The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé is the third body style in the line-up and undoubtedly the most attractive looking. Clearly we'd all love to go for the fire-breathing C 63 model, but the vast majority sold in Ireland will be powered by a diesel engine. Thankfully, Mercedes has done some work on the venerable 2.1-litre unit and in the C 250 d reviewed here it's a good all-round choice that mixes performance, refinement and low running costs in equal measure.
In the metal 4.5/5
While the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon divides opinion with its S-Class alike rear styling, the new C-Class Coupé seems to draw universal praise. It takes all that is attractive and elegant about the S-Class Coupé and shrinks it a bit. Not that it's a small car. It's 95mm longer than its predecessor and 40mm wider, aiding its proportions as well as interior space. Helping the stance further is a 15mm lower ride height than the C-Class Saloon, with a minimum alloy wheel size of 17 inches. Assuming that Irish market models mimic those in the rest of Europe there will be an AMG Line option (not the same thing as the full-on Mercedes-AMG C 63 car) that enhances the exterior further with a distinctive 'diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome', 18-inch alloys and an attractive body kit. Presumably the impressively low coefficient of drag Mercedes quotes for the C-Class Coupé (0.26) applies to one of the more demure models.
Inside, the high quality look and feel of the regular C-Class has been carried over, though the Coupé gets a few unique touches, such as the new seats front and rear and an electronic arm to pass the front seat occupants their seatbelts. Rear seat space is adequate for the class rather than impressive, but the boot is a good shape and size.
Driving it 4/5
I must admit to dreading driving this C 250 d model before hopping in. Previous experience with the venerable old 2.1-litre turbodiesel engine resulted in our unanimous conclusion that it's a noisy and unrefined powerplant badly in need of replacement. But I should have remembered how quiet it was in the new Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV and lessons learned in that car's development appear to be incorporated in the C-Class Coupé to good effect, as the engine is pleasantly subdued here too. Only when you extend it to the redline does it sound a little uncouth, but it's a distant noise rather than one that dominates the experience. And anyway, there's 500Nm of torque available from just 1,600rpm, so there's no need to use the whole rev counter. The nine-speed automatic is a perfect partner and this is the smoothest implementation of this transmission we've driven yet.
This relaxed gait really suits the C-Class Coupé, and first impressions suggest that the suspension is up to the job of maintaining decorum. We'll reserve final judgement on that until we review a less generously specified vehicle on Irish roads, as all test cars at the international launch were equipped with Airmatic air suspension will adaptive damping. For the record, this works a treat, with a bias towards comfort. The steering is direct, the brakes strong and body control exceptional. The C-Class Coupé is perhaps not quite as engaging as the equivalent BMW 4 Series Coupé, but it's probably a better all-rounder.
What you get for your money n/a
The new C-Class Coupé model starts at €44,550. We believe that the C 220 d and C 250 d will be the most popular models in Ireland, though the entry level petrol variants, the C 180 and C 200, could do well too. Above those will be the C 250 and C 350, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine in various states of tune.
Alternatives
Audi A5 Coupé: nothing especially wrong with it, but due for replacement shortly - less luxurious feeling than the Mercedes.
BMW 4 Series Coupé: the Merc's biggest direct rival, but Mercedes has the edge right now in terms of luxury and refinement.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé: depending on how much you plan to spend on your coupé, there's a little overlap between the C-Class and E-Class Coupé line-ups. Getting on, but still really comfortable.
Summary
Priority one for coupé buyers is image and the new Mercedes C-Class Coupé nails that with a gorgeous exterior and an elegant cabin. It's more spacious and comfortable than its predecessor was and in C 250 d guise it's efficient too. Contrary to expectations, this model is also remarkably refined. A classy new option in the executive coupé segment.