Fridae

Britney and her CLK

Mercedes-Benz has formed a habit of keeping us on our edge with their model names, hasn’t it? There’s a mind-boggling 15 separate nameplates in its fast expanding range and that’s not including AMG models, mind you.

Oddly, after just two iterations and 11 years after introducing the CLK-class coupe, they have decided to make things “simpler”, through resurrecting the E-class coupe moniker and putting the CLK name to bed.

What on earth was Mercedes thinking when they made the switch? The last CLK’s endorsement could not get any bigger and louder than Ms Spear’s ownership. Those RAM stubborn images of the less than in control Britney nudging her CLK into another parked car as she attempts to avoid the paparazzi are priceless for Mercedes mid-sized coupe’s branding. Seemingly, there would be generations of young girls and some boys wanting a Mercedes CLK, to be just like the constantly intoxicated diva. Why put up with the risk of yet another name change?

It wasn’t as if there was a major change in the way the new E350 Coupe was conceived. This is not a two-door version of the W212 E-class sedan. Rather, as with the CLK, it bases its architecture around the C-class mechanics with an E-class mock dress. The identical wheelbase dimensions betrays its relativity to the more compact sedan even given the wider, longer, and lower bodywork.

To be fair, Mercedes clearly wants the E coupe to be seen as an E-class and so it adopts the sedan’s design cues, including quad headlamps and the Ponton-inspired rear fenders; which incidentally are excellent at masking the bulk of the E350 coupe. Perhaps most potential buyers will be swayed by the low curvy roofline, which, like that of the CLK, remains pillarless.

Complaints on the E coupe looks would be the massive wheel arches and the slightly over enthuse application of chrome. Even on 18s optional AMG alloy wheels, the E coupe feels in need of bigger shoe wear. That said, the appearance of the E coupe does triumph the current 3-series coupe, but is shaded by the Audi A5, but only just.

Inside, Mercedes continues its efforts to further instill impressions of the E-class sedan; with a similar-ish angular dashboard, switchgear and trims. Nevermind the C-class origins, as the E350 coupe’s low mounted thinly padded front seats with integrated headrests, are simply brilliant. They contribute greatly to a sporty driving position and the comparatively high waistline creates an enclosed feel. Conclusively, full marks to the E350 coupe’s cohesive and well layout cockpit, despite the snug rear bucket seats.

However, some might find the driving experience of the E coupe a hit and miss affair. The chassis is superbly sorted as there is a unique blend of control and comfort; unique spring and damper rates add a greater degree of body control without upsetting the maturity of its ride. All models come as standard with Agility Control, where the dampers are automatically optimised to the road conditions via a bypass valve that prevents the oil in each unit from surging. And the excellent body control is backed by a well weighted steering.

Before one goes into conclusion that the ultimate driving machine is in trouble, the E350 coupe’s biggest stumbling block would be the 3.5 litre V6 engine, a direct-injection unit that is wonderfully isolated from the cabin. While it is responsive via the 7-speed automatic gearbox, pretty much nothing happens below 3000rpm, which means you need to work it hard to unleash its full potential.

Still, this is enough to fire the 1670kg coupe off the line with gusto; Mercedes-Benz claims 0-100 km/h in 6.3sec. The numbers are decent but the problem is that it lacks charisma, even if you explore the upper reaches of its range.

Other than the slightly non-engaging engine, the new E350 coupe marks a quantum leap over the previous CLK, hence we shall go along with the name change. Because after all, if it does look like an E-class sedan and drives pretty well. The E350 coupe imparts an air of the sophistication and unruffled nature that truely sets it apart from its closest competitors.

And it had better be the case, considering Mercedes is charging S$277,888 for the E350 coupe. This is before picking up any options, which there are some mandatory items, if you ask us. Now Mercedes should offer Ms Bite-me Spears a E-coupe fast and hope that she and the car makes it to the tabloids yet again.