Face-Auto: First Look 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

First Look 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

First Look 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

After rolling out sedan, wagon, and AMG variants of its new 2012 C-Class, Mercedes-Benz has released the first official details surrounding its latest C-Class spinoff -- the 2012 C-Class Coupe -- before its public debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
The new model isn't Benz's first attempt at crafting a C-Coupe, but it is a remarkably different approach. Unlike the C-Class Sportcoupe hatchback, sold here from 2002 to 2007, the new two-door C-Class isn't a basic, entry-level luxury compact. Instead of competing against Audi A3s, this C is gunning directly at BMW's 3-Series Coupe.
Exterior styling is certainly handsome, if not predictable. The new C-Class Coupe is almost the splitting image of the C-Class sedan, and even uses the same front fascia and fenders as its four-door siblings. Coupe models do receive a sweeping panoramic glass roof that's nearly an inch and a half lower than the sedan, and incorporates a very BMW-like kick in the quarter window design.
Despite shedding a pair of doors, the coupe still rides on the same 108.7-inch wheelbase as the sedan, and is only a half-inch shorter and 100 pounds lighter. Mercedes continues to use a strut-type suspension in front and a five-link independent setup for the rear axle. Sport-tuned dampers are standard, although electrically adjustable units are available as a special-order option.