Underpinning the car is the modular rear-wheel-drive platform known as the MRA, which debuted in the latest C-Class. It should ensure the new E-Class Coupe is lighter and more dynamic than the model it replaces. Adoption of the MRA platform also means that the E-Class Coupe will be available with 4Matic all-wheel drive, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Other powertrains will include four- and six-cylinder units, in both gasoline and diesel flavors. Of course, there will also be a high-performance E63 Coupe from Mercedes-AMG. It will adopt the tuner’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 and have an output close to 600 horsepower.
Another benefit of the MRA platform are all the tech features it affords. The list includes advanced autonomous driving capabilities, which will include automatic lane changing, as well as a lavish interior (E-Class sedan interior pictured) complete with two huge display screens replacing the usual dashboard displays. The dash should look almost the same as the one found in the S-Class range.
This prototype already appears to be at a late stage so we wouldn’t be surprised to see the final version within the next 12-18 months. Sales should commence by the fall of 2017, making it a 2018 model.
Note, a new E-Class Cabriolet is also in the works. We’ll also be seeing a new generation of the swoopy CLS, which once again will be closely related to the E-Class. Stay tuned for prototypes of both cars in the coming year.
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HI-RES GALLERY: 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
