Mercedes E350 CDI Coupe SE

What is it?

The Mercedes E-Class Coupe is the slightly longer, wider and lower successor to the CLK. It takes many of its styling and interior cues from the latest generation E-Class, notably the angular dashboard, switchboard and trim equipment levels.

The E350 CDI BlueEfficiency is the only diesel available at the E-Class Coupe’s launch. The 3.0-litre unit delivers 228bhp and 398lb ft of torque, while averaging 41.5mpg and emitting 179g/km of CO2.

We’re testing it here with the seven-speed automatic gearbox and in the base SE trim, which includes features such as parking monitors, leather upholstery, heated seats, 17-inch alloys and climate control as standard.

What’s it like?

The E350 CDI BlueEfficiency delivers enjoyable performance, covering the 0-62mph dash in 6.7s and providing plenty of punch in every gear from low down the rev range.

It achieves this without ever becoming overly noisy or gruff, and the car’s sleek aerodynamic shape helps alleviate wind and road noise, too, making the E-Class Coupe’s cabin a supremely refined place to be.

That luxury feel is bolstered by padded front seats that are unique to the coupe and give plenty of support. Progress is only likely to get uncomfortable if you are sat in the back and tall – while leg room is excellent, the sloping roof means anyone over six feet tall will be left crouching down.

And comfort is where the E-Class Coupe scores most highly. Quiet and comfortable, it is a superb motorway cruiser that is perfectly complimented by the auto gearbox.

The only potential downside is a slightly hard ride that could struggle with UK roads. Out on a twisty road the car is dynamically sound if far from being a thrill-a-minute to drive, and it never becomes especially involving. The same can be said for the steering, that is a little too light at times.

Should I buy one?

Maybe. If you are desperate to get an E-Class Coupe, then you won’t be disappointed by the Mercedes E350 CDI BlueEfficiency Coupe SE. However, with the E250 CDI going on sale later this year, we’d recommend waiting if you can.

While the lower powered engine lacks the punch of this unit, it delivers enough performance to satisfy almost everyone’s everyday driving needs for a lower asking price and considerably lower running costs.