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AUTOS: Mercedes Reveals Sleek CLS For 2012
Images show coupe-like sedan getting stylistic refinements while maintaining distinctive design.
Bob Golfen  |  Posted August 23, 2010   Montvale, NJ
The next-generation of Mercedes-Benz CLS gets sharpened styling for its grille and front end, with unique LED headlights. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)
Mercedes-Benz lifted the wraps from its sleek 2012 CLS on Sunday, previewing the next generation of its groundbreaking luxury coupe-sedan before its debut at the Paris Auto Show in October.

The German automaker released images of the upcoming CLS on its media website, which provides a taste of the stylish and exclusive sedan with the sloping roofline, which prompted other
manufacturers to follow suit in designing four-door cars with the profiles of coupes.

The next generation continues the theme, with the images showing refinements to the front and rear, and carved details in its flanks, but continuing the distinctive shape, frameless side windows and dramatic stance of the big sedan that arrived in 2003.

Dramatically elongated taillights highlight the new rear treatment. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)
"The new CLS points the way forward for the future perceptible design idiom of Mercedes-Benz," said Gorden Wagener, head of design at Mercedes-Benz. "At the same time, it takes its inspiration from the great tradition of stylish, refined sportiness which has always been a feature of Mercedes coupés."

Among the new innovations are the world’s first full LED headlamps. According to Mercedes-Benz, the lights comprised of “three arrow-shaped layers from top to bottom.” The upper layer contains an LED indicator, beneath which is an LED side light, and a lower level with the main beam and night-driving functions.

“A total of 71 LED's provide an unmistakable appearance as well as a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems,” the company said in its media release.

Mercedes did not reveal changes in the engines or transmissions that will be available for the 2012 CLS. Currently, two models are available, the CLS550 with a 5.5-liter V8 making 382 horsepower and the CLSAMG with a 6.2-liter V8 that generates 507 horsepower. Both engines are linked with seven-speed automatic transmissions.

The Paris Auto Show runs Oct. 2-17.

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