Here are the latest spy shots of the upcoming 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS, whose design is clearly previewed by the German firm’s Shooting Break Concept that will make its first public debut at this month’s 2010 Beijing Auto Show.
What we can expect is this: a possible debut at this September’s Paris motorshow, showing off the SLS “soft nose” with its much more appealing headlights. Down the sides there will probably be more crisp, current-E-Class lines through the rear quarters.
Under-hood we’ll likely see the Shooting Break concept’s 306-horse 3.5 liter V6, putting it square against anything mid-size entry-level luxury starting with 5 or ending with 6 (that’s BMW‘s 5-Series and Audi’s A6).
The range will also include a V6 turbo diesel and a V8 petrol, both with direct injection technology, while sources state that Mercedes is planning to introduce a hybrid version as well.
The flagship version of the series will be the CLS 63 AMG model packing the German firm’s newly developed direct injection 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8.
In standard form, the V8 biturbo engine churn out 544HP and 800Nm or 590 lb-ft of peak torque. However, in conjunction with the AMG Performance package, these figures are increased to 571HP and 900Nm or 663.8 lb-ft.
By Phil Alex
