First look: Benz jags a Vision

MERCEDES-BENZ has revealed its much anticipated CLS four-door coupe-sedan at the Frankfurt auto show, confirming the German brand has moved towards Jaguar when it comes to hunting down enthusiasts in the sports limousine market.

Dubbed the Vision CLS and based on the E-class platform, the four-door combines a stunning, sleek silhouette with ample proportions and what is said to be exceptional interior space.

Full specifications are still to be released, however the floor space between the front and rear seat is a sedan-like 829mm and the boot volume 470 litres.

Headroom? That could be an issue with the fast-falling roofline, although most emphasis is being placed on the car’s visual and driving appeal.

"We are one coupe generation ahead with the Vision CLS," said Mercedes-Benz boss Jurgen Hubbert.

"The idea of a four-door coupe opens up interesting possibilities and is especially intended to appeal to people for whom cars and driving are a passion." A production version in Europe is expected in late 2004, with Australia receiving its first allotments in 2005.

A V8 will doubtless be the natural engine selection for Aussie owners, but the show car features a 195kW six-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine paired with Benz’s 7G-TRONIC transmission, claimed to be the world’s first seven-speed automatic for passenger cars.

The combination can propel the CLS from rest to 100km/h in a claimed 6.4 seconds, while the average fuel consumption is 7.5L/100km. The engine also meets EU-4 emission limits.

Front, side and window airbags are fitted, along with seatbelt pretensioners for all seats, active headlamps, cornering lights and Sensotronic brake control.