New Mercedes CLS

Auto Car have revealed the new Mercedes CLS which is to be released in the UK next year. The current CLS model has been with us since 2004, initially I hated it, I thought it looked like a tortoise or an ant eater. Recently however the CLS has become very appealing to me.

Many accredit the CLS for introducing the 4 Door Coupe concept, prompting Audi to release the Audi A7. Since its inception Mercedes has sold more than 170,000 examples of the original car.

 

As with the outgoing model the new CLS is based on a modified version of the current E-class floorpan, with wider tracks to help give it a more aggressive stance. Official dimensions have not been released yet, but the car is wider and longer than the outgoing model, and wider but lower than the E-class saloon.


It features a gaping grille that is similar to what has been already introduced on the SLS. Mercedes says the grille, which sits separate from the engine cover helps to make the bonnet look longer. The CLS will be offered with optional headlight units made up entirely from LEDs. Each set-up contains 71 LEDs, which work on dipped and main beam, sidelights and indicators.

A 4.7-litre V8 replaces the outgoing 5.4-litre unit by adding twin turbochargers. It has almost a third more torque, and 12 per cent more power, as well as improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions. The diesel options will be Mercedes’ latest 3.0-litre common-rail V6 engine, with 231bhp, and the CLS250 CDI, equipped with a 2.1-litre, twin-turbocharged four-cylinder unit.All engines will come with Mercedes' 7 Speed auto box.