The CLS created a new vehicle category in 2003 which for the first time combined the elegance and dynamism of a coupé with the comfort and functionality of a saloon. Since October 2004, it has been the car of choice for some 170,000 buyers around the globe. "Customers all over the world have rewarded us for our courage in launching a completely new vehicle concept onto the market," explains a delighted Dr Joachim Schmidt, Head of Sales & Marketing for Mercedes-Benz. "And with its exciting design and refined sportiness, the new edition of the CLS also benefits from the fact that we are a whole generation ahead of the competition with our four-door Coupé."

The engines: higher output, yet up to 25 percent lower fuel consumption

Efficiency at the highest level: that is what characterises all four engines deployed in the Mercedes-Benz CLS. The output and torque of each engine is greater than in its predecessor; at the same time, fuel consumption has been drastically reduced, by up to 25 percent. Two 6-cylinder models will be available at first at the European market launch in January 2011: the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with 195 kW (265 hp) and the CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY  with 225 kW (306 hp) and the ECO start/stop function as standard.

Lightweight construction and aerodynamics: important contributions to
efficiency

Intelligent lightweight construction plays a decisive role in bridging the classic conflict of objectives between low weight and high strength in the new CLS. The CLS is thus the first vehicle from Mercedes-Benz to have frameless, all-aluminium doors.

These are made from deep-drawn aluminium panels with extruded sections, and in comparison with conventional steel doors, are some 24 kilograms lighter. Apart from the doors, the bonnet, front wings, boot lid, parcel shelf, various support profiles and substantial parts of the suspension and engines are all made of aluminium.

Aerodynamics play an important part in the outstanding efficiency of the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Although the new model is wider than its predecessor and thus presents more frontal area to the wind, it was possible to reduce wind resistance by up to ten percent. This is thanks to the Cd value of 0.26, which has been improved by 13 percent.

Electromechanical power steering: a new steering experience

Marrying the ultimate in driving dynamics to the very best in long-distance ride comfort, was the challenge set for the designers and developers of the suspension system for the new Coupé, which aspires to be the epitome of stylish sportiness in both form and function.

To achieve this, the suspension system, which had already attracted the highest praise from both the trade press and the public when introduced with the new E-Class, was completely re-tuned and enhanced with a key new component: the electromechanical power steering system makes its world debut in the new CLS.

The exterior: classic Coupé styling with distinctive front

The new CLS continues with the pioneering role of its predecessor and at the  same time shows itself to be a brand-new star on the scene. What immediately strikes the eye is the innovative front design, which is reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Visually, the radiator grille is not integrated into the bonnet but is formed separately. This highlights the long, sporty bonnet even further. The grille is dominated by the large central star, which underlines the car's relationship to the other coupés of the brand and strengthens the brand identity.

The typical CLS outline, with its elegantly long proportions, is the dominating attribute of the new model. The effect of the dynamic, athletic form has been enhanced with a new interplay of lines and areas.

The front edge of the structure above the wings slopes off towards the rear. This novel design feature, called the dropping line by designers, represents a new interpretation of a formal design element harking back to the uniquely rich wealth of forms present in historic Mercedes sports cars.

A distinctive and muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle highlights the athletic character of the new CLS. The flared wheel arches resemble the powerful thighs of a feline predator waiting to pounce.

Technical Specifications

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG (A)

Engine
Type: V8 bi-turbo
Displacement: 5461cc
Max Power (bhp): 525 @ 5250-5750rpm
Max Torque (Nm): 700 @ 1700-5000rpm

Dimensions
Length (mm): 4940
Width (mm): 2075
Height (mm): 1416
Wheelbase (mm): 2874

Performance
Max Speed (km/h): 250*
Acceleration 0 - 100km/h (s): 4.4

Price: $508,888**

Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 (A)

Engine
Type: V6
Displacement: 3498cc
Max Power (bhp): 306 @ 6500rpm
Max Torque (Nm): 370 @ 3500-5250rpm

Dimensions
Length (mm): 4940
Width (mm): 2075
Height (mm): 1416
Wheelbase (mm): 2874

Performance
Max Speed (km/h): 250*
Acceleration 0 - 100km/h (s): 6.1

Price: $328,888**

*Electronically limited

**Prices include COE