New Mercedes E-Class Coupe and Convertible due on sale next month
Mercedes launches facelifted E-Class derivatives with updated styling and new technology
- Refreshed styling and interiors
- 429bhp E53 AMG models top the range
- First deliveries scheduled for early autumn
The Mercedes E-Class Coupe and Convertible models have now been revealed, following the facelifted Mercedes E-Class saloon and estate last month. You’ll be able to order the new models in late June and cars will start to reach customers a couple of months later. Prices will start from around £46,000 for the coupe and £48,000 for the fabric-roofed convertible.
2020 Mercedes E-Class Coupe and Convertible styling
In a bid to keep the E-Class Coupe and Convertible fresh against the Audi A5, BMW 4 Series and Lexus RC, the new models will get updated styling in line with the rest of the E-Class range. The headlights, grille and air intakes are all new, while the design of the rear lights has been tweaked. Another alloy wheel choice and four new paint colours are available: two silvers, a grey and a red.
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Interior and technology
Buyers will notice a new steering wheel that’s set to be shared with the forthcoming Mercedes S-Class. Not only does it feature a striking new design, but you no longer need to steer when the car is in its self-driving mode - although you do have to keep your hands on the wheel. Mercedes has also refreshed the MBUX infotainment system, which is displayed on screens measuring either 10.25 or 12.3 inches, depending on spec.
The E-Class range gains a new ‘Urban Guard’ system, which provides surveillance when the car is unattended. Working with a smartphone app, it will notify you if the car has been damaged, stolen or towed. It’s a similar system to the Sentry mode you get on a Tesla Model S. Elsewhere, the ‘Energising’ package (which automatically adjusts the lighting, music and air con to suit the driver) now connects to your smartwatch, so it can look at your heart rate, stress level and how much sleep you’ve had. There are also new trim options.
Engines and driving
Mercedes has fettled with the E-Class’ engine range, and the entry-level E 220 d now features mild-hybrid technology to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. It now manages up to 60.1mpg in the coupe and 57.6mpg in the convertible, but still cracks 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds and will top out at 150mph.
Above that is the 3.0-litre E 400 d, which gains a litre in size, two extra cylinders and 143bhp (up to 335bhp). With the extra power and standard 4MATIC four-wheel drive, you can expect 45.6mpg (coupe) or 44.8mpg (convertible). Petrol engines are available in 194bhp E 200 and 254bhp E 300 flavours, with four-wheel drive fitted on the former but rear-drive on the latter.
Above that is the 268bhp E 450 and the 429bhp Mercedes-AMG E 53. Both are assisted by mild-hybrid technology which will slightly improve fuel economy, but the fact that both hit 0-62mph in under five seconds shows the focus is firmly on performance. An even faster Mercedes-AMG E 63 is set to rejoin the range at a later date.
What does it mean for car buyers?
The styling and interior of the facelifted models may look a little more modern, but the pre-facelift cars are hardly outdated. Mercedes is offering discounts on these models (up to £4,000 on the convertible) and going through a franchised dealer might get you an even better price. If you’re looking at the E-Class range, we’d recommend considering whether having the updated model is important to you, as you’ll probably be able to get the previous version for less.
See where the Mercedes E-Class Convertible lands on our list of the best convertibles.
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