The Mercedes CLS range -- both the four-door coupe and ‘shooting brake’ estate -- get a mid life facelift, spruced up interiors, additional new technology and two new engine options. The CLS’ new futuristic multibeam LED headlamps automatically adjust light distribution, whatever the road and traffic conditions are. This technology basically ensures that other drivers are not blinded by the lights. Connected to the CLS' dash mounted camera, the LED lamps can also anticipate bends before the steering wheel is even turned. The active light function swivels back to the straight-ahead position before the end of the bend. This allows the driver to identify dangers earlier when entering and exiting bends. The anticipatory control allows an additional range of between 30 and 60 metres depending on the traffic situation. According to Mercedes-Benz, the system is so advanced that the high-beams can be used at all times without irritating or even endangering other road users.
The new CLS looks more like the new C-Class but more distinguished with larger air intakes and a new diamond grille. The front bumper flexes more muscles while the rear lamps give a darker look. The CLS now comes with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which is a torque convertor automatic, not a dual-clutch unit. In terms of efficiency, the nine forward gears reduce fuel consumption and at the same time has improved shift comfort and agility.
The CLS range gets two new powertrains. At the entry level is the CLS 220 BlueTEC which is powered by the four-cylinder diesel engine and produces 170 hp and offers maximum torque of 400 Nm. While the more exciting one is the new V6 petrol engine with turbocharging in the CLS 400. The 3.5 litre displacement and biturbo drive churns out 328bhp. The CLS also comes with two more diesel options, the CLS 250 BlueTEC with 204bhp and torque of 500 Nm and the CLS 350 BlueTEC's V6 diesel unit with figures like 258 hp and torque of 620 Nm. The flagship model, the CLS 63 AMG is powered by the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8, which now makes 577bhp.
Inside, it now comes with five colours, six trim finishes as well as grades of leather ranging from leather to Exclusive PASSION leather and a host of potential individualisation options. It now comes with a free-standing colour display in the head unit with 8 inch screen. Other new features include a redesigned three-spoke sports steering wheel and the central control console has four instead of the previous two buttons, making operating steps simpler.
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