Mercedes finally unveils the next generation CLS

When Mercedes launched its 4-door coupé back in '03, most people didn't quite know what to say.

Sure, it was a good idea - a four-place GT car, with the flowing lines of a coupé. Who wouldn't want one?

In fact, the CLS proved so popular that MB unwittingly created an entire market segment. The Aston Martin Rapide, the Audi A7, even the Volkswagen CC owes partial credit to Mercedes for launching the segment.

And now it's time for Act II™

Having sold over 170,000 copies of the first CLS, Mercedes chose to go with an "evolutionary" styling theme.

The new car retains the same basic shape, but gets (very) pronounced rear quarter panels, and character lines leading into a more blunt grill, and front fascia.

While the new car isn't™as elegant as the first generation, it only takes a few minutes of looking at the pictures, before you start wanting one.

One unique feature of the new CLS is the full-LED headlamps. Not only do they look seriously aggressive, but they also contain 71 individual LED's. So, you'll be able to™more completely blind oncoming drivers.

Inside, the new CLS does away with the simple elegance of the previous model. In place of the simple, un-varnished wood dash, the new car gets a™button-fest. They say that it takes 4 animal hides to complete the CLS's interior. But, that quality workmanship seems a bit lost amid all of the™buttons, and complicated shapes.

And, whatever happened to using a traditional gear lever? Without it, there's definitely room for more™buttons. But, why must all modern luxury cars be so complicated?

Anyway, the new CLS will officially début at the Paris Motor Show this fall.