Faults:

It is common for injectors to leak diesel. If not fixed quickly, the fuel carbonizes and forms a paste that makes it impossible to remove from the injector.

The oil cooler is prone to leaks, requiring periodic inspection to prevent the oil from mixing with the coolant.

Faults in the starter motor or ignition module that prevent the key from being recognized (after 100,000 km).

Erratic malfunctions of lights, turn signals, or dashboard sensors.

General Comments:

With its muscular silhouette, the Sportcoupé is eye-catching from every angle. Viewed from the front, the slanted grille and wedge-shaped body reveal refined aerodynamic engineering.

The rear view offers something out of the ordinary: the tailgate features a transparent acrylic section designed to enhance visibility. And while the results aren't entirely positive, stylistically it is an aggressive-looking car that cuts a striking figure and commands attention.

There is nothing better than a 6-speed manual transmission to make the most of the capabilities and performance of an outstanding turbodiesel engine. It is worth noting that this engine not only delivers generous torque—32.1 kg-m—but also produces it within the 1,800 to 2,600 rpm range. It offers excellent acceleration and flexibility. It can reach a top speed of 220 km/h (bearing in mind that it runs on diesel) and achieve an average range of 700 kilometers.

Aside from the lack of power adjustments for the driver's seat, there are no downsides to this Mercedes' comfort. The driving position is ideal for long journeys, ensuring maximum comfort; the seat cushion provides excellent thigh support, and the backrest performs equally well. It is complemented by a three-spoke sports steering wheel that offers a pleasant grip and is adjustable for both height and reach.

As with any coupé, accessing the rear seats isn't entirely convenient—the front seats must be folded down to get in, but the rear seating area is quite comfortable for two people, despite the sloping roofline.

Comfort equipment is comprehensive, yet given its extremely high price, the absence of electric seat adjustment, a CD player, and leather upholstery is striking.

The steering offers ideal assistance, light in traffic yet firm at high speeds. Its turning circle is excellent (10.7 meters), allowing for confident maneuvering in tight spaces. As for the suspension, its performance is flawless.

It strikes a unique balance, offering a comfortable ride in the city while also delivering a fun, sporty experience when desired. This equilibrium allows the car to tackle high-speed corners with absolute confidence, complementing the rear-wheel-drive setup and the chassis's well-executed weight distribution.

There are no shortcomings when it comes to safety and braking. This is demonstrated by its electronic traction and stability control system (ESP), ABS, BAS (emergency brake assist), and six airbags (two front, two side, and two for head protection). Braking performance is more than adequate for its weight of one and a half tons. Both low and high beams offer excellent illumination, and the windshield wipers perform their job very well.

Faults:

Rust.

Rust appeared along both front wheelarch lips at 5 years of age. The progression of this was so quick that both front wings needed changing this year. Rust also appeared along both rear wheel arches and randomly in open areas of bodywork NOT associated with damage or chips.

The car has just cost me £800 for paintwork repairs. I paid £25500 for it at 3 months old.

I spoke to the Mercedes dealer when the rust first appeared, and they would not support a warranty claim, as the vehicle had been serviced by an independent garage, despite this being on time and always to Mercedes specification.