Every C-class will be hybrid

The next-generation Mercedes C-class will have hybrid technology on virtually every model in an attempt to drive average fuel consumption down to supermini levels, say company sources.

Expected to be launched in late 2013, the new C-class family is being developed to demanding CO2 targets. According to one insider, the most frugal diesel-engined model in the range is targeting average emissions of just 100g/km, while the most economic petrol version will come in between 110g/km and 120g/km.

Early prototypes are now being tested, but Autocar understands there is still some debate as to whether three-cylinder engines will be fitted. Another possibility is that the new cars will use four-pot engines equipped with cylinder deactivation technology, allowing the motors to occasionally run on just two cylinders.

As well as these downsized engines and electrical assistance from hybrid transmissions, the new C-class cars will benefit from greatly reduced friction in the engine, gearbox and wheel bearings. The cars’ overall weight, despite the addition of a small battery pack, electric motor and power electronics, will be reduced by around 10 per cent.

Mercedes C-class coupe Auto Car Saloon and Estate Models

Official brochure images of the new Mercedes C-class coupe have leaked out ahead of its motor show debut at Geneva in March.

The new C-class coupe has been conceived to replace the CLK, discontinued earlier this year after 12 years and two model generations. It also spells the end for the CLC, a small sports hatch that was only recently updated.

See the leaked pics of the Mercedes C-class coupe

The design of coupe from the A-pillars forward mirrors that of the recently revised C-class saloon and estate models that will be shown to media at the Detroit motor show from Monday. But from the A-pillars back there is a comprehensive redesign, with a long flowing roofline and a shoulder line flowing upwards to give the car a sleek and slippery profile.

The interior shot shows a cabin sporting much of the changes to the rest of the C-class range, including a new, angular instrument binnacle mirroring used in the larger E-class, a newly designed steering wheel, updated switchgear and higher-quality trim materials.

Read more on the facelifted C-class range

Engines are expected to be shared with the standard range. That means it will retain the pre-facelift's four-cylinder petrol and diesel units and also get a new 3.5-litre V6 direct injection petrol engine.

The C-class coupe will also spawn a BMW M3-rivalling C63 AMG model, as well as potentially a hardcore Black Series variant.