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V6 that delivers 292 hp; power output increases to 306 hp in 2012; a CLS550 powered by a 5.5-liter V-8 with 388 hp; superseded by 435-hp direct-injection twin-turbo V-8 in 2012; a CLS55 AMG powered by the 5.5-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V-8 with 570 hp; available from mid-2011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.
