First Drive: 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250/C350 Coupe

Money matters
Of course, the C350 costs more money. Just how much more, we can't exactly say at this point, as Mercedes isn't releasing pricing until closer to the coupes' showroom debut, in September. Compared to their sedan counterparts, though, we can say that the coupe versions are likely to be roughly $3000 more. That extra money buys fewer doors, but more style, as well as a panoramic glass sunroof, memory for the power driver's seat, and shift paddles (all of which are extra on the four-door). We're estimating a $37,000 starting price for the C-class coupe , which makes it a fairly inexpensive way to get two-door style in a Mercedes Benz-but we'd budget a bit more to get the C350. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 /C350 Coupe Base price (C250/C350): $37,000/$43,000 (estimated)
On sale: September 2011 Fuel economy:
C250: 24 mpg combined (est.)
C350: 22 mpg combined (est.) Engines:
1.8L I-4 turbo
Horsepower: 201 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque: 229 lb-ft @ 2200-4300 rpm 3.5L V-6
Horsepower: 302 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm Drive:
Rear -wheel
Transmission:
7-speed automatic
Suspension, f/r:
Damper struts, coil springs/Multilink, coil springs
Steering:
Rack-and-pinion, speed-sensitive hydraulic power assist
Brakes:
Vented discs, ABS, Brake Assist Curb weight: 3419/3562 lb (C250/C350) Wheels/tires:
17 x 7.5 in
225/40R17 front, 245/40R17 rear Competitors: Audi A5, BMW 3-series, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G37