The current Mercedes-Benz CLK is something of an enigma - built around the C-Class platform, styled like the E-Class, and priced in between the two, the car sits in its own unique segment and has no direct competition from its German rivals. Its sales history has been a strong success, especially in the U.S., but reports are surfacing that the German carmaker is planning to end the CLK name and instead brand its successor as an ‘E-Class’ Coupe and Convertible.
In the press release for the new ConceptFASCINATION Mercedes-Benz states that its designers are working on a ‘future E-Class Coupe.’ This goes towards explaining why Mercedes would drop such an important nameplate - the main reason is that the car’s successor will be based on the same platform that will underpin the next-generation E-Class due next year.
Meanwhile, near production-ready test mules for the E-Class Coupe and Cabrio have been spotted near Mercedes headquarters in Germany and now these latest renderings give us a clue as to what the final car will look like. As expected, the car draws heavily from the recent ConceptFASCINATION, while in keeping with its more upmarket positioning a new folding metal roof will come standard with the Cabrio.
Powertrains should include the new 272hp (203kW) 3.5L V6 engine as well as Mercedes’ 5.5L V8 for the E500 Coupe flagship. An even more powerful AMG version is guaranteed; sporting a 481hp (359kW) version of the hand built 6.2L V8 engine. The E-Class Coupe will be offered with optional 4Matic AWD and could possibly come with a new mild-hybrid option further down the track.
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