Mercedes-Benz is adding a Coupé to its C-Class family. Athletic and sporty, the vivid, sensual design of the new Coupé cuts a fine figure on the road and embodies modern luxury. At the same time, its interior raises elegance and style to a sporty level. A dynamically configured chassis, with optional air suspension, forms the basis for a high level of suspension comfort, low road roar and tyre vibration, agile handling, and driving pleasure. Lightweight construction to reduce weight, excellent aerodynamics and high-performance yet efficient engines likewise contribute to this. New assistance systems provide safety of the very highest calibre. With its high-class appeal and generous interior, the new C-Class Coupé sets new standards in its segment. It arrives in December 2015.

"Our new C-Class Coupé continues the philosophy of our exciting coupés. It combines thrilling design with agile sportiness and modern luxury. The C-Class Coupé therefore clearly pledges itself to stylish driving enjoyment," states Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

As the sportiest variant of the C-Class, the Coupé displays its driving enjoyment-oriented character in an emotive and at the same time formally distinct design. A sportily striking front section featuring diamond radiator grille and long bonnet – the new Coupé is 60 millimetres longer than its predecessor between the firewall and front axle alone – gives way to a low greenhouse whose lines flow into a bold and powerful-looking rear end incorporating the Mercedes coupé genes. A high beltline and frameless doors with free-standing exterior mirrors underscore the sporty character.

Clean lines and sensually arranged surfaces structure the side sections into vivid light and shadow effects. One particular highlight is the long drawn-out dropping line typical of a coupé. In contrast to the C-Class Saloon, the dropping line extends further past the rear wheel arch. To underscore the Coupé's sporty disposition, the suspension is 15 millimetres lower than that of the Saloon, making it a very sporty proposition when combined with the standard 17-inch tyres.

Interior: generous, dynamic, exquisite

The interior is likewise a statement of the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy and combines emotion with intelligence. Although it exudes athletic and youthful charm, it has grown in maturity. Driver and passengers enjoy an ambience that leans toward the interior of the C-Class Saloon yet raises it to a new, sporty level. Flowing forms characterise the centre console as well as the door and rear side panelling, which smoothly merge into one another to emphasise the coupé character. The individually designed trim elements underscore the sporty character of the interior. A seating system including integral sports seats designed specifically for the Coupé offers sporty comfort. Plus there is an automatic belt feeder for added convenience. The choice of materials and the finish have a hand-crafted feel with high-class appeal and deliver a new take on modern luxury: sportiness without compromising on comfort and exquisite style.

With an 80 millimetre longer wheelbase, the C-Class Coupé is 95 millimetres longer and 40 millimetres wider. The increased vehicle volume above all creates more spaciousness for the driver and front passenger. There is more shoulder room, elbow room and headroom in all seats.

The unique position of the new C-Class Coupé is emphasised by the special upholstery colour combinations: saddle brown, porcelain and – in the Edition 1 – nut brown/black with turquoise topstitching.

Individual highlights

The Coupé features a wealth of equipment as standard. The AMG Line is available as an alternative to further underline the dynamism of the Coupé. It differs by virtue of exterior features such as special bumpers and sills featuring AMG bodystyling, a diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome and 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. Interior highlights of the AMG Line include sportily exclusive touches such as upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black with contrasting topstitching, a multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and AMG sports pedals. The trim in open-pore black ash, combined with aluminium in the dashboard and the doors, emphasises the look.

Another eye-catching feature is the optional Interior Chrome package featuring numerous highlights shrouded in silver chrome, including the instrument cluster, the air vents and the door openers.

Suspension – sportily agile and comfortable

The suspension offers a high level of comfort with low road roar and tyre vibration whilst ensuring agile driving dynamics – the basis for driving enjoyment.

A new 4-link front axle with wheel suspension decoupled from the spring strut plays a part in the agile handling characteristics. This enables sporty axle kinematics for plenty of grip and high lateral stability. As a result, the suspension responds more sensitively to steering movements and allows a sporty, agile driving style. Multi-link independent rear suspension with 5 links ensures excellent wheel location qualities and supreme straight-line stability.

The Coupé comes with steel suspension as standard. There are two variants with selective damping system available in conjunction with this suspension, each of which is 15 millimetres lower than on the Saloon:

Comfortable AGILITY CONTROL suspension with a sporty character
Sports suspension with tauter springing and damping including Sports Direct-Steer system for even more agile handling
Air suspension

The Coupé comes with the option of AIRMATIC air suspension on the front and rear axle. Its electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping on the front and rear axle ensures outstanding road roar and tyre vibration characteristics in every situation and gives the driver the option of selecting the desired driving style: sporty, comfortable or consumption-optimised. To this end, the driver can select one of five driving modes using the DYNAMIC SELECT Switch: "ECO", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +" and "Individual". Selecting "Individual" allows the driver to customise the vehicle settings. AIRMATIC also features all-round self-levelling for excellent ride comfort even with the vehicle loaded.

Efficient and lively engines

Powerful and efficient four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with ECO start/stop function provide for sporty performance and driving pleasure. All are compliant with the Euro 6 emissions standard. Compared with the predecessor they consume up to 20 percent less fuel.

There are initially four petrol engines available for the Coupé. The power spectrum ranges from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine in the C 180 with 115 kW/156 hp to the two-litre C 200 (135 kW/184 hp) and C 250 (155 kW/211 hp) models and the C 300, likewise with a displacement of two litres but with an output of 180 kW/245 hp.

The two diesel models are equipped with an enhanced four-cylinder unit developing 125 kW (170 hp) or 150 kW (204 hp) and feature ecofriendly SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for exhaust gas aftertreatment.

Lighter, stiffer and stronger

Intelligent lightweight construction with a higher proportion of aluminium helps make the Coupé lighter than its predecessor. Light-alloy components include the wings, bonnet and boot lid. At the same time, the body is now much stiffer and stronger thanks to the use of high-strength materials, which has a positive effect on not only driving dynamics and noise levels but also crash safety. The Coupé therefore follows a Mercedes-Benz tradition in not only meeting all current national and international laws, but also all rating requirements as well as the more stringent internal Mercedes-Benz safety requirements, which are based on what actually happens in real-life accidents.

Through the wind

Mercedes-Benz is setting the pace in the field of aerodynamics and delivers cars with the best drag coefficients (Cd values) in almost all vehicle classes. The new C-Class Coupé boasts a Cd value of 0.26. This leading figure pays off above all when driving on country roads and motorways as wind resistance is greater than other forms of driving resistance at speeds above 70 km/h.

Safe semi-autonomous driving to reduce stress

There are several safety and assistance systems based on the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive concept to choose from. ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, is included as standard. Further standard equipment includes COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which features an acoustic warning for the driver at speeds above 7 km/h and Adaptive Brake Assist to help avoid collisions by boosting the braking effect in line with the current situation. When a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200 km/h, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles or, in the best-case scenario, even avoiding the collision altogether. At speeds of up to 50 km/h the system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles, and is thus able to help prevent rear-end collisions at up to 40 km/h.

New assistance systems with substantially enhanced functions are optionally available, combining data from various sensor technologies such as radar sensors and a stereo camera as part of the Intelligent Drive concept to enhance comfort and safety:

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot is an adaptive cruise control system that can adjust the speed of the vehicle in line with a slower-moving vehicle ahead in a speed range from 0 to 200 km/h if required. Likewise available from 0 to 200 km/h, steering intervention helps the driver stay in lane. And at speeds below 130 km/h, for example in traffic jams or when driving bumper to bumper, the system can follow the vehicle ahead even where there are no or unclear lane markings, thus enabling the driver to safety and comfortably follow the flow of traffic.

As well as vehicles ahead and stationary vehicles, the BAS PLUS Brake Assist System can also detect crossing traffic and boost the braking force if the driver fails to apply the brakes sufficiently; in addition to slower-moving, stopping and stationary vehicles, the PRE-SAFE® Brake can even detect pedestrians and brake autonomously if the driver fails to react, thus preventing accidents up to 50 km/h and mitigating the severity of collisions at speeds of up to 72 km/h. In flowing traffic the PRE-SAFE® Brake provides assistance according to the same mode of operation throughout the speed range from 7 to 200 km/h.

Enhanced Active Lane Keeping Assist can now also prevent the vehicle from unintentionally drifting out of lane by applying the brakes on one side when the lane markings are solid or broken and there is a risk of collision, e.g. as a result of vehicles overtaking at high speed, parallel traffic or even oncoming traffic.

PRE-SAFE® PLUS extends the Intelligent Drive functions to take account of imminent rear impacts. It warns the following traffic by activating the rear hazard warning lights at increased frequency and initiating preventive PRE-SAFE® occupant protection measures such as the reversible belt tensioner immediately prior to the impact. If the vehicle is stationary, the brakes are locked to reduce the forward jolt, which reduces the forces acting on the occupants and the risk of secondary collisions.

The numerous assistance systems also include

- Active Parking Assist, which enables semi-automated parking with active steering and brake intervention in both parallel and end-on parking spaces
- A 360° camera which is able to show the vehicle and its surroundings from various perspectives, including a virtual bird's-eye view, thus assisting with parking and manoeuvring
- Camera and navigation-based Traffic Sign Assist with wrong-way warning function, which warns of speed limits and also alerts the driver to the start and end of no-overtaking zones and gives the driver a visual and audible warning if no-entry signs are detected
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, which allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the cone of light from the high-beam headlamps
Airbags for safety

In addition to 3-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and rear passengers, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. These include:

- Frontal protection systems: Adaptive front airbags for driver and front passenger, additionally with a kneebag on the driver's side
- Side protection systems: Thorax/pelvisbags for driver and front passenger plus front and rear windowbags, with rear sidebags available as an option

Climate control with satellite navigation

The air conditioning system in the new C-Class Coupé operates efficiently and ensures high air quality. As in the Saloon, it uses satellite navigation to detect tunnels. It therefore closes the air recirculation flap automatically when entering a tunnel and opens it again after exiting a tunnel.

Vibrant infotainment experience

The new multimedia generation offers intuitive controls with visual animations and effects. Frontbass ensures a listening experience almost on a par with a concert hall – especially if the optionally available Burmester® sound system is specified. The Frontbass system uses the space within the cross-member and side member in the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers.

The navigation system, which supplies the driver with precise traffic information in real time (Live Traffic Information), processes its contents interactively. Its features include an animated compass, a "Drive Show" with information for passengers similar to the on-screen presentations on board airliners and Google Maps displayed on the head unit.

Extensive networking even in the basic version

A Bluetooth®-compatible mobile phone with data option is all it takes to make even the Audio 20 system internet-capable. This enables surfing the internet without restrictions when the vehicle is stationary.

Mercedes-Benz Apps can be used while driving. Audio and video playback is possible from various sources.
COMAND Online provides not only a larger display with a resolution of 960 x 540 pixels, it also allows digital TV/radio reception and, in addition to many other features, offers fast hard-disc navigation, integral WLAN hotspot functionality and the LINGUATRONIC voice control system.

The basic Audio 20 system as well as Audio 20 CD and COMAND Online all offer basic telephony as standard, which links up a mobile phone to the vehicle via a standardised Bluetooth® interface.

Mercedes connect me: connected with the car

Like other models, the new C-Class Coupé has an extensive range of free Standard Services and Remote Online Services available as part of the "Mercedes connect me" package. Standard Services include automatic emergency call (eCall), Accident Recovery, breakdown assistance and after-sales service. The Remote Online services (standard with COMAND online and usable free of charge for the first three years) allow access to vehicle information at all times, including the status of windows and doors, mileage, tyre pressures and other diagnostic data. There is also a Vehicle Tracker function, remote door locking and unlocking, and remote auxiliary heating activation and deactivation.

Mercedes-AMG is setting a further landmark in the brand history: the new C 63 Coupé is the next step on the way to yet more technical and visual distinctiveness. The far-reaching technical modifications are evident at first sight: strikingly flared front and rear wheel arches, an increased track width and larger wheels give the Coupé a muscular look while at the same time providing a basis for the highly agile longitudinal and lateral dynamics. The brand's typical "Driving Performance" is taken to new heights also with the C 63 Coupé. The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with 350 kW (476 hp) or 375 kW (510 hp) is just as much a completely in-house development from Affalterbach as, for example, the sophisticated AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, the set-up of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the rear-axle limited-slip differential or the dynamic engine mounts.

The C-Class is Mercedes-AMG's best-selling model series and forms the backbone of the company's success. Since its launch in 2011, the Coupé version has steadily gained in significance, culminating with the C 63 AMG Coupé "Black Series". "The new C 63 Coupé embodies our conception of progress: It offers impressive longitudinal and lateral dynamics at an extremely high level along with improved fuel economy," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "In addition, we are making a bold visual statement with the muscular design. Our customers can therefore experience the progress with each of their senses: seeing, hearing, feeling and, above all, driving!" The Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupé will celebrate its world premiere on 15 September 2015 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA). The market launch will begin in March 2016.

Fascinating design visualises outstanding performance

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupé already fascinates at first glance with its impressive proportions. The expressive exterior design differs significantly from the Mercedes-Benz model, which shares merely the same doors, roof and boot lid. The powerful 8-cylinder engine, together with the increased track width on the front and rear axles, calls for a redesigned front end and a model-specific rear assembly as well as new side walls. The flared wheel arches make the AMG Coupé 64 millimetres wider at the front and 66 millimetres wider at the rear, enabling the vehicle to hug the road better.

The larger wheel arches allow the use of wider tyres (up to 255 millimetres on the front axle and up to 285 millimetres on the rear axle), contributing to improved lateral acceleration, traction and agility. Under the outer skin, the body structure has been reinforced in key areas to transfer and compensate the extreme longitudinal and lateral forces from the powertrain and suspension. There is also the model-specific rear axle carrier.

The 60-millimetre-longer aluminium bonnet is adorned by two distinctive powerdomes, which are among the typical distinguishing features and underscore the muscular appearance. The extremely wide front section is characterised by large air inlets and precisely positioned flics. The low, arrow-shaped "twin blade" radiator grille with AMG lettering visually lowers the vehicle's centre of gravity. The typical AMG "A-wing" front spoiler is three-dimensional, also serving as an air deflector for the three cooling air inlets. Additional flics ensure an optimal flow of air to the cooling modules. And a front splitter at the bottom of the front apron helps to reduce front-axle lift.

The side line, too, presents an entirely unique face thanks to the large wheels, which finish flush with the body on the far outside, and the special side skirts. The lateral inward step from door to sill lends additional emphasis to the wide base. Added benefit of the newly designed body elements: no compromises were required with regard to the connection of the aprons and other components: every joint and light-catching contour blends in harmoniously with the overall design. In the diagonal view from behind, the muscular line from roof to shoulder via side wall and wheel cutout looks especially impressive, lending emphasis to the impression of an intricately modelled sculpture with alternating light reflections. Fine detail: in typical sports car fashion, the exterior rear-view mirrors are mounted on the door rather than in the mirror triangle.

Taking its inspiration from the S-Class Coupé, the completely redesigned rear end includes a diffuser insert that revives a typical feature from the world of motor sport. The special design of the laterally positioned, optical air outlet openings improves the rear air flow, allowing it to break away with aerodynamically advantageous precision. Features such as the narrow rear reflectors reinforce the impression of width. The two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG exhaust system are perfectly integrated into the diffuser. The boot lid includes a narrow spoiler lip in the form of a sharp blade. It not only looks elegant, but also significantly reduces the rear-axle lift.

Interior with superior perceived quality

Carefully selected, high-grade materials with a pleasant touch and precision workmanship produce a level of perceived quality that is rare even in higher vehicle classes. Numerous AMG-specific controls underscore the motor sport heritage. As an alternative to the standard sports seats in ARTICO/microfibre DINAMICA man-made leather, Performance seats are also available: these allow the occupants a lower seating position and are more strongly contoured for increased lateral support.

Top on performance

Also as regards its engine, the C 63 Coupé occupies an exceptional status among the competition, being the only vehicle in the segment to boast an 8-cylinder biturbo engine. Mercedes-AMG thus meets the wishes of those customers who desire a combination of a highly emotive, unmistakable engine sound and torquey power delivery.

The driver also benefits from the unrivalled performance: the C 63 S Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, the C 63 Coupé in 4.0 seconds. This makes the Coupé just a fraction faster than the Saloon - thanks to the wider tyres and shorter-legged rear-axle ratios. The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited; 290 km/h with AMG Driver's Package).

New V8 biturbo closely related to the engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT

The 4.0-litre 8-cylinder biturbo engine is already used in the C 63 Saloon and the C 63 Estate. It is also installed in the GT sports car with dry sump lubrication. Characteristic feature: the two turbochargers are positioned not on the outside of the cylinder banks, but between them in the "V" – experts call this a "hot inside V". The main advantages of this design are the compact engine construction, optimal response and low exhaust gas emissions.

Exhaust system with flap technology for variable engine sound

The typical V8 engine sound was likewise a key development goal. It was specially tailored to the Coupé. A model-specific exhaust system with flap technology is used as standard. It is automatically map-controlled depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode, the power demanded by the driver and the engine speed. The engine sound varies between discreet/suitable for long-distance driving and robust/emotively appealing. Optionally available is the Performance exhaust system, which allows the sound to be modulated at the press of a button. In any case, the exhaust systems are so designed that all noise limits are at all times complied with irrespective of the flap position.

Faster gearshifts: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

The transmission plays a major part in the direct and sporty character of the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupé. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its tailor-made dynamics and high variability. Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, upshifts and downshifts are executed noticeably faster than in the previous model. This increased spontaneity is made possible by an even sportier set-up of the engine and transmission parameters.

Specially developed suspension for maximum lateral and longitudinal dynamics

The fascinating agility and high cornering speed of the C 63 Coupé are also thanks to the completely redesigned suspension. A four-link front suspension with radial, racing-style brake connections is used. Model-specific steering knuckles and a wider track allow greater lateral acceleration. The rear axle, too, was completely newly developed for the Coupé. The multi-link concept impresses with highly precise wheel control and increased stiffness. The AMG-specific rear axle carrier makes the increased track width possible; the contact surfaces of the wheel bearings were moved a further 25 millimetres towards the outside in comparison with the Saloon. Other measures include AMG-specific wheel carriers, stiffer elastokinematic tuning and higher negative camber.

The C 63 Coupé comes as standard with 10-spoke light-alloy wheels 9.0" x 18" (front) and 10.5" x 18" (rear) as well as with tyres of size 255/40 R 18" (front) and 285/35 R 18" (rear). In the case of the C 63 S Coupé, the tyre sizes are 255/35 R 19" (front) and 285/30 R 19" (rear) on 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels 9.0" x 19" (front) and 10.5" x 19" (rear).

With the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adjustable damping, the customer can choose between maximum sportiness and excellent long-distance comfort in three stages at the press of a button. The difference between the comfortable and sporty suspension settings is also subjectively perceptible - depending on the particular driving situation.

Rear-axle limited-slip differential: optimal traction, including on the race track

For improved traction and vehicle dynamics, the C 63 Coupé is provided with a mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential, while the C 63 S Coupé comes with an electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential. Both differentials reduce the slip on the inside wheel when cornering, without control interventions in the braking system. This allows the driver to accelerate out of corners earlier thanks to the improved traction. The car remains more stable when braking from high speeds, and the limited-slip differential also improves traction when moving off. The model-specific, completely redesigned rear axle was specially adapted to the higher vehicle dynamics of the Coupé.

The greatest benefit of the electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential - installed as standard on the C 63 S - is the even more sensitive and faster control, which further raises the critical limit of driveability. The 3-stage ESP® with "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" settings works in perfect unison with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and is optimally tuned to the outstanding dynamics.

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes

The driver is able to influence the characteristics of the C 63 with four different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes. The C 63 S has an additional "Race" transmission mode. There is therefore scope for maximum individualisation. The driver decides on the desired driving experience, from comfortable-economical to super-sporty, using a controller to the left of the touchpad. The driver can choose between various preconfigured transmission modes and an "Individual" mode that the driver can to a large extent personally configure.

C 63 S with dynamic engine mounts as standard

Unique in its segment, the C 63 S Coupé – like the Saloon and the Estate - is equipped with dynamic engine mounts. These help to further resolve the conflicting aims of comfort and dynamic performance. These dynamic mounts are instantly and variably able to adapt their stiffness to the driving conditions and requirements. Soft engine mounts improve comfort, as they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. However, handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up. These measures enhance the vehicle's precision when driven dynamically. For example, the steering response and feedback are even more direct.

Safety of the highest calibre

The Coupé also offers a supreme level of safety. It comes as standard with the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which helps to prevent rear-end collisions. Many other optional assistance systems are available to increase both comfort and safety.

Mercedes-Benz’s sexy new C-Class Coupe and its high-performance C63 variant from Mercedes-AMG will arrive in showrooms early next year. However, other markets will receive the vehicles shortly after their debut this month at the 2015 Frankfurt Auto Show. To treat the early bird buyers, Mercedes-AMG will once again be offering a limited run of specially-equipped Edition 1 cars.

Shown for the first time, the Edition 1 will come in the exclusive color of Magno Selenite Gray together with a contrasting yellow stripe package. The particular combination is borrowed from Mercedes-AMG race cars like the 2016 GT3 and the 2016 C63 DTM, the latter of which also makes its debut this month at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

But getting back to the Edition 1, the car also features a yellow accent on its wheels which are otherwise matte black. They are forged pieces measuring 19 inches up front and 20 inches in the rear. The Edition 1 also benefits from uprated seats and an aerodynamics package, the latter coming with unique front and rear spoilers, new side skirts and a new rear diffuser. There’s also a number of gloss black elements around the body.

Inside, the sports seats are trimmed in Nappa leather and once again include yellow accents. Yellow contrast stitching is also found in the door center panels, arm rests, the steering wheel rim as well as the beltline. Further yellow accents adorn the instrument cluster, the AMG-specific analogue IWC-style clock, and the floor mats. The steering wheel gets a Dinamica microfiber trim and there is also some matte carbon on the dash.

No changes are made to the car’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8, meaning output lies at 469 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque in the standard version and 503 hp and 516 lb-ft in the S model.

As for the new C63 DTM, the car comes with a 4.0-liter V-8 restricted to 500 horsepower and drive is sent to the rear wheels only, via a six-speed sequential gearbox. The new car carries many of the successful 2015 car’s internals, with design adaptations for the 2016 car including the new body, dynamic-looking headlights and the twin blade grille typical of the AMG cars. The wheels measure 18 inches across and the weight of the race car is a minimum 2,469 pounds.

The first tests with the new vehicle will take place during the winter as part of preparations for the 2016 season. The new season will be the last for V-8s in DTM as the series is set to downsize to turbocharged four-cylinders as part of the harmonization of rules with Japan’s Super GT.

Stay tuned for live photos of both cars following their debut at the Frankfurt auto Show on September 15.

Which Mercedes C-Class coupe are we here to review?

It’s the other Mercedes-AMG C-Class Coupe, besides the C63: the C43 4Matic. But instead of comparing it to the glorious, hilarious C63 S (£22k pricier, 141bhp brawnier, 300 per cent butcher), let’s take the C43 on its own merit.

This is a £46,875 rival to the new Audi S5 and recently updated BMW 440i. This is no ‘poor man’s AMG.’ It’s a £45k two-door capable of pegging a Jaguar F-Type S off the line.

‘4Matic’ means four-wheel drive, right?

Correct, and like the S5, all-wheel drive is compulsory. No rear-drive on the menu. Your 362bhp and 383lb ft is shared 31:69 between the front and rear axles respectively via a nine-speed paddleshift ‘box. This is a powertrain versed in the art of getting all the poke onto the road, however slippery it may be, no questions asked thank-you-very-much.

So it’s more of an all-weather hero than a C63?

We’re not going to benchmark the big V8, remember? But no, this is not a lairy, hairy uber-hammer. You surge from 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds, keeping a beady eye on the rev counter and remembering to upchange at 6000rpm.

The redline’s curiously painted onto the tacho at 6500rpm, but hang onto the gear that long and you’ll crash head-on into an unforgiving rev-limiter. And look like a right prat, because everyone has heard you coming.

Loud, is it?

Pardon? Oh yes, it’s sensationally loud. At urban speeds, I reckon this is louder than a C63. (Dammit). But it’s a very particular kind of noise: exhaust blare. In the angriest of the five driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, since you ask), the engine clears its throat, but dab the exhaust button which lies innocently next to the Comand clickwheel and the C43 goes into full on glam rock over-sing-every-note mode.

It reminded me of a more tuneful BMW M4. Some of m’colleagues thought Jaguar D-Type, or F-Type. The rest of them had tinnitus.

It whumps on every upchanges, ka-bangs on a downchange and crackles on the overrun. It’s overdone and synthetic in the most extreme modern way, but hey, people are forking out £50k for a car that looks, (fake silver tailpipes aside) identical to a fleet-spec C220d, and being able to tell the world that with a couple of clicks of the left paddle is all the encouragement some folks will need.

However, because it’s all exhaust noise, everything happens in your wake. I honestly reckon you could convince a car-illiterate mate that your C43 is rear-engined.

What sort of effect does all this noise-making have on fuel economy?

Ah, was hoping you wouldn’t ask. Mid 20s appears to be the realistic average, against a 35.3mpg claim. No worse than an S5, basically, but not a monumental saving in running costs next to the C63 V8 we weren’t going to mention.

Any good to drive?

The ride’s a really pleasant compromise for the UK. There are three modes, and it’s pretty wallowy in Comfort, still a tad heaving in Sport but completely tolerable – and more controlled – in Sport Plus. The ride is easily the biggest improvement the coupe C43’s made versus the C43 Estate, which veered between floating and fidgeting in its various settings. The two-door nails it. Result. Incidentally, the picture of the ‘Individual’ mode above is what I reckon’s the C43’s Goldilocks mode – loud engine, middling ride, and relaxed everywhere else.

Less handy is the steering, which still feels too fast for the car’s own good. Though the AMG C43 does have revised steering components compared to a boggo C coupe, the fact that AMG bins the lot for its own bits in order to give the C63 lovely, feelsome direction changes tells you all you need to know. Less agitated, numb steering would do the C43 the power of good, especially in its pursuit of the ultra-balanced BMW 440i.

What else?

Despite sending almost 70 per cent of poke to the rear wheels, the C43’s overall attitude is to push on at the front (which is perfectly sensible and appropriate, actually). A proper bootful in second gear will remind you where the majority of the V6’s grunt ends up, and can be fairly sharp, the C43, if you’re inclined to grab it by the scruff. It’s just the steering that undoes the car’s ultimate cohesion.

Though you can catch the C43’s gearbox napping if you say, roll up to a roundabout then suddenly ask for some throttle because a gap has appeared, it’s mostly a very polite operator. Some gratuitous Sport mode thuds in the small of your back betray that Mercedes, at some stage during development, left the marketing sorts unattended near a computer, but I guess certain individuals like a bit of the old ‘sense of occasion’ shtick when the rest of the car is oh-so composed.

Good at being polite, I take it?

Seriously, it cruises like a luxury limousine, so absent is the wind noise. The cabin looks gorgeous, feels largely opulent and expensive, the optional Burmester hi-fi system is awesome (quite right, given the exhaust racket it’s got to compete with) and the driving position is perfect. I think Americans will really like this car. It monsters distance just as well as an S-Class coupe. So it’s a £45k bargain…

Where does this sit in the pantheon of small, fast AWD coupes then?

It’s right up there. Like all C-Class coupes, it’s not as sorted a drivers’ car as the equivalent BMW, but because the overall package looks and feels so much richer, the Benz is the more desirable product, and it’s easily more nimble and rewarding than the heavy-set Audi S5.

A proper AMG hero? No, but that’s what the 63 nutter is for. The 43? It’s simply a properly rounded, fast Mercedes-Benz. A coupe this elegant deserves powertrains this enjoyable

Now in its fifth year of production, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the most successful model series from Mercedes-Benz and boasts a wealth of enhancements. The design of the exterior and interior benefits from a stylish makeover. The electronic architecture is completely new. Options include a fully digital instrument display and multimedia systems featuring customised information and music offerings. The assistance systems likewise benefit from the new electronic architecture and are now on a par with those of the S-Class.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class in its current generation was Mercedes-Benz's top-selling model in its fourth year on sale. The brand sold a combined total of over 415,000 Saloon and Estate models worldwide in 2017.

The new-look C-Class combines emotionality with intelligence. The vehicle's new appearance is defined in particular by its front end and the design of the headlamps and tail lights. On the new version, the AMG Line features the diamond radiator grille as standard. The front bumpers have been redesigned for all lines. They feature either a silver trim strip (standard), a chrome-plated trim strip (in combination with AVANTGARDE exterior) or a three-part chrome trim strip (EXCLUSIVE exterior).

The design of the front and rear lamps is defined by clear-lined contours. High-quality, sculpted details underline the sophisticated look and feel. MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with ULTRA RANGE high beam are available for this model series for the first time.

The sporty interior displays a premium look and feel as well as flowing forms. The centre console is characterised by an elegant flowing trim. This is available in open-pore brown walnut or open-pore anthracite oak. The 3D real wood veneer in the centre console combines a hand-crafted character with a modern feel. New interior colours include magma grey/black, plus saddle brown for the AMG Line interior.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class adopts the control and display concept from the current S-Class and comes with the option of a fully digital instrument display with three individually selectable display styles. The C-Class has touch-sensitive controls in the steering wheel. The operation of DISTRONIC and cruise control with controls directly on the steering wheel is another new feature. The infotainment system can additionally be operated via the touchpad with controller (new: haptic feedback) in the centre console or by means of LINGUATRONIC voice control.

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class features the latest driving assistance systems, offering the driver cooperative support and providing for a higher standard of active safety than its predecessor. The C-Class is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations. The C-Class also uses map and navigation data for assistance functions. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driving Assistance package is able to support the driver in numerous situations on the basis of map information and predictively adjust the speed e.g. when approaching bends, junctions or roundabouts. Other new developments include intuitively understandable Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist as new functions of Active Steering Assist.

The optionally available MULTIBEAM LED headlamps are new to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Each headlamp incorporates 84 individually controllable LEDs. These allow extremely quick and precise, electronically controlled adjustment of the headlamps to suit the current traffic situation.

ENERGIZING comfort control (optional) links various comfort systems in the vehicle. It systematically uses the functions of the climate control system (including fragrancing) and the seats (heater, ventilation, massage) as well as lighting and musical moods, and enables a specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of the customer. This has positive effects on wellbeing and driver performance.

With four body variants, three output levels and two drive types, the C-Class is the most versatile and most successful model series from Mercedes-AMG. Extensive measures now make the entry-level models, the C43 4Matic Saloon (combined fuel consumption: 9.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 209 g/km) and Estate (combined fuel consumption: 9.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 214 g/km1) even more attractive. The AMG radiator grille in a twin-louvre design, the powerfully sculpted front apron and the new rear apron with round twin tailpipe trim elements visibly enhance the new C43 models and give them an even more distinct positioning. The interior benefits from an optional fully digital cockpit with unmistakable AMG displays and the new generation of AMG steering wheels. The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine now delivers 287 kW (390 hp). Together with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and rear-biased AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive, the engine combines agile driving dynamics with comfort on long journeys.

"As the most successful model series for Mercedes-AMG, the C-Class family in all its facets has made a major contribution to our corporate success. One major component in this success story was the implementation of the 43-series models, which have thrilled our customers worldwide since the market launch in 2015. The high demand and positive feedback have encouraged us to sharpen up not only the appearance of the facelift, but also its performance, efficiency and dynamism in true AMG style," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

For this the AMG development engineers have increased the output of the 3.0-litre V6 engine by 17 kW (23 hp) to 287 kW (390 hp). The peak torque of 520 Nm is available from 2500 to 5000 rpm. This package guarantees impressive performance figures: the new C43 4Matic Saloon accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, and the Estate in 4.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.