The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe marked a significant moment in automotive design and engineering, debuting just three months after the E-Class Saloon at the Geneva Motor Show. This sporty and luxurious two-door model not only boasted a striking aesthetic but also integrated a suite of cutting-edge technical innovations across its engine, suspension, safety systems, and infotainment. Representing a leap forward from its predecessor, the CLK, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe was built on the E-Class platform, offering enhanced space and performance characteristics that set a new benchmark in its class.
Striking Design and Exterior Elegance
The exterior of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe immediately communicates classic Mercedes-Benz coupé styling, featuring fully retractable side windows and the iconic sports radiator grille with a prominent central star. The design language subtly echoes the E-Class Saloon in the front and rear wing contours, establishing a clear family lineage while asserting its own sporty identity. This blend of familiar and unique elements ensured the 2009 E-Class Coupe was instantly recognizable yet distinctly desirable.
Luxurious and Spacious Interior
Stepping inside the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, occupants are greeted by an interior that mirrors the Saloon’s design ethos but with a sportier interpretation. A key improvement over previous models was the significantly increased interior space. Moving to the E-Class platform allowed the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe to offer greater length and width, directly translating to enhanced passenger comfort. Newly designed, electrically adjustable seats were standard, complemented by an easy-entry system for convenient access to the individual rear seats. Practicality was further enhanced by individually or jointly foldable rear seat backrests, expanding the luggage compartment’s capacity as needed.
Engine Options and Performance Dynamics
At its market launch in May 2009, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe presented a diverse range of five engine choices: two diesel and three petrol variants, catering to a spectrum of performance preferences.
Diesel Engines: Efficiency and Torque
The diesel lineup was headlined by the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, featuring a 2143 cc four-cylinder engine from the new OM 651 generation. This engine delivered 150 kW/204 hp and an impressive 500 Nm of torque, achieving a combined fuel consumption of just 5.6 l/100 km (NEDC). For those seeking more power, the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé offered a 3.0-litre V6 from the OM 642 series, producing 170 kW/231 hp and maintaining a respectable fuel consumption of 6.8 l/100 km (NEDC).
Petrol Engines: Power and Refinement
The petrol engine range began with the E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, powered by a newly developed 1.8-litre turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder M 271 engine. Producing 150 kW/204 hp and paired with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission, it offered sports car-like performance with fuel consumption just over 7 l/100 km. The mid-range E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé featured a 3.5-litre V6 M 272 engine with spray-guided direct petrol injection, delivering 215 kW/292 hp while maintaining a combined fuel consumption of 8.5 l/100 km (NEDC). For ultimate power, the E 500 Coupé retained the V8 engine, a 5.5-litre unit producing 285 kW/388 hp, ensuring exceptional performance and smooth operation.
Chassis, Suspension, and Agile Handling
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe was engineered to provide a safe yet dynamically engaging driving experience. Standard AGILITY CONTROL suspension with an automatic shock absorber system adapted to varying driving conditions, offering a balance between sporty agility and comfortable cruising. An optional AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension provided a firmer, sport-focused damping characteristic, complemented by speed-sensitive sports steering with a more direct ratio. Further enhancing driving dynamics, the optional Driving Dynamics Package included an electronically controlled, wheel-selective damping system with selectable “Comfort” and “Sport” modes.
Advanced Safety and Assistance Systems
True to Mercedes-Benz tradition, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe incorporated a comprehensive suite of safety and assistance systems. Standard features included ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection. Optional Intelligent Light System with Adaptive Highbeam Assist and bi-xenon headlamps optimized road illumination in all conditions. The DISTRONIC PLUS assistance system, adopted from the S-Class, offered adaptive cruise control, Brake Assist Plus, and PRE-SAFE® Brake, autonomously intervening to prevent or mitigate collisions.
Passive safety was also paramount, with seven airbags, seat belt tensioners, belt force limiters, and crash-active head restraints as standard. The body structure utilized high-strength steel alloys and advanced deformation designs to maximize occupant protection. Pedestrian safety was addressed with an active bonnet that lifted in a collision to increase deformation space.
Infotainment and Technology Integration
The infotainment system of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe was state-of-the-art, centered around the S-Class-proven operating concept with a multifunction steering wheel, color display, and Direct Select buttons. The controller on the transmission tunnel managed audio, telephone, and navigation functions. Standard Audio 20 system included a radio, CD/DVD player, eight speakers, and Bluetooth. Optional COMAND APS multimedia system added hard-disc navigation, DVD changer, music register, and voice control. A 500-watt sound system, media interface, and digital radio tuner further enhanced the auditory experience.
Customization and AMG Sports Package
Mercedes-Benz offered extensive customization options for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, including various engines, chassis variants, equipment lines, colors, and wheel/tire combinations. The AMG Sports Package provided a distinctly sporty aesthetic with AMG-styled aprons, side sill panels, and 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. It also included AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension and an AMG sports steering wheel, enhancing both visual appeal and driving dynamics.
Prime Edition and Initial Pricing
To commemorate the launch, Mercedes-Benz introduced a limited “Prime Edition” of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, featuring exclusive appointments like palladium silver metallic paint, a panoramic glass roof, and 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. The interior boasted a two-tone designo nappa leather finish. Initial gross list prices for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe started at 44,684.50 euros for the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY models, reaching 66,045.00 euros for the top-of-the-line E 500.
Model Year Updates and Continued Evolution
The engine range expanded in March 2010 with the introduction of the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY models, further broadening accessibility. In 2011, the E 300 BlueEFFICIENCY marked the transition to the new M 276 V6 petrol engine, along with the advanced 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, progressively rolled out across the range. Later updates included performance and efficiency enhancements for the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY models, demonstrating Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Despite updates and new engine introductions, the base price remained relatively stable until the significant facelift in March 2013. The E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé (later E 250 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé) emerged as the most popular variant, with nearly 29,800 units produced by April 2013, contributing to a total production output of over 141,300 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe models up to that point.
Conclusion: A Benchmark of Sporty Luxury and Innovation
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and design philosophy. Combining sporty elegance with advanced technology and a range of efficient yet powerful engines, it solidified its position as a leader in the luxury coupe segment. Its blend of performance, comfort, safety, and style continues to resonate with automotive enthusiasts and remains a sought-after model in the used car market, reflecting its enduring appeal and the lasting impact of its innovations.
