolling resistance by 10 percent;

* an efficient energy-management system with adaptive power steering, which with the help of an additional valve, closes the flow of the power-steering pump when it is not required.

Useful information: new gearshift and consumption display on dashboard

Experience from Mercedes-Benz eco-training shows that the driver, too, can save fuel by adopting an energy-conscious style of driving - and also do that without compromising driving pleasure. In the C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition a newly-developed gearshift display on the dashboard assists the driver by informing him of the best moment to shift gear in order to save fuel. In addition to this gearshift recommendation, the instrument cluster shows the precise current fuel consumption.

Sporty genes, state-of-the-art engineering, extensive equipment and appointments

The basis of the new C 250 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition is the C-Class Saloon of the AVANTGARDE equipment line, in which the sporting genes of the Mercedes-Benz brand come particularly to the fore, most noticeably in the radiator grille with its distinctive louvres and the large, centrally positioned Mercedes star. Among car connoisseurs this design element has been seen, for a long time, as a typical badge of the sportier Mercedes models. Now, in the AVANTGARDE models of the C-Class for the first time the star graces a saloon, as an unmistakable expression of the vehicle's inherent strengths: agility, power and performance, without at the same time neglecting other time-tested C-Class attributes such as safety and long-distance comfort. Aluminium interior trim (optional: bird’s-eye maple) and other stylish details accentuate the sporty, effortlessly superior appearance of this model.

The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition is equipped with 16-inch light-alloy wheels and 205/55 R16 tyres as standard - in addition to this, 16-inch light-alloy wheels in sporty 7-spoke design (likewise 205/55 R16 tyres) and 17-inch light-alloy wheels in 5-twin-spoke design with wide-base tyres (225/45 R17 at front, 205/40 R17 at rear) are available as no-cost options.

Naturally, all the pioneering technical systems of the C-Class are on board as well: for instance, the AGILITY CONTROL package with situation-responsive shock absorber control, the Intelligent Light System with five different lighting functions and the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system.

The extensive standard equipment also includes the Audio 20 infotainment system. This features, among other things, a keypad to enter telephone numbers and radio frequencies, as well as a Bluetooth interface that connects the mobile phone wirelessly with the hands-free feature. Floormats with the lettering "Prime Edition" draw attention to the special status of the new model.

Prime Edition limited to 5000 units

The C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition model can be delivered in obsidian black, palladium silver or iridium silver. It is also optionally available in the special paint finish diamond white metallic. The sporty appearance can be emphasised even more forcefully with the optional AMG sports package, which includes distinctively-styled front and rear aprons as well as side skirts.

Production of the C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition is limited to 5000 units. It is a consummate performer in terms of its sportiness, environmental protection and economic efficiency. Its price (including VAT) is 40,638.50 euros.

[eMercedesBenz]

The new Mercedes-Benz CLC: Sports Coupé with fun factor Stuttgart - Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a stand-alone model series in the guise of the new CLC, the compelling entry-level model in the Mercedes-Benz coupé family. The Sports Coupé's design, technology and equipment meet the discerning requirements of young drivers looking for an athletic car that gives an involving drive, while at the same time delivering the hallmark Mercedes quality standards in terms of safety, comfort, environmental compatibility and functionality. Compared with the previous Sports Coupé, the Mercedes engineers have newly developed or enhanced over 1100 components. Engineering highlights of the CLC include a new direct-steer system for even more agile cornering, state-of-the-art infotainment systems featuring a colour display, Europe-wide DVD or hard-disc navigation and media interface, as well as an uprated four-cylinder engine that now develops 135 kW/184 hp. Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 10.8 percent compared with the outgoing model. The compact body dimensions and the muscular lines emphasise the sporty appearance of the new CLC. The Mercedes designers have completely redesigned the front and rear so that the Sports Coupé embodies the contemporary Mercedes design idiom with its distinctive coupé radiator grille featuring a large Mercedes star in the centre, and the new projection-beam headlamps. The S-Class, the luxury CL-Class Coupé and the C-Class provided the stylistic models. The redesigned large tailgate conceals a variable boot with up to 1100 litres of luggage capacity. The new tail lights, the long row of LEDs which make up the third brake light unit and the rear bumper subdivide the rear and emphasise its width. The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz CLC is akin to a contemporary tailor-made suit - custom-fit and comfortable. Sports seats with better lateral support than ever, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control and brushed aluminium trim elements form part of the standard specification. A choice of seat covers in black, alpaca grey and a particularly stylish combination of black and red are available to give the interior its individual colour scheme. Sports package with new direct-steer system and 18-inch wheels Mercedes-Benz has put together the sports package for drivers looking for sporting flair. It includes exclusive engineering innovations and equipment extras such as 18-inch light-alloy wheels, wide-base tyres, headlamps with black inner surrounds, sports suspension with lowered body, leather sports steering wheel and dark brushed aluminium trim elements. Another special feature which the CLC inherits from its racing car counterparts is the instrument cluster with red needles for the speedometer and rev counter. Once the engine is switched on, these needles spin once around the dial before returning to their start positions. The standard specification for the sports package includes a new direct-steer system, which further enhances the agile driving experience of the CLC while adding an important boost to safety. This new feature is based on the speed-sensitive power steering and also offers a variable rack ratio which changes as a function of the steering angle so that the driver only has to turn the wheel slightly when cornering; the Sports Coupé therefore responds far more spontaneously to steering commands and offers even sportier handling. As a result, the direct-steer system also improves handling safety in critical situations - for instance when taking sudden evasive action - as the field tests conducted by the Mercedes engineers demonstrate. Engines: fuel consumption reduced by up to 10.8 percent Mercedes-Benz offers four four-cylinder and two six-cylinder engines with power outputs ranging from 90 kW/122 hp to 200 kW/272 hp for the new CLC. The 135 kW/184 hp powerplant in the CLC 200 KOMPRESSOR now develops an extra 15 kW/20 hp while consuming just 7.8 to 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the NEDC cycle - the equivalent of up to 0.7 litres less than before. In consumption terms, with its advanced turbodiesel engines, the CLC falls into the five-litre category: the CLC 200 CDI returns a consumption of 5.8 to 6.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the NEDC cycle, up to 10.8 percent less than the outgoing model. The CDI models boast operating ranges of over 1000 kilometres with a full tank (62 litres). The six-speed manual transmission comes as standard with all engine variants. Mercedes-Benz can also supply a five-speed automatic transmission for the four‑cylinder units, and the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission for the V6 models. In combination with the sports package, the driver can use gearshift paddles on the steering wheel to select the gears of the automatic transmission manually and make optimum use of the engines' high power reserves when the driving situation calls for it. Infotainment: state-of-the-art technology for navigation and musical enjoyment on wheels The Mercedes engineers have developed a new generation of infotainment units for the CLC, bringing luxury-class cutting-edge technology to the Sports Coupé as of September 2008. Three units are available, offering a superb combination of colour display, twin tuner, speed-sensitive volume control and Bluetooth mobile phone interface. An iPod, USB stick or other external audio devices can now also be connected to the infotainment system. A new universal media interface (optional extra) links these devices to the on-board electronics and the Sports Coupé's control system, allowing the iPod tracks to be displayed in the instrument cluster and on the colour screen in the centre console. Tracks can then be selected conveniently using the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel. The new Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS units come with a Europe-wide DVD or hard-disc navigation system. The LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system, which Mercedes-Benz has upgraded with a new whole-word recognition capability, is fitted as standard if the integrated six-disc DVD changer is specified. LINGUATRONIC enables the driver to conveniently operate the telephone, audio and navigation system. Success story: Sports Coupé with extensive conquest potential The new CLC is the successor to a successful Mercedes model that boasts some 320,000 drivers around the world to its name since 2001. The majority of these were new Mercedes customers. Its high conquest rate of some 70 percent made the Sports Coupé one of the most successful models in the Mercedes strategic product initiative. With the help of a compelling two-door model, the Stuttgart-based car maker has managed to fire customers' imagination over the long term. Over 40 percent of buyers opted for a larger Mercedes model after the Sports Coupé and are currently driving an E-Class, CLK or an SLK. Thanks to its sophisticated design, high-quality equipment and appointments, and enhanced technology, the new Mercedes-Benz CLC offers even more conquest potential than its predecessor. The public will get the chance to take a close look at the Sports Coupé for the first time at the European Mercedes sales and service outlets and authorised dealerships in June 2008.

I started thinking about this on the drive in this morning, when I saw three GLs on the highway, each with one occupant and — as it happened — each occupant weighing approximately 110 pounds. And blond. What is it about Mercedes-Benz and blonds?

So, let's put each of these coeds in a vehicle that gets 36% better fuel economy. Have we solved much? No, because they are still operating vehicles twice or thrice the size required to move their scrawny bits of protoplasm from point A to point B. And let's not kid ourselves. That's what duty these harlots of petroleum are destined to perform. Very few people are going to tow a boat or go off-road in a GL320 CDI.

The US states with the most stringent emissions requirements — California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont — say Mercedes's E320 Bluetec is not clean enough for prime time. That's a kick in the tailpipe to Merc, which in a recent press release called the E320 CDI the "cleanest diesel vehicle in the world." The problem is, diesel generates more nitrogen oxide gases than gas engines, and although Mercedes's Bluetec system uses a combination of scrubbers in the car's exhaust system — an oxidizing catalytic converter, a particulate filter and a denox storage converter that absorbs nitrogen oxides temporarily — it's just not quite enough. The company also has a separate system, called AdBlue, that injects urea (yeah, that one) into the exhaust, splitting nitrogen oxides into hydrogen and H20, but that system isn't commercially available. What does the blow mean for Mercedes, which needs to sell the E-Class diesel in those states to make a viable business case? No word yet, but a spokesperson reportedly said, "piss off."

Snafu: New Mercedes Diesels Ruled Illegal in Five Key States [Edmunds]

Mercedes-Benz E320 BLUETEC Debuts in New York; More Diesels for US Lineup [Green Car Congress]

Related:
Mercedes Reveals 2007 E-Class [internal]