2018 CLS revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show

3rd generation for a car that began the four-door “coupe” phenomenon 15 years ago
Practicality enhanced given it is now a proper 5 seater
All new 6-cylinder petrol combined with an electric motor introduced

Mercedes-Benz has just revealed the 3rd generation of its four-door coupe, the CLS at the LA Auto Show. The CLS is looking to gain back some presence since having set a phenomenon with its jaw dropping debut of the four-door “coupe” and creating an all new segment.

Upon first impressions, it is clear the front presents a more aggressive stance keeping in-line with the company’s present design direction. Distinction can be noticed from its predecessor in terms of a slightly higher arch line while the frameless doors still giving the car a beautiful and slender silhouette giving it its “coupe” like perception.

Once inside, a strong similarity to the E-class is evident with elegance akin to the S-Class along with an optional dual-screen cockpit, which consists of two 12.3-inch high-resolution screens (one in the instrument cluster and one in the center stack). When merged together these form a very large widescreen display beneath a single continuous glass panel. A unique element in the CLS is the 64 optional colours to choose from for the ambient lighting along with ambient lighting in the air vents that briefly changes to red (warmer) or blue (colder) depending on how you adjust the climate control.

Engine variants for India has not been announced, however the CLS can be expected with an assortment of petrol, diesel and range topping AMG engines. Particularly new is their inline 6 cylinder petrol engine with “EQ boost” - essentially a 48V electric assistance that extends the coasting and start/stop functionality. This allows for V8 like performance with the efficiency of a V6.

The CLS gets driving assistance technology from the recently updated S-Class, including active steering assist, active lane change assist and active distance control. The standard car-to-x communication system acts as a receiver and transmitter of warning messages and driving conditions from other vehicles, allowing drivers to “see” hazards much farther ahead.