Unofficial Picture: 2011 Mercedes CLS


We've seen design concepts, spy shots, and unofficial renderings of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS that have given us a pretty good idea of how the actual production version will shape up when it arrives at the Paris Motor Show later this year. But now, thanks to a leaked brochure, we've got official images of the second coming of Mercedes' original four-door coupe.

With so much build-up to the real deal, we're not too surprised by what we see here. Mercedes' Shooting Break concept gave us our most developed official preview of how the CLS would be styled, albeit with a 'shooting brake' style wagon-like appearance. From there, lightly camouflaged test mules and artist renderings filled in most of the details. The CLS takes many cues from the new E-Class sedan, with its bulging rear fenders and svelte tail treatment, while the front grille is more upright than in the original CLS. LED exterior lighting is found front and rear.

Inside, Mercedes keeps the four-seat arrangement with two individually sculpted buckets in the rear and a center console design that continues nearly uninterrupted from the front of the cabin all the way back to the rear. A three-spoke steering wheel and three large, round gauges keep the driver's seat involving, and we're expecting a bevy of the latest technological gadgetry to compliment the opulent environment when we see the car in the sheet metal for the first time this October.

We're still expecting a couple different engine options for the U.S.-spec CLS, including a naturally aspirated, direct-injected V-6 and a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8. Stay tuned to Motor Trend Online for more info as it becomes available.

Thanks to: Motor Trend