The 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé is more than just an elegant car—it offers a seamless combination of advanced technology, refined comfort, and sporty performance. In a recent test drive through Kampala, automotive journalist Roland D Nasasira discovered just how far car innovation has come, particularly in driver-vehicle communication.
The journey began at Quality Shopping Mall in Naalya on a quiet Saturday morning. Before the engine even roared to life, the dashboard alerted him that the car was running on reserve fuel and instantly suggested nearby petrol stations—a clear display of the car’s smart features. Two 4.5-inch digital screens—one behind the steering wheel and the other in the center console—displayed these prompts, providing vital information to both driver and front passenger.
Seat controls in the E-Class Coupé are integrated into the door panel next to the window buttons, allowing smooth adjustments for tilt and position. With memory functions for three different users and air-cooled seats, comfort is clearly a priority. In hot weather, the remote key can be used to open the sunroof and windows, ventilating the cabin before entry—ideal for tropical climates.
When the car starts, the engine is nearly silent, yet it’s capable of reaching up to 260 km/h. Accelerating quickly on Kampala’s Northern Bypass, the Coupé went from 0 to 50 km/h in just three seconds and hit 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. This level of speed necessitates full driver focus. Thankfully, Bluetooth integration allows calls and music to be controlled without taking hands off the wheel, while a heads-up display projects key information onto the windshield to keep the driver’s gaze on the road.
The center console between the driver and front passenger houses numerous controls, including options for ambient lighting that can be personalized. A dial allows the driver to switch between various driving modes—eco, comfort, sport, sport plus, and individual. Each mode adjusts the vehicle’s settings, with sport mode lowering the suspension for better road grip and delivering a more aggressive gear response, though at the cost of increased fuel consumption.
Air conditioning is equally sophisticated, with four vents on the dashboard and two more for rear passengers. Impressively, all seats, including those in the back, are air-cooled—an uncommon feature in many cars.
Beneath the hood, the car runs on a powerful 3.0-litre engine producing 330 horsepower, upgradeable to nearly 400. It shares its powertrain and leather seat design with the performance-focused Mercedes-AMG 43. Another thoughtful detail is the seatbelt presenter feature—a button brings the buckle closer for easy reach.
Parking and maneuvering are enhanced by a 360-degree camera feed displayed on the smart screen, giving a complete view of the surroundings. The E-Class Coupé’s adaptive suspension system allows the ground clearance to be raised or lowered depending on road conditions, making it versatile for both urban roads and rougher terrain. The car’s design lacks a B-pillar, which gives the cabin a more open and airy feel when the doors are opened. The dashboard, covered in leather and black wood trim, combines aesthetics with practicality, although rear-seat access requires tilting the front seats forward—a minor trade-off for a sleek two-door design.
According to Germany-based mechanic Richard Kakembo, maintaining such a vehicle requires diligence—timely servicing, using proper oil grades, and working with certified garages are key to its longevity. Car dealer Mujib Tusuubira notes that the E-Class Coupé sells for around Shs160 million including taxes, but prices can go as high as Shs250 million depending on specifications such as AMG tuning or four-wheel drive capability.
Ultimately, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé delivers a refined, luxurious experience backed by intelligent systems and impressive performance. It’s a strong option for anyone looking to move into the premium automotive segment without compromising on usability or driving enjoyment.