Mercedes opens the door on its C Class coupe

Mercedes-Benz will be hoping the C-Class coupe will be more successful than its hatch-like CLC. Photo / Supplied

This is the first official picture of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe, ahead of the two-door's world debut at the Geneva motor show in a couple of weeks.

Although BMW has sold a coupe version of its 3-Series since the 1980s, this is the first time Mercedes-Benz has seriously ventured into the class, following the demise of the hatch-like CLC.

A short front overhang, steeply raked windscreen and swooping roofline create the classic coupe profile.

And while the front end is lifted from the recently facelifted C-Class sedan, the car is all new from the A-pillar back.

Inside is the three-spoke steering wheel seen in the new CLS, plus high-quality materials throughout. The cabin accommodates four in comfort, says Mercedes-Benz, and the rear seats can be folded to create extra room.

The the new, larger central display incorporates 3D sat-nav, and provides internet access when the car is stationary.

There's also a raft of safety kit available.

Topping the engine range is the new petrol V6, in the C350 model. Greenest choice is the C220 CDI, which returns a claimed 4.4 litres/100km (64mpg) and emits a mere 117gr/km of CO2.

All cars get stop-start and the option of the uprated 7G-Tronic Plus automatic gearbox.

Prices will be revealed closer to the C-Class Coupe's arrival in New Zealand later in the year.