Mercedes-Benz previews sporty 2017 C-class coupe (pictures)

Mercedes-Benz previewed the coupe version of its latest C-class model ahead of its unveiling during September's Frankfurt auto show.

Mercedes-Benz notes that the C-class coupe, which will be sold as the C300 in the US, sits half an inch lower than its sedan model-mate, emphasizing its sport-oriented character.

The C-class coupe will be available with an air suspensions, along with much of the tech available on Mercedes-Benz's larger models.

The C300 version sold in the US will only come with one engine type, a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder making 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.

Mercedes-Benz manages to scale the kind of opulent luxury found in its S-class down to the smaller C-class. Driver assistance options  include adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, which can almost drive the car in slow traffic.

The new C-class coupe uses Mercedes-Benz's latest Comand infotainment interface, with a touchpad supporting alphanumeric input and gestures above a more traditional jog dial.

Molded sport seats fit the character of the C-class coupe.

Rear seats are clearly divided, making the car a four-seater.

The pin cushion grille echoes the design of the smaller CLA model. The embedded, rather than standing, front badge is another styling cue for Mercedes-Benz's sport-oriented cars.

The C-class coupe's cab appears to sit further back, allowing a longer nose similar to that of gran turismo cars.

The rear trunk lip echoes some of the design of Infiniti's previous G37 models.