Mercedes-Benz has launched the second-generation of its svelte CLS four-door coupe to the Australian motoring press and after test driving two of the model variants, the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and CLS 63 AMG, there is plenty to like about this new Benz.
CarAdvice will be posting a complete road test review of the new Mercedes-Benz CLS this weekend, but for now here is a brief introduction to the new generation CLS.
First off we drove the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY; a thoroughly potent 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel which develops 195kW and 620Nm of torque, and will sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.2 seconds.
This is one of the quietest diesel engines you will ever experience; there is absolutely no way you will pick this car as a diesel from inside the cabin, even under heavy acceleration.
Not only does the new-generation car get substantially enhanced performance, but the reduction in fuel consumption is every bit as remarkable as the car itself. On a combined cycle the CLS 350 CDI BlueEEFICIENCY consumes just 6.2L/100km.
The diesel-powered CLS is also a hugely capable performer in the ride and handling department, with limpet-like grip through fast moving bends and a staggering level of composure for a car of these proportions.
Equally impressive is the hugely powerful CLS 63 AMG with it’s AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo powerplant that puts out 386kW and 700Nm of torque. That’s enough to propel this monster from 0-100km/h in a blistering 4.4 seconds.
If, however, you choose the optional AMG Performance Package, those numbers increase to 410kW and a staggering 800Nm. That will get you from 0-100km/h in a supercar-like 4.3 seconds.
But again, it’s the ridiculously minimal fuel consumption of this luxury rocket ship that inspires. Try 10L/100km and a CO2 output of just 233g/km and you’ll be smack on the money. That’s a truly remarkable achievement, which equates to a 31 percent reduction over the previous generation car.
Hit the AMG button and drill the right pedal, and the CLS 63 AMG morphs into a highly capable sports car with brutal in-gear acceleration that simply never lets up.
Read the complete review of the new Mercedes-Benz CLS at CarAdvice this weekend, but until then, here is the new pricing for the model range:
CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY (Petrol) – $159, 200
CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (Diesel) – $159, 200
CLS 500 BlueEFFICIENCY – $210, 800
CLS 63 AMG – $263, 500
