The 2010 Mercedes Benz E-Class Coupe is a distinctive luxury vehicle, distinguishable from its older relatives and competitors. With its extroverted design, timeless looks and refined handling, the E Coupe shakes the “friendly Coupe look” and delivers a sportier edge.

The E Coupe is slightly longer, wider and lower than its predecessor CLK, yet quite shorter, narrower and lower and significantly lighter than the sedan (almost 400 pounds lighter to be exact). Its sleek, tailored proportions and paneled body design are everything you would expect from a sports-orientated luxury coupe. The once bubbly-looking headlights have been replaced by sharper, angular twin headlights and sides are characterized by rising, sculptural lines which extend from front to rear. The curved tarmac roof has been maintained, as has the large tri-star on the front chrome grill of the vehicle. Most notably, the lower fascia has a much more aggressive appearance, giving the E Coupe more attitude than other models.

Internally, the E Coupe integrates a luxury aesthetic that is in keeping with the genes of the Mercedes Benz family. Black leather interior with cross-stitching comes as standard. The interior is characterized by sculpted seats featuring leather fronts and spine-contoured backs. Visually pleasing yet functional, the seats have internal air chambers to support the lower back and maximize comfort. Even the back seats are contoured and pleasantly, the back headrests don’t retreat into the rear shelf. Seat adjustment is electric, with memory as an optional extra. Furthermore, the rear seats fold flat together or in split configuration. With the seats up, the cargo volume is significantly larger than the CLK – five cubic feet to be exact. Even with the seats down, golf bags and cases of wine can be easily stowed. Additionally, the easy-entry function now makes access and egress much easier for rear-seat passengers.

The great thing about the new E Coupe is the power and efficiency of the drive. The V6 model is solid without hesitation or grind. The 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque will get the lighter body to 60 in 6.2 seconds. Agility Control suspension with adaptive shock absorbers come into play for drivers who really love to floor it. This feature will keep you between the solid lines even when things get tight. The seven-speed adaptive transmission will quickly adapt and hold the gears accordingly. Its consumption figures are surprisingly low, due to its 1.8 L efficient engine concept, turbocharging and optimized CGI direct injection. For the really eco-conscious consumer, the E250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY is ideal. With a 4-cylinder inline engine and direct injection it consumes 17% less fuel, making it one of the most efficient vehicles in its class. Enjoy smoothness at any engine speed range with an output of 150 kW and a maximum torque of 310 Nm.

In terms of safety, the E-Coupe is up to par with Mercedes’ generally impeccable standards. The newly developed standard safety systems are based on accident research data to ensure protection of passengers as well as other road users. In addition to the seven standard-fit airbags, belt tensioners and belt force limiters, other comprehensive equipment includes ABS brakes, Active Bonnet, sensors, radars and camera systems. The Attention Assist (Drowsiness detector) system comes standard with the E Coupe. This system assesses factors such as steering behavior and provides warnings to drivers who may be sleepy behind the wheel. Another noteworthy safety feature is the acclaimed Pre-Safe, which is an anticipatory occupant protection system. The system detects possible dangers and potential accident situations and activates protective measures for the frontal passengers.

The new E Coupe is certainly one of the more impressive sports-oriented luxury cars. Combining the classic Mercedes Benz style with an edgier aesthetic has culminated perfectly to deliver a fresh new look for the Coupe. The extensive list of comprehensive safety features is a huge plus, not to mention the integration of so many innovative features inside. In a relatively eco-conscious society, the enhanced fuel economy of this vehicle is relatively efficient, without the sacrifice of power. A total reset from its predecessor, the new Coupe is more safe, innovative, stylish and powerful than ever.