Mercedes E-Class coupe and cabrio get clever four-cylinder engine

Attempting to bring the best of both worlds by combining the performance of a petrol engine with the low fuel consumption of a diesel, Mercedes is rolling out its new M 264 engine for its two-door E-Class models.

The four-cylinder unit has twin-scroll turbochargers and aims to deliver a 'sporty specific output' by producing 295bhp from 5,800rpm and a maximum torque of 295lb ft available from 3,000rpm.

What truly sets it apart from a conventional four-cylinder 2-litre lump is the implementation of a 48V electrical system, with a beefed up starter-alternator and electric water pump. The boost function available at up to an engine speed range of 2,500rpm increases output by as much as 13bhp thanks to the EQ Boost-branded starter-alternator. Not only that, but Mercedes promises the engine starts up and accelerates 'almost imperceptibly', so it should prove to be silky smooth.

The new M 264 unit can be switched off more often whenever its power is not needed (decelerating or coasting) to save precious fuel. In the coupe, the clever four-cylinder unit consumes 42.2mpg in the combined cycle and emits 149g/km of CO2. The slightly heavier cabriolet is a bit thirstier, 41.5mpg and 154g/km.

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Both two-door E350 models come with a nine-speed automatic transmission and share an electronic speed limiter that kicks in at 155mph. Needless to say, the coupe is quicker in the sprint to 62mph at 5.9sec whereas the soft-top requires an additional 0.2 seconds.

In other news, the E-Class can be had with two fresh rubellite red and diamond silver paints as well as with light aluminium trim elements. Moreover, the cabrio can be optionally ordered with a Night Package bringing a multitude of black styling elements. Taken from the flagship S-Class is the Energizing comfort control that brings six selectable 10-minute programs modifying things like the climate control, ambient lighting as well as the massage and fragrancing functions to relax those inside the cabin.