Mercedes CLS-Class:

New generation CLS coming in 2010

When Mercedes unveiled the CLS back in 2004 it defined the phrase "four-door coupe". It was an original car that had the market all to itself, but now the Volkswagen Passat CC as well as the upcoming BMW 8-Series and Audi A7 have all caught the trend. So, to keep with times, Mercedes will need to come with a new design, more power and better technology for its CLS. This should come together in next generation CLS expected in 2010.

The next CLS will likely be a simpler design. The side will have a more defined arch, the L-shaped headlamps are gone, and the front end will be given the family update to be more in line with the latest SL. The flanks are more three-dimensional, with rear power bulges, prominent character lines, and flared wheel arches. The A- and C-pillars are better integrated into the arc-shaped roofline.

Regarding the line-up, customers will have to choose from: a CLS350, powered by a 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 that delivers 292 hp; power output increases to 306 hp in 2012; a CLS550 powered by a 5.5-liter V-8 with 388 hp; superseded by 435-hp direct-injection twin-turbo V-8 in 2012; a CLS55 AMG powered by the 5.5-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V-8 with 570 hp; available from mid-2011 onward and a diesel version, the CLS320 CDI, 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6, 224 hp; replaced in 2011 by 313-hp CLS350 CDI.

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will also be hybrid

Mercedes is already working at the second generation CLS that will make its world debut during a major car show in late 2010 with sales following in early 2011. Big news is, that next to the standard engine, the future CLS will also be offered as a hybrid.

It will get the same powertrain as the forthcoming S400 Hybrid that will be launched at the end of 2009, which means that the CLS Hybrid will make use of lithium-ion batteries that not only weigh less but also offer more power than the nickel hydride units used in today’s hybrids.

Design will follow the basic shape of the current generation model adorned with styling elements from the German automaker’s newest cars.

Lorinser CLS L 55 RS based on the Mercedes CLS

Based on the facelifted Mercedes CLS, the Lorinser CLS L 55 RS body kit features a front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, rear air diffuser with integrated sport exhaust system, 20” alloy Lorinser RS 6 wheels and a stylish rear spoiler. With 388 hp as standard, the engine received an upgrade of 72 hp, now developing 460 hp and 530 Nm of torque. The interior of the vehicle also received a plus of sportivity with carbon fiber insertions for the arm rest and center console.

2009 Mercedes CLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz is making the CLS even more irresistible. This one-of-a-kind four-door coupé – the pioneer of a whole new automotive segment – has now been fine-tuned to give it added appeal. The new entry-level model version, the CLS 280 with its sophisticated V6 power unit, develops 170 kW/231 hp. Meanwhile, the flagship model in the range – the CLS 63 AMG with its 378 kW/514 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine – now comes with 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels plus a new AMG sports exhaust system.
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