2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class: First Look

Jay Williams - 24/August/2010

Stuttgart, Germany -  Mercedes-Benz has officially released details of it's 2012 CLS-Class which is set to make its debut at the Paris motor show on October 2nd.

A generation ahead: with the CLS, Mercedes-Benz created a new vehicle category in 2003 which for the first time combined the elegance and dynamism of a coupé with the comfort and functionality of a saloon.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS features a long bonnet, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows and a sweeping roof line that angles towards the rear.

Most notably the 2012 CLS is visually more aggressive, the large, elongated dark air inlets with black grilles add to the vehicle's masculine appearance.

Another distinguishing feature comes in the form of the full LED headlamps, which are the world's first to offer all of the regular dynamic light functions using LED technology. This innovation boasts an impressive design - inside they are divided into three arrow-shaped layers from top to bottom: the upper layer contains an LED indicator, beneath which is a striking LED side light offering LED low beam functions. The side light can also be seen when the dipped beam function is switched on, thereby creating a novel and separate night-time design and distinctive look. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview functions. A total of 71 LED's not only provide an unmistakable appearance, but also a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems.

One of the more distinctive changes is the sports-car like shoulder line above the rear axle that highlights the athletic character of the new CLS. While the flared wheel arches complete the look.

The interior features a wrap-around cockpit: a high line sweeps from the driver's door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door. The central display has also been integrated seamlessly into the upper part of the instrument panel. At the same time, the downward sweeping side line on the doors continues the dropping line of the exterior.

The 2012 CLS has a wide variety of options to choose from. Five interior colours, five trim designs and also three qualities of leather are available.

In addition, high-gloss wood panels are also used inside the cabin - on the dash, center console and door linings. Buyers have a choice of brown burl walnut or black ash.

Mercedes-Benz is yet to confirm any powerplants for the 2012 CLS-Class, but, we can expect details closer to its launch in October.

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