Mercedes-Benz started a trend—created an entire segment—when it launched the CLS “four-door coupe” in 2003. The formula—a four-door, four-seat luxury car with coupe-like styling—seemed dubious to many industry watchers, but it caught on instantly with buyers who wanted something different. Since then, the success of the CLS (with 170,000 cars sold) elicited competition from the likes of the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin Rapide, and the hideous BMW 5 Series GT.
Mercedes has now released photos of the second-generation CLS. The profile follows the banana-like shape of the original, with more styling flourishes in a more upright nose and pronounced fender flares in the rear quarters, similar to those of the E-Class (on which the CLS is based). To our eyes, it has lost some of the purity of shape of its predecessor, which seemed be formed from one continuous curve. The narrow, frameless side windows and arc-form roof are similar to the first CLS. The headlamps are full LED, divided into three segments for indicator, low beam and high beam. 71 LEDs comprise each side of the headlamp system. The arrow-shaped indicator within the headlamp that mimics the indicator on the side mirrors is a nice design touch.
Inside, the CLS echoes the curvaceous styling theme, a departure from the E-Class’ distinctly angular interior. Satin and high-gloss metal trim create some contrast, as in the matt air vents and the high-gloss analog clock. Leather trim called “Passion” is reportedly the warmest and softest leather available. Several choices of wood trim—brown burr walnut, black ash or brown poplar—are available. For a more modern touch, piano lacquer or carbon-fiber trim can be specified.
The new CLS is set to swoop into the Paris Motor Show in October 2010.
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