GENEVA - The new MY-2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe will debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1 and make its way to U.S. showrooms in September. The 302-hp C350 and 201-hp C250 include the progressive technology featured on the upcoming MY-2012 C-Class sedan, but packaged in a coupe design that combines driving fun with exemplary efficiency, according to a release from the automaker.

The C-Class Coupe is a four-seater. From the side, the new coupe has compact proportions, low silhouette (1.5 inches flatter than the sedan) with powerful shoulders, and a narrow C-pillar in a classic three-box design. At the front, the new coupe shares some of the same styling as the latest C-Class sedan and yet has some of its own characteristics.

The C-Class Coupe features the new telematics generation. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, phone book transfer, wireless Bluetooth audio streaming, and a USB interface now located in the center armrest.

Integrated services include SIRIUS weather information and a special destination search via Google, as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google Maps and sent to the car. The optional COMAND navigation system also has a new 3D display with city views.

Driving routes covered can now be recorded and recalled later, specific personal destinations can be saved or imported via an SD card, and four alternative routes can be displayed on the navigation map including an especially economical route.

There is a choice of two new direct-injection gasoline engines to power the C-Class Coupe, and both models are equipped with a more fuel efficient 7-speed automatic transmission.

The V6 gasoline engine in the C350 features the efficient BlueDIRECT injection and delivers 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Average combined fuel consumption is 22 mpg (estimated). The four-cylinder gasoline engine in the C250 also features direct injection and is turbocharged, offering high performance and exemplary economy.

C-Class Coupe Engines:

* Estimated figures.

Agility Control suspension is complemented by a rack-and-pinion steering system. The front axle has a three-link construction with McPherson spring struts.

With multi-link independent rear suspension, the wheel is attached to five flexibly mounted, independently acting control arms that restrict five of the available spatial movements.

The C-Class Coupe has extensive safety features, including nine standard airbags, belt tensioners, and belt-force limiters for all seats. Driving assistance systems include standard Attention Assist drowsiness detection and optional Lane Keeping Assist.

Assistance systems at a glance:

• Anti-lock braking system ABS

• Adaptive Highbeam Assist

• Lane Keeping Assist

• Blind Spot Assist

• ATTENTION ASSIST

• Electronic Stability Program ESP

• Bi-Xenon headlights with active curve illumination

• PARKTRONIC with Parking Guidance