With the end of the CLK-Class Mercedes has decided to introduce a C-Class Coupe and C-Class Convertible. The next C-Class will still be based on E-Class architecture, and is aimed at the BMW 3-Series and Audi A5/S5 lineups. Although official images of the convertible C-Class have not been revealed yet, our artist has created one possible answer to that question.
It’s easy to imagine a two-door coupe or convertible version of the C-Class Sedan, but it’s safe to expect there will be a few surprises. After all, the 2010 CLK (E-Class Coupe) has a slightly different face than the E-Class Sedan, and the CL-Class (S-Class Coupe) is styled differently than the S-Class sedan.
Our artist gave the two-door C-Class a slightly different headlight design and a large-emblem grille typical of Mercedes coupes and convertibles.
Like the E-class Convertible, the C-Class is expected to utilize a cloth folding top, rather than the heavier and more costly hardtop becoming common in other segments. The use of a cheaper soft top will help Mercedes to price the C-Class Convertible within reach of buyers otherwise considering a BMW 1-Series convertible.
The C-Class Coupe has already been announced to be featuring a pair of DOHC V6 engines, including a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, and a smaller V6 with twin turbochargers with expected output over 300 horsepower. Also coming to the C-Class will be a 4-cylinder engine – offered for the first time since 2005 for this model. There has not been confirmation, however, of whether or not the convertible variant of the C-Class will also have the 4-cylinder engine to be offered on the C-Class sedan.
Mercedes also recently introduced a new 5.5-liter twin turbocharged V8 coming for the 2011 AMG models – including the C-Class platform sharing C63 AMG. Although not likely at launch, there is a possibility that the AMG engine will find its way into the C-Class Convertible – giving Mercedes a weapon to compete with BMW ’s M3.
