Mercedes CLK / E-Class Coupe Convertible Spied for First Time

Like the E-Class it always wanted to be, the CLK will finally get bumped up in status for 2009 as the new generation adopts its new E-Class Coupe name. We've seen plenty of spy photos of the CLK/ E-Coupe (C207) doing the prototype thing, but these newest photos reveal the (A207) convertible version. Contrary to popular belief it has a retractable hardtop unlike the current C209's soft top.

Clearly visible is the joint between the A-pillar windshield frame and the front edge of the roof. The wider cladding on the c-pillar and the longer boot lid help give away the secret of this prototype. Yet bigger and a bit more elegant than the outgoing model, the new E-Coupe variants will be based on the C-Class platform.

Mercedes wants to return the E-Class to the iconic status of the W124 E-Class of 1995 with a level of refinement reflected in the recent E-Class shootingbrake preview ConceptFASCINATION. Looking at the interior of the concept we expect it will be almost identical in the E-Coupe.

Word on the street, is that the E-Class coupe will have its unveiling in Geneva in March 2009 with European market launch soon after in May. The convertible will follow a little later in the autumn.