While the four-door coupe segment has the likes of the Volkswagen CC and Audi A7 among its members today, we must never forget the Mercedes-Benz CLS that sliced open this niche back in 2004 to create what is one of the hottest automotive styling trends of recent.
Even BMW, that has arguably perfected the art of creating niche segments in niche sectors, has finally jumped on the bandwagon by green-lighting the Gran Coupe concept for production.
It’s been a good six years but even now, the original CLS still looks like it hasn’t aged a day and just rolled off the design sheets and onto the production floor. That’s precisely the reason it created such a storm when it was launched and will probably continue to define the four-door coupe segment in its second iteration.
Now the 2012 CLS has just had some shots for its portfolio and is teasing the world before it’s live unveiling at the Paris Motor Show.
Under the glare of studio lights and in high-def, the 2012 CLS is a beauty. Although the external lines have been firmed-up, the new CLS essentially retains the classic shape that made it a hit when it first rolled out.
The best feature on the outside would be the striking new headlight design that incorporates 71 LED bulbs that make up the main headlamps, running lamps, turn signal and side lamps. It might sound like overkill but it sure would be an intimidating sight in the rearview mirror.
On the inside, the steering wheel has been updated but still maintains the three-spoke design from the first model. The gear lever has been moved and is now column-mounted like the top-end S-Class. Luxury still screams on the interior but there’s a modern feel to it that whispers elegance and comfort.
For now all we get are the shots but expect details to continuously roll out as the build-up to Paris hits the afterburners. The base model would most likely get the direct-injected 3.5-liter V6 and if you need more go with your show than the 4.6-liter V8 will answer you call. Of course, for those that eat insanity for breakfast and lunch on lunacy, an AMG version with rude amounts of power will follow.
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Source: Autoblog
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