Mercedes-Benz reveals new CLS – This is one cool coupe

Mercedes-Benz has launched the new CLS, which will hit the European market in July.

The CLS received a large technological refresh for the 2020 model year, leaving design updates for 2021.

As a result the new CLS features a sportier look, and the base model has been upgraded to the Avantgarde trim.

This specification features a new front with stylised air intakes, two louvres on each side, and a front splitter in chrome.

The chrome elements extend to the rear diffuser, and two 19-inch alloy wheel designs can be selected at no additional cost.

On the AMG side of things, the CLS leans more towards a more sporty look.

This specification is treated to an AMG-specific front with an “A-wing” in black.

In addition, it gets a chrome front splitter, a new grille with a horizontal bar, a boot lid lip spoiler, and an AMG sill trim on the sides.

Wheel options for this version consist of 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloys that are available in tremolite grey or high-gloss black.

Regardless of the selected specification, however, all models get a new grille and all models can be bought in the new CLS-exclusive spectral blue metallic colour.

The design update for this year also extends into the cabin with two new trim finishes – open-pore brown and high-gloss grey wood.

The range of leather seat upholstery has been expanded, too, and now includes neva grey/magma grey and sienna brown/black.

The multifunction steering wheel was the next item on the update list – and is updated to the newest style and wrapped in Nappa leather.

Further customisation is then optional, with several assistance and dynamics packages available – as well help from the “designo department”.

The designo department comprises 250 Mercedes-Benz experts who are able to turn the CLS into a one-off model, if the customer desires.

Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+

As expected, the range-topping model comes from the AMG division.

Just like the other styles, this model includes the redesigned front end – but adds exclusive elements, such as a grille with vertical slats, a polished aluminium windscreen frame, and AMG-specific bumpers and wheels.

It also gets the most powerful engine, which is a 3.0-litre, in-line six cylinder, turbo-petrol motor that produces 320kW of power 520Nm of torque.

An integrated 48-volt system is then capable of delivering an additional 16kW of power and 250Nm of torque.

The vehicle sports an AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission and sends power to all four wheels via the 4MATIC+ system.

Acceleration from 0-100km/h comes in at 4.5 seconds, and a limited top speed of 250km/h is achievable.

The Limited Edition

As part of the CLS update cycle, Mercedes-Benz has created a Limited Edition trim – of which only 300 units will be made.

Customers can choose between white magno and selenite grey magno for the exterior, and standard specifications includes 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke wheels painted in black with a high-sheen rim flange, as well as the AMG Night Package – which will see several design elements finished in gloss black.

In addition, the AMG Dynamic Plus package projects the AMG logo onto the ground via LED lights, and the interior features a healthy dosage of Nappa leather and Alcantara, carbon fibre, and red contrast stitching.

Cabin features

The 2020 CLS update took care of technology and connectivity, and features remain unchanged in this new model.

All vehicles include the newest MBUX infotainment system that spans two 10.25-inch displays on the dash as standard.

Features include navigation and smartphone mirroring, and a large emphasis has been placed on artificial intelligence that learns driver preferences.

The energizing comfort feature is also included, and uses comfort systems inside the vehicle – such as massaging seats and ambient lighting – to offer the passengers a variety of well-being programmes and stress monitoring functions.

Safety is then taken care of by active brake assist, park distance control, ABS, airbags, a 360-degree camera, as well as active stop-and-go assist.