Remember that ad for the latest E-Class sedan: Perfectly groomed guy in smart suit meets future father-in-law. The dad's fancy mansion might seem intimidating but at least the young guy's got a flashy new E-Class to show that he's perfect marriage material.
Unfortunately this particular father is impossible to please, muttering “hippie, I knew it!” as soon as he sees the BlueEfficiency badge on the Merc.
Not that anyone else could imagine a hippie driving an E-Class sedan, but it's now less of a stretch as Mercedes-Benz has launched two far 'hipper' versions of its E 250 CGI BlueEfficiency in South Africa.
This move essentially brings a more affordable and efficient option to the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet ranges. As with the E 250 CGI sedan, this pair is powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder, direct-injection petrol engine, which sends its power to the back wheels via a five-speed automatic gearbox.
You may wonder, then, where the '250' badge comes from, but apparently it has something to do with it having as much power as a traditional 2.5-litre.
We won't dispute that, the engine putting out 150kW and 310Nm. Best of all, though, is the claimed combined (NEDC) fuel consumption figure of just 7.2 litres per 100km, equating to a carbon footprint of 185g/km.
Besides the use of a small engine and direct injection, further measures taken by engineers to reduce consumption include on-demand activation of the steering, fuel pumps and alternator as well as carefully engineered aerodynamics.
Beneath the skin, these models are otherwise very much like their larger-engined siblings, with standard Agility Control suspension that's set up for comfort, while a sportier variant of this suspension is available on the options list.
Other available gadgets include Blind Spot Assist, a Bi-Xenon lighting system with variable light distribution and an automatic emergency braking system.
Visually, the E250 CGI Coupé and Cabriolet have been decked out with an AMG Sports package that comprises a body kit, 18-inch 'six-twin-spoke' alloys and AMG perforated front brake discs.
The AMG sports package also extends into the cabin, where you'll find multi-contour front seats, brushed stainless steel sports pedals and an AMG steering wheel.
Pricing is expectedly steep, at R607 130 for the Coupé (versus R720 730 for the E350) and R686 600 for the Cabriolet, and that's before you've begun indulging in the long list of optional gadgets.
Those wanting a more affordable option, however, can look forward to the C-Class Coupé that's due here by October this year.