2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS features several visual and interior updates and is based on the same platform as the latest E-Class
Amidst big anticipation, the new Mercedes-Benz CLS made its global premiere at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show. With a strong tagline “The Original Perfected”, the all-new CLS is an important brand for the company’s global image and it will go on sale in Germany this March before entering other markets. It will be offered in CLS 350 d 4MATIC, CLS 400 d 4MATIC and CLS 450 4MATIC variants. Ahead of its market entry, its production has officially begun at the automaker’s Sindelfingen facility near Stuttgart.
The German manufacturer has hinted at the steep history of the original CLS that kick started the premium four-door sedan segment and is looking to excel on its traits with the new model. There is presence of LED headlamps while the grille assembly and the lower portion of the new generation vehicle are highly appealing as well. The overall shape suggests that the design inspiration has indeed been the Concept A sedan.
It obviously features a slender bodywork and less edgy styling of the previous model. The upcoming CLS is based on the same architecture as the latest E-Class. Make no mistake, as the new model does takes design inspiration from the original CLS and boasts the familiar tear drop shape.
The new CLS has an evolutionary design with a sleek single-bar grille with three-pointed star logo flanked by angular LED headlamps while there is presence of raked-out windscreen, beautifully sloping roofline, inverted L-shaped LED DRLs, wing mirrors with integrated turn signals, sporty multi-spoke alloy wheels, slim LED taillamps, etc.
Courtesy of the flexible platform, the new CLS will be wider, longer and lower than its sibling. As for the powertrain, the CLS gets choice of petrol and diesel engines. The lower trim gains a four-pot 282 hp and 600 Nm diesel motor and in the CLS 400d 4Matic the same engine puts out 335 hp and 700 Nm with 0-100 kmph in just 5 seconds.
The higher-spec variants get powered by inline six cylinder petrol engine making 362 hp and 500 Nm torque. The top-of-the-line variants will be AMG prepped as the CLS 63 and CLS 63S will likely be accompanied by the CLS 53 at a later time. It will be positioned between the 43 and the 63 and use the tuned version of M256 inline six engine developing around 430 hp.
The dashboard comprises of a single screen with gauge cluster and infotainment system. It is peculiar to the entire Mercedes portfolio as the curved screen is unusually wide as opposed to the regular 12.3-inch touchscreens positioned close to each other with COMAND infotainment system.
It also features push start/stop button and signature circular AC vents. Other important interior bits are mood lighting and carbon-fibre touches at the centre. Since Mercedes calls the vehicle as ‘CLS Coupe’, we could be seeing a coupe body styled adaptation as well.
Customers can choose from a variety of options including the AMG line exterior and interior styling, dual displays, 40/20/40 split rear seats, multibeam headlights, electronic trailer coupling, Air Balance Package, Comand Online with the Energizing comfort control, Driving Assistance Package comprising of Active Distance Control Distronic, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Pre-S AFE Plus and much more.
The exclusive Edition 1 can be bought in all engine variants for an extra cost of €12,495 (Rs. 9.49 lakh) over standard models. It features black pearl nappa leather seats with diamond design, copper-coloured highlights at the centre, special stitching, exclusive open-pore black ash wood and laser engraving. The entry-level 350 d costs €68,127.50 (Rs. 51.75 lakh), 400 d at €72,506.70 (Rs. 55.07 lakh) and 450 d at €70,906.15 (Rs. 53.86 lakh) in Germany.
In India, the CLS is sold in a single variant for Rs. 73.54 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) as the 250 CDI makes 201 bhp and 50 Nm torque. Driving the rear wheels are through a seven-speed automatic gearbox. Considering Mercedes’ commitment to our luxury market, we can expect the new CLS to arrive in the due course of 2018.
2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS Images
