In 2004, with the CLS, Mercedes-Benz created a new vehicle segment that for the first time combined the elegance and dynamism of a coupé with the comfort and functionality of a saloon. With the third generation of the CLS, Mercedes-Benz is now building more strongly than ever on the aura and unique character of this trendsetting model: the new model has pure CLS genes with its arching waistline, flat side window lines and low greenhouse. At the same time it is another example of the logical evolution of the Sensual Purity design idiom: sharp edges and lines have been significantly reduced. It blends seamlessly into the current Mercedes-Benz coupé family with numerous design features. Its cd value of 0.26 is positive proof of outstanding aerodynamics. The new CLS pioneers the new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, which is recognisable by its clear contours and reduced lines. Its character is marked by a grille contour that widens towards the base and a forward-slanting front section. Other features include wide, low-set headlamps and two-section tail lights. At the same time the design reflects the timeless aura of the first CLS, which founded a new segment and quickly became a design icon. All CLS models are equipped with new engines: in-line six-cylinder and in-line four-cylinder units as diesel and petrol versions. Like its predecessors, the new CLS exudes self-assured sportiness in exemplary style: a highly emotive vehicle offering impressive long-distance and acoustic comfort coupled with thrilling, unrivalled technology. The four-door coupé will enter the market in March 2018. The new CLS generation has many things in common with the new S‑Class, the automotive flagship of the entire industry: the CLS is equipped with the latest generation of driving assistance systems, with route-based driver support provided by the Driving Assistance Package. Active Distance Control DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist now provide even more comfortable support for the driver to keep a safe distance and steer. The speed is now adjusted automatically ahead of bends or junctions. Thanks to improved camera and radar systems, the new CLS also has an even better view of the surrounding traffic. For the first time it also makes use of map and navigation data to calculate driving behaviour. In stop & go traffic on motorways and similar roads, stops of up to 30 seconds are now possible, during which time the CLS starts moving again automatically and follows the traffic. The third generation of the CLS is powered by completely new engines, initially in-line six-cylinder diesel and petrol units. Also characteristic of the four-door coupé is the extensive range of 4MATIC models. The output of the diesel unit ranges from 210 kW (286 PS) and 600 Nm of torque in the CLS 350 d 4MATIC through to 250 kW (340 PS) and 700 Nm in the CLS 400 d 4MATIC. The special traits of the top-of-the-line engine in the diesel family include the stepped-bowl combustion process, two-stage turbocharging and, for the first time, the use of CAMTRONIC variable valve-lift control. Its design features a combination of an aluminium engine block and steel pistons as well as further improved NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder walls. The most powerful engine is the six-cylinder petrol unit. The new, systematically electrified in-line six-cylinder with EQ Boost (integrated starter/generator) and a 48 volt onboard electrical system powers the CLS 450 4MATIC. Its performance data: 270 kW (367 PS) and 500 Nm plus a further 250 Nm of torque and 16 kW (22 PS) available via EQ Boost over short periods. The integrated electric motor known as EQ Boost assists the combustion engine e.g. when accelerating, makes driving without the combustion engine possible (“sailing”) and supplies the battery with power by means of high-efficiency recuperation. By doing so it makes fuel savings possible that were previously the exclusive domain of high-voltage hybrid technology. All in all, the new in-line six-cylinder engine delivers the performance of an eight-cylinder engine with significantly lower consumption. The CLS 450 4MATIC is equipped with a particulate filter as standard. The new CLS has a four-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. A dynamically set-up steel comfort suspension is standard equipment. The optionally available DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL suspension has a sporty basic setup and includes continuously adjustable damping at the front and rear axle. The selectable driving modes are Comfort, Sport and Sport+. Also available on request is the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension with an improved, adjustable and adaptive damping system. The driver is able to choose vehicle characteristics from comfortable to sporty using the driving mode switch. In the fully digital cockpit, the driver is able to freely configure the information content according to need and the driving situation. Three different styles can be selected depending on preference, mood, or to suit the interior appointments. The Classic and Sport styles have a basic structure with two tubes, while the Progressive style surprises and polarises with a structure having a central, tube-shaped instrument. The ambience lighting is individually adjustable in 64 colours, and also includes the air vents. The seats were designed exclusively for this model series. Depending on the interior, they feature high-quality piping or transverse seams. The outer seats in the rear have the same appearance as the front seats, creating a sporty single-seat impression, although the CLS Coupé is in fact a five-seater for the first time.
