Coupé cars have long held a special place in the automotive world, reknown for their sleek and stylish designs that exude a sense of sophistication and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into what defines a coupé, examine the differences between coupés and other body types, explore the history and highlight some notable coupé models available on our car subscription and short-term car lease services.
What makes a Coupé?
A coupé, pronounced “koo-pay,” is a type of car known for its distinctive design charaterised by a closed, fixed-roof body usually with two doors (more on four doors below). The key features of a coupé include a sleek and streamlined profile, emphasizing aesthetic appeal and often prioritising sportiness over practicality. The roofline typically slopes gently towards the rear, creating harmonious flow that contributes to the car’s dynamic appearance.
History of the Coupé
The concept of the coupé dates back to the early 20th century when manufacturers began producing closed-body cars with more streamlined designs. These models were often favoured by the affluent of their elegance. Over time, the coupé evolved, becoming synonymous with luxury, performance and exclusivity. Iconic coupés such as the Jaguar F-Type and the Mercedes-Benz 300SL “Gullwing” left a huge lasting impression the car designs of the future.
Coupé vs. Convertible:
While both coupés and convertibles generally share a two-door configuration, they differ in the roof structure. Coupés have a fixed roof, providing better insulation, structual rigidity and noise reduction. Convertibles on the other hand, feature a retractable roof that can be folded down, allowing for an open-air driving experience. The choice between a coupé and a convertible often depends on the driver’s preferences for style and driving experience.
Coupé vs. Hatchback:
Coupés and hatchbacks also have distinct characteristics. Coupés prioritise style and performance, often sacrificing rear-seat and cargo space for their streamlined design. Hatchbacks, on the other hand, feature a rear door that opens upwards, providing more versatile cargo space and seating options. While both offer can offer 2/3 doors, hatchbacks lean towards practicality, making them a popular choice for urban drivers.
Coupé vs. Saloon:
Coupés and saloons differ primarilty in body style and proportions. Saloons tend to have four doors and separate compartments for passengers and cargo, providing more interior space and practicality. Coupés, on the other hand, offer a more initimate experience of their two-door design, sacrificing some interior space for sportier looks. The choice between the two often comes down to personal style preferences and the desire for a more engaging driving experience.
The rise of Gran Coupés and Sportbacks:
In recent years, a new trend has emerged in the automotive industry – the rise of “gran coupés” or “sportbacks.” These models blend the elegance of a traditional coupé with the practicality of a 4/5dr design. Gran coupés such as the Mercedes-Benz CLA or the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, feature a slightly extended wheelbase and offer improved rear-seat accessibility whout the compromising the sport aesthetics.
Other manufacturers of these sort of vehicles also include Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen. They cater for those who seek a balance between style and functionality.
Notable Coupés Currently Available in the UK
- Alpine A110 Coupe
- Aston Martin Vantage
- Audi A5 Coupe
- Bentley Continental GT
- BMW 2-Series Coupe
- BMW 4-Series Coupe
- BMW 8-Series Coupe
- Ford Mustang Coupe
- Jaguar F-Type Coupe
- Lamborghini Huracan Coupe
- Lamborghini Revuelto Coupe
- Lexus RC Coupe
- Porsche Cayman Coupe
- Porsche 911 Coupe
- Rolls-Royce Wraith Coupe
- Toyota GR Supra Coupe
Coupés on Car Subscription
Please see below our latest coupés available on our vehicle subscription service:
BMW 2 Series
Mercedes-Benz CLE
Mercedes-Benz CLE
Coupés on Short-Term Car Lease
Mercedes-Benz CLE
CLE 300e AMG Line Premium
BMW 2 Series
220i M Sport [Tech Plus]
BMW 2 Series
220i M Sport Pro
What is a 2+2?
WIthin the realm of coupé cars, a notable configuration that often emerges is the “2+2.” This term refers to a seating arrangment that accommodates two passengers in the dront seats and two smaller passengers, usually children or with a squeeze, adults on shorter journeys in the rear seats.
While the rear sears in the 2+2 configuration may be more compact than those in a traditional four-seater, they offer a touch of practicality without compromising the coupés sleek design.
This arrangement caters to individuals or couples seeking occasional rear seating capacity, making the vehicle more versatile while retaining the essence of a classic coupé’s aesthetic and driving experience.
More Information
If you would like any further information on coupés or any other of our short-term solutions, please speak to the team on 01332 290173. You can also use the ENQUIRY FORM at the bottom of this guide.
If you are looking for a coupé on a 2/3 year lease, why not try our Find A Car Lease service. We use no less than 12 different funders to find you the very best car deals, saves you time and could save you money.
