The New Mercedes-Benz CLS: Third generation of the original four-door coupe

The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLS is here and it looks good. Pioneering a new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, which is recognizable by its clear contours and reduced lines, the new CLS looks different, albeit rather good – no matter what some pundits will undoubtedly say.

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. We’ve seen the same design on the C-Class, E-Class and S-Class coupe’s, giving their vehicles – especially in person – quite a dynamic, aggressive and devilish look.

At the same time, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS design reflects the timeless aura of the first CLS, which founded a new segment and quickly became a design icon. All the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS models come 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, unrivaled technology.

The range of engines for the CLS is completely new. Three six-cylinder models will be available on market launch:

• CLS 350 d 4MATIC (210 kW/286 hp, 600 Nm; combined fuel consumption 5.6 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined 148 g/km)
• CLS 400 d 4MATIC (250 kW/340 hp, 700 Nm; combined fuel consumption 5.6 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined 148 g/km)
• CLS d 450 4MATIC (270 + 16 kW/367 hp + 22 hp; combined fuel consumption 7.5 l/100 km, CO₂emissions combined 178 g/km).

In 2003, 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 c_d value of 0.26 is positive proof of outstanding aerodynamics.

While, for most, the new design (as with Audi and BMW of newer generations) will have to be an acquired taste, the vehicle does look really good. We’ll wait for the CLS63 and CLS65 AMG models to make the final call, but we already kinda like it – a lot. The four-door coupé will enter the market in March 2018 with prices have yet to be revealed.

Take a look at the detailed media gallery of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS right below.