Merccord Coupe

Mercedes has just released shots of it’s new C-Class coupe, which kinda sorta replaces the CLK. Kinda because the CLK sorta became the E-Class coupe. Which is based off the C-Class, but looks like an E-Class. Although this seems a bit repetitive, the C-Class coupe is smaller and doesn’t have the pillarless window effect of the E-Class Coupe or it’s dramatic bodyside treatment and (excessive) front end details.

In the end it’s a sleek and clean design that looks quite nice. Unfortunately, it also looks a lot like an Accord Coupe (in particular the greenhouse and bodyside crease), which probably isn’t the demographic they’re looking for.

Flavia Flav

We’ve been hearing for a while now of Fiat’s plans to have a Chrysler 300 based Lancia. I thought that sounded a little sketchy originally, and today Fiat's made it's plans crystal clear as it released some shots of the upcoming car, which will take the Thema nameplate.

Where before I assumed that the chassis, engine and other bits would be used in a Lancia, it now seems that basically the only thing changed is the emblem in the grille, on the trunk and in the rims.
More alarming is that the 300 based Thema is not the only badge-engineered Lancia in the works… The Flavia nameplate has been resurrected in the form of the Chrysler Sebring 200, and even the Grand Voyager can now be had with a Lancia badge on the hood The latter has been named – imaginatively – the Grand Voyager. Which I’m guessing is Italian for “blasphemy”.

One can only guess as what the Italian public will think of these new products, given that 40-50 years ago the company was known for sporty, distinctive cars with a rich rally heritage. Although that being said the brand had been pretty much diluted to the point of being Fiat’s Mercury anyhow. Still – I was hoping for at least a facelift.