German automaker Mercedes-Benz has launched a new model of its iconic CLS, the four door coupé that first debuted in 2003 across the Middle East.

The new CLS sports a new scowl courtesy of LED high performance headlamps, and will be available as a V6 CLS 350, a V8 CLS 500, or a supercharged bi-turbo V8 CLS 63.

"Customers across the Middle East and the globe have rewarded us for our courage in launching a completely new vehicle concept onto the market," said Frank Bernthaler, director, sales and marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Middle East & Levant.

"And with its exciting design and refined sportiness, the new edition of the CLS also benefits from the fact that we are a whole generation ahead of the competition with our four-door coupé."

The GCC specification CLS 350 will come with an exterior sport package as standard, featuring chromed twin-pipe exhaust system with rectangular tailpipe rims, 5-spoke 18-inch light-alloy wheels with a 19-inch option, rear bumper with matt black painted cover, and sporty suspension set-up.

The CLS 500 with GCC specification comes standard with an AMG Sports package, including AMG front and rear aprons, single-wing radiator grill with a chrome/silver louver, and 18-inch 5-spoke light alloy wheels with mixed tyre sizes, optionally available as 19-inch.

The AMG Sports package includes 3-spoke sports multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather with a flattened lower section; matching black upholstery, seats, head restraints, door armrests and centre console with light, and roof liner with contrasting stitching.

In keeping with the sporty styling of the AMG Sports package, the package also features AMG lettering floor mats, brushed stainless-steel sports pedals, and additional ‘M’ transmission mode for manual gearshifts.

The CLS is the first passenger car in the world to offer LED high performance headlamps, which comes as standard in the GCC specification model, a statement said.

Two CLS versions will be available in the Middle East: CLS 500 BlueEfficiency with a V8 engine developing 300 kW (408 hp); and the supercharged bi-turbo CLS 63 AMG, with 5.5 litre V8 engine - developing 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Nm of torque, which can be optionally boosted to develop 410 kW (557 hp) and 800 Nm of torque via the performance package.

These models will be followed by a V6 CLS 350 BlueEfficiency producing 225 kW (306 hp) engine version in September.

GCC Specification CLS models also include as standard active parking assist with parking guidance, memory package, media interface, and the Comand APS multimedia system. – TradeArabia News Service