Mercedes facelifts the CLS range with more luxury and technology

The aesthetics of the latest generation CLS-Class range come across as even more dynamic, mainly due to the new, expressive diamond radiator grille, a striking front bumper with large air intakes, Multibeam LED headlamps in addition to the slightly darkened taillights with multi-level function.

Ample space, sporty elegance and high-quality materials exert the stylistic influence on the interior of the CLS family. A host of exquisite details underscore the interior's quality both in visual and tactile terms.

Other new features include a redesigned three-spoke sports steering wheel, and among others, an 8.0-inch free standing display.

The new AMG Line Plus supplements the previously available trim lines, while a special Night package is scheduled to give buyers further choice at the end of the year.

A new addition in this class is the CLS220 BLUETEC with a four-cylinder diesel engine featuring fourth generation common rail direct injection, two-stage turbocharging and BLUETEC technology. It produces 170bhp and offers maximum torque of 400Nm. 

204bhp and torque of 500Nm are on tap from the four-cylinder diesel unit in the CLS250 BLUETEC while the V6 diesel unit in the CLS350 BLUETEC exceeds these figures with 258bhp and torque of 620Nm.

Equally new is the V6 petrol engine with turbocharging in the CLS400 with a 3.5-litre displacement and bi-turbo drive.

Compared to its predecessor with a naturally aspirated engine, it produces 26bhp more power with 333bhp, while torque has increased to 480Nm, available under a wide range of 1,200rpm to 4,000rpm.

The CLS500 with 408bhp and up to 600Nm of torque leads the field in the power output ratings for non-AMG models.

Four instead of the previous two models will be available in future with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, including the CLS250 BLUETEC and the CLS400.

Cutting-edge technology also comes in the shape of 9G-TRONIC, a nine-speed automatic transmission with hydrodynamic torque converter. With nine forward gears, the 9G‑TRONIC manages to reduce fuel consumption, while further enhancing shift comfort and agility.

The CLS-Class will in future be fitted with a host of new assistance systems along with upgraded existing systems. Standard features include the Collision Prevention Assist Plus, which can help prevent rear end collisions - if necessary - through autonomous braking. The state-of-the-art assistance systems from the S-Class can also be fitted as an option.