2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

Mercedes-Benz has already rolled out sedan, wagon, and high-performance, and variants of the new 2012 C-Class, but the automaker just unwrapped the 2012 C-Class Coupe ahead of its official debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

The new model isn't Benz's first attempt at crafting a C-Coupe, but it is a remarkably different approach. Unlike the C-Class Sportcoupe hatchback, sold here from 2002 to 2007, the new two-door C-Class isn't a basic, entry-level luxury compact. Instead of competing against Audi A3s, this C is gunning directly at BMW's 3-Series Coupe.

Exterior styling is certainly handsome, if not predictable. The new C-Class Coupe is almost the splitting image of the C-Class sedan, and even uses the same front fascia and fenders as its four-door siblings. Coupe models do receive a sweeping panoramic glass roof that's nearly an inch and a half lower than the sedan, and incorporates a very BMW-like kick in the quarter window design.

Despite shedding a pair of doors, the coupe still rides on the same 108.7-inch wheelbase as the sedan, and is only a half-inch shorter and 100 pounds lighter. Mercedes continues to use a strut-type suspension in front and a five-link independent setup for the rear axle. Sport-tuned dampers are standard, although electrically adjustable units are available as a special-order option.