conceptcarz.com

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

The new Mercedes-Benz CLS : Refined sportiness

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
•Distinctive: elegant coupé outline combined with the expressive front end
•Lavish: generous use of flawlessly crafted natural materials
Bold proportions: a long hood, compact greenhouse with frameless side windows, dramatic roof sweeping back at an angle towards the rear - these are the hallmarks of the CLS-Class. In 2003 the four-door Coupé was born and the Mercedes- Benz CLS immediately established itself as a new style icon. For 2012 the proportions remain the same but the second generation of this design trendsetter has a completely new look. The 2012 CLS550 goes on-sale in the Ú.S. during the summer of 2011.2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
What immediately strikes the eye is the innovative front design, which is reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Visually, the radiator grille is not integrated into the hood but is formed separately. This highlights the long, dramatic hood even further. The grille is dominated by the large central star, which underlines the car's relationship to the other coupes of the brand and strengthens the brand identity. The large, elongated dark air inlets with black grilles also add to the vehicle's athletic appearance.

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
Another distinguishing feature comes in the form of the optional LED High Performance Active headlamps, which are the world's first to offer all the dynamic light functions using LED technology. This innovation boasts an impressive design - inside it is 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 highbeam function is switched on, thereby creating a unique night-time design. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview functions. A total of 71 LEDs not only provide an unmistakable appearance, but also offer a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems.


2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-ClassThe typical CLS outline, with its elegantly long proportions, is the dominating feature of the new model. The effect of the dramatic, athletic form has been enhanced with a new interplay of lines and areas. The front edge of the structure above the wheelwells slopes off towards the rear. This novel design feature, called the dropping line by designers, represents a new interpretation of a formal design element harking back to the uniquely rich forms present in historic Mercedes sports cars.

A distinctive and muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle highlights the athletic character of the new CLS. The flared wheel arches resemble the powerful thighs of a feline predator waiting to pounce.

The side view is rounded-off with wide wrap-around tail lights featuring LED technology which are arranged in the form of a linking element to the rear of the vehicle. The shape is emphasized by the broad shoulder line, which is clearly visible from behind and supports the flat hardtop. A wide metal insert adds a further visual highlight at the rear.


The interior: design brings quality to life

The interior of the CLS is also distinguished by a timeless design which combines straightforward elegance with innovative details and handcrafted perfection. An eye-catching feature is the wrap-around effect of the cockpit: a high line sweeps from the driver's door over the instrument cluster 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 dynamic dropping line of the exterior.

The CLS also lives up to its role as a design icon thanks to the innovative nature of the materials used. These comprise an exciting mixture of satin and high-gloss finishes used on the metal surfaces. Highlights here also include matte galvanized air vents, for example, which form the ideal framework for a high-glosstrimmed analogue clock.

Handcrafted perfection is reflected in details such as the stitched seat covers or the sewn covering for the dashboard. The leather dashboard parts are sewn together by hand in a process which takes several hours, after which they are fitted and upholstered with high-quality foam. Prior to this process, the leather is also heated to preshrink it, so that it will retain its shape even after extreme exposure to direct sunlight.

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-ClassThe refined sportiness of the interior of the CLS is further reflected in the generous use of high-quality trim elements. They are located on the instrument panel support of the center console and on parts of the door linings. Customers can choose between two exclusive types of wood: high-gloss brown burl walnut or high-gloss black ash. The wood has been perfectly fitted around difficult contours for a masterful handcrafted finish, and the wood trim has been matched according to grain, as part of an elaborate selection process, to create a harmonized overall impression.

Source - Mercedes-Benz

The New CLS - the New Design Icon from Mercedes-Benz

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
•The CLS brings refined performance to life
•Embodiement of the Mercedes-Benz brand values
•Athletic proportions, strong design language
•Expressive front design features central star in the grille
•Dynamic character line flowing back towards the rear
•Elegance with handcrafted details in the interior
A generation ahead: The CLS-Class created a new vehicle category in 2003 by combining the elegance and expressiveness of a coupé with the comfort and functionality of a sedan. (concept carz) The CLS delighted the public, astounded the competition and created a new style icon: for years the CLS has endured as the only four-door coupé in its class, and since October 2004 it has been the car of choice for around 170,000 buyers worldwide. 'Customers all over the world benefited from our bold move to launch a completely new vehicle concept onto the market', explains a delighted Dr. Joachim Schmidt, member of the board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales & Marketing. 'And with its exciting design, the new edition of the CLS also benefits from the fact that we are a whole generation ahead of the competition with our four-door Coupé.'

Celebrating its world premiere at the Paris motor show (October 2 – 17, 2010), the 2012 CLS-Class builds on the pioneering role of its predecessor with a fresh new interpretation. 'The new CLS points the way forward for the future perceptible design idiom of Mercedes-Benz', explains Professor 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.'

Exterior: classic Coupé styling with distinctive front

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-ClassThe proportions remain as spectacular as ever: long hood, tightly-styled frameless side windows and a dynamic roof sweeping back at an angle towards the rear. The four-door Coupé from Mercedes-Benz immediately made its mark in 2003 as a new style icon. Though the proportions are the same, the second generation of this design trendsetter has a completely new look.

What immediately strikes the eye is the innovative front design, which is reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Visually, the radiator grille is not integrated into the hood but formed separately. This further highlights the long, sporty hood. The grille is dominated by the large central star, which unites the car with other Mercedes-Benz coupés and also enhances brand identity. The large, elongated dark air inlets with black grilles also add to the vehicle's athletic appearance.

Design brings high-tech features to life

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
Another distinguishing feature comes in the form of the full LED headlamps, which are the world's first to offer all of the 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 offers LED low beam functions. The side light can also be seen when the high beam is activated, thereby creating a unique night-time design. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview 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 typical CLS outline, with its elegantly long proportions, is the dominating attribute of the new model. The effect of the dynamic, athletic form has been enhanced with a new interplay of lines and surfaces. A unique 'dropping line', which begins above the front wheel-wells and slopes downward towards the rear, represents a new interpretation of a renowned design hallmark of historic Mercedes sports cars.
A distinctive and muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle highlights the athletic character of the 2012 CLS. The flared wheel arches resemble the powerful thighs of a feline predator waiting to pounce.

The side profile is rounded off with wide wrap-around tail lights featuring LED technology -- a linking element to the rear of the vehicle. The shape is emphasized by the broad shoulder line, which is clearly visible from behind and supports the flat roof. A wide metal insert adds a further visual highlight at the rear.

The interior: design brings quality to life

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
The interior of the 2012 CLS-Class is also distinguished by a timeless design which combines discreet elegance with innovative details and handcrafted perfection. The eye-catching cockpit features a wrap-around dashboard sweeping 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.

The CLS also lives up to its role as a design icon thanks to the innovative nature of the materials used, including a mixture of satin and high-gloss finishes used on the metal surfaces. Highlights also include matte galvanized air vents which ideally compliment a high-gloss-trimmed analogue clock.

Handcrafted perfection is reflected in details such as the stitched seat covers and dashboard. The individual parts of the leather dashboard are sewn together by hand in a process which takes several hours, after which they are fitted and upholstered with high-quality padding. Prior to this process, the leather is also heated to preshrink it, so that it will retain its shape even after extreme exposure to direct sunlight.

Around four animal skins are processed for each CLS. The particularly exclusive 1.6-millimetre thick semi-aniline premium leather meets the highest standards of both look and feel. The natural pore structure remains intact thanks to a light pigmentation, and the leather has an especially warm and soft feel to it. Premium leather requires a very precise manual selection process and therefore a high amount of raw leather.

The refined interior of the CLS is further reflected in the generous use of high-quality trim elements, located on the instrument panels, center console and door linings. Customers can choose between high-gloss brown burl walnut or high-gloss black ash. The wood has been perfectly fitted around difficult contours for a masterful handcrafted finish, and the wood trim has been matched according to grain as part of an sophisticated selection process to create a consistent overall impression.

For an even more progressive look, black piano lacquer or carbon fiber trim elements are also available. Handcrafted as well, up to seven layers are applied and polished for the piano lacquer trim until the high-gloss finish is achieved.

Source - Mercedes-Benz

AMG V8 biturbo engine with up to 33 percent better fuel economy

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
Stunning design, superior performance and groundbreaking efficiency - that is the all-new 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG. The four-door coupe features the all-new AMG V8 biturbo engine generating an output of up to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, as well as the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed Sports Transmission. Fuel economy of 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway (estimated figures) represents an improvement of up to 33 percent compared with the preceding model. The 2012 CLS63 AMG goes on sale in the ÚS in the summer of 2011.

The combination of AMG Adaptive Suspension with the adaptive damping system and a new front axle arrangement, plus new electro-hydraulic AMG sports steering delivers supreme handling and dynamics. From a visual standpoint, the 2012 CLS63 AMG cuts an impressive figure with its athletic stance and distinctive exterior and interior design. The brand new active LED high-performance headlights are available as an option, with LED Daytime Running Lamps fitted as standard.

'The new CLS63 AMG writes the next chapter in the success story created by the CLS55 AMG and CLS63 AMG, which have been amazing our customers around the world since 2004,' says Ola Källenius, General Manager of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. 'The CLS63 AMG is a unique, high-performance automobile - it sets new benchmarks in design, performance and efficiency.'

As with the S63 AMG and CL63 AMG, drivers of the CLS63 AMG benefit from the new eight-cylinder motor known internally as the M 157. The new AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine features a combination of high-tech components - in addition to spray-guided gasoline direct injection with piezo injectors, it boasts an all-aluminum crank-case, four-valve technology with variable camshafts, air-water charge-air cooling, generator management and stop/start system. From 5,461 cm3, the eight-cylinder generates a maximum output of 518 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. In combination with the optional AMG Performance Package, output rises to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft. Both versions of the CLS63 AMG deliver exceptional performance - acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively, with a top speed of 155 mph in the standard version and 186 mph with the Performance Package (electronically limited. All figures are preliminary).

The key difference between the two performance levels is the maximum charge pressure of the twin turbochargers, which is 14.5 psi in the standard CLS63 AMG and 18.8 psi with the Performance Package. Moreover, the version with the Performance Package boasts an attractive engine cover with carbon-fiber applications.

Quantum leap - 33 percent improved fuel economyDespite a substantial increase in output compared with the preceding model with the AMG 6.3-liter V8 naturally aspirated engine producing 507 hp and 465 lb-ft, the new CLS63 AMG goes 4 miles further in the city on one gallon of fuel, making it 33 percent more fuel-efficient - no less than a quantum leap. With estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway, the new AMG V8 coupe is not only considerably better than all of its direct competitors in the exclusive segment of high-performance four-door coupes, it is also more fuel-efficient than many far less potent vehicles. Both performance variants have identical fuel economy.

Exclusive - AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed Sport Transmission

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
A significant proportion of the unparalleled fuel economy is due to the Mercedes- AMG exclusive AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed Sport Transmission. In contrast to a conventional automatic gearbox, the MCT transmission operates without a torque converter, using instead a compact, wet start-up clutch. The stop/start function is standard equipment and is constantly active in the Controlled Efficiency ('C') transmission program, switching off the eight-cylinder when the vehicle is at a standstill. The Controlled Efficiency setting also provides smoother transmission mapping, delivering comfortable and early shifting, starting from rest in second gear. A green 'ECO' symbol on the AMG dash indicates to the driver that the stop/start function is active.
The 'S' (Sport), 'S+' (Sport Plus) and 'M' (Manual) programs offer a more agile engine and transmission setup, while the stop/start function is deactivated. In the 'M', 'S' and 'S+' modes, the engine management partially suppresses the cylinders - by interrupting ignition and injection for a very short and precisely defined period under full load, it makes shift times faster than ever. One highly appealing side effect of this exceptionally quick process is a stunningly emotional sound. Automatic revmatching and the RACE START function round out the comprehensive list of standard equipment.

Independent AMG Adaptive Suspension

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
The suspension, steering and braking system on the new CLS63 AMG are perfectly matched to the high-tech driveline. The AMG Adaptive Suspension with steel struts at the front and air suspension at the rear, as well as automatic ride-height control, is further refined with an electronic damping system. Depending on the situation, it automatically varies the damping characteristics and reduces body roll. The outcome is an incredibly fast correlation between optimum comfort and best-possible agility. The driver can switch between the three suspension settings 'Comfort', 'Sport' and 'Sport plus' at the touch of a button.

The independent front axle setup has a 0.94 inch wider track and is paired perfectly with the electro-hydraulic AMG sports steering. Not only does the level of power assistance vary in accordance with the suspension mode, it also delivers an improvement in fuel economy because it draws energy only when the steering is actually in use. The 3-stage ESP® offers individual settings - and thus a distinct plus for driving fun with no restriction in safety.

AMG high-performance braking system

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
The AMG high-performance braking system provides perfect stopping power even under extreme driving conditions with 14.2-inch internally ventilated and crossdrilled brake discs at all four corners. The front axle features highly resilient, motorsport- tested composite technology. Contact with the road is maintained with titanium gray painted and polished AMG 19-inch triple 5-spoke alloy wheels clad in 255/35 R19 tires (front) and 285/30 R19 (rear).

Intelligent lightweight design - major contribution to efficiency

When it comes to its bodyshell, the 2012 CLS63 AMG is nothing less than an engineering work of art - intelligent lightweight design plays a major role in overcoming the classic conflict between low weight and high stiffness. Like the SLS AMG, the CLS63 AMG also features all-aluminum doors. They are made using deep-drawn aluminum sheet and extruded profile, and are around 24 percent lighter overall than conventional steel doors. Also made from aluminum are the hood, front fenders, rear parcel shelf, several beam profiles and a large number of chassis and engine components.
Progress through light - active LED high-performance headlamps

The CLS-Class is the first model line in the world to feature active LED highperformance headlamps that combine the amazing daylight-like color of LED technology with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of today's bi-xenon headlights. The new full-LED light system is available as an option in the Ú.S. and for the first time offers the advanced lighting technology already proven in Mercedes models with bi-xenon headlamps. The headlamps, with their total of 71 LEDs, underscore the distinctive presence of the CLS63 AMG. Mercedes-Benz light specialists were able to combine LED technology with the optional Adaptive Highbeam Assist for the first time, leading to an all-new level of nighttime safety.

Contrary to the first vehicles with LED headlamps, there are now absolutely no restrictions to the functionality and performance of this light technology. The case for the new LED technology is strengthened further by factors such as - the average lifecycle of an LED being 10,000 hours, which is around five times more than a xenon lamp; and the color of LED driving lights being the closest to daylight. This means that LED light is a good match for the normal operating range of the human eye. Studies show that artificial light puts less strain on the eye the closer it is to the color of daylight. With a color temperature of 5,500 Kelvin, LED light is closer to daylight (6,500 K) than xenon light (4,200 K). Fitted as standard are the characteristic AMGspecific LED Daytime Running Lights, which feature two light bars integrated into the AMG front skirt.

Exterior design inspired by SLS AMG

From the front, the new CLS63 AMG is evocative of the SLS AMG - the radiator grille in particular, with the large Mercedes star and the wing-shaped louvers, draws its inspiration from the AMG super sports car. The CLS63 AMG is differentiated from the other CLS variants by a unique hood, wider fenders featuring the 'V8 BITÚRBO' logo and an exclusive AMG front skirt with a black-painted cross-brace. Distinguishing features on the rear end include the diffuser insert, the AMG spoiler on the trunk lid, the AMG sports exhaust with two chromed dual tailpipes, as well as the integrated fog lamps also familiar from the SLS AMG. The AMG styling harmonizes perfectly with the classic CLS silhouette, identifiable largely by its elegantly taut proportions, the 'dropping line' along the side and the sporty shoulder muscles spanning the rear axle.

Exclusive interior ambience

This philosophy is also carried into the interior. All AMG-specific styling and equipment features are a perfect match for the new design of the CLS interior. The wraparound effect in the cockpit, with the high line flowing in a single sweep from the driver door across the dashboard to the passenger door is flanked by generously proportioned and finely detailed trim - in the case of the AMG flagship model, this comes as standard in burl walnut wood veneer. Piano black lacquer and carbon-fiber trim elements are available as options. Material quality and workmanship is of the highest order and provide a highly exclusive ambience. The extensive range of standard equipment includes AMG sports seats in premium leather, a new AMG threespoke performance steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles and a flattened rim top and bottom and the AMG DRIVE ÚNIT with compact E-SELECT shift lever.

New driver assistance systems - more safety

More than a dozen driver assistance systems in the new CLS work together to avoid accidents and mitigate their consequences. New systems include Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist (both part of the Driver Assistance Package).

Active Blind Spot Assist warns the driver when, using close-range radar sensors, it detects the threat of a collision during a lane change maneuver. If the driver ignores the warning and comes dangerously close to the vehicle in the neighboring lane, Active Blind Spot Assist steps in. By initiating a brief braking impulse, controlled by ESP®, on the rear wheel on the other side of the vehicle, it causes a yawing motion that counteracts the collision course.

Networked with ESP® for the first time is Active Lane Keeping Assist. The system is activated when the driver involuntarily drives over continuous lane markings right or left. In such cases, Active Lane Keeping Assist applies the brakes on the opposing rear wheel in order to prevent the vehicle from crossing the line. At the same time, a display in the dashboard issues a warning to the driver. Should the vehicle cross broken lane markings, the system issues an electrically generated impulse via the steering wheel. This creates a short vibration, providing a subtle but highly effective cue to counter-steer immediately. This tactile warning via steering wheel vibration always occurs prior to any braking input.

Source - Mercedes-Benz

Recent Vehicle Additions

Performance and Specification Comparison

Related Automotive News

The New Mercedes-AMG E 53 4Matic+ Coupé And Cabriolet

The New Mercedes-AMG E 53 4Matic+ Coupé And Cabriolet

More brand identity, more sportiness, more individuality UK information E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet will go on sale in the UK in late June UK pricing and specification is still to be confirmed First deliveries due to arrive late su...
The New Mercedes- AMG 53-Series Models Of The CLS, E-Class Coupé And E-Class Cabriolet

The New Mercedes- AMG 53-Series Models Of The CLS, E-Class Coupé And E-Class Cabriolet

Perfect combination of performance and design Affalterbach. Mercedes-AMG is extending its product range with the addition of three new models and at the same time introducing a new model designation the 53-series models of the CLS, E-Class...
Mercedes-Benz at the 2016 NAIAS

Mercedes-Benz at the 2016 NAIAS

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class The most intelligent luxury sedan Mercedes-Benz is taking a big step into the future with the new E-Class. The tenth-generation of the E-Class sedan delivers stylish highlights with its distinct, emotional...

THE NEW E63 AMG S-MODEL – WITH 4MATIC

New benchmark for performance, dynamic purpose and efficiency October 15, 2013 The E63 AMG line for 2014 features a new S-Model with 577 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque as well as a newly developed performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC...
Mercedes-Benz USA Announces Pricing for 2014 SLS AMG Black Series and C63 AMG Edition 507

Mercedes-Benz USA Announces Pricing for 2014 SLS AMG Black Series and C63 AMG Edition 507

MONTVALE, N.J. – Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today announced pricing for the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series coupe and the 2014 C63 AMG Edition 507 sedan and coupe. Both models are part of an exclusive lineup of high-performance AMG models available at...