We’ve known it was coming for some time now, and photos showing it nearly undisguised have already surfaced. But today, the first press shots of the next-generation 2011 Mercedes CLS-Class have been leaked, showing the newest iteration of the four door coupe in all its unabashed glory.
As you’ll see (and as previously reported), numerous styling traits from the Concept Shooting Brake are present, including a prominent grille, aggressively styled front bumper, daytime LED running lights and a long bonnet. Under the hood, look for two petrol options: the CLS350 CGI and the CLS550 CGI. The first will feature the new direct-injection 3.5 liter V6 engine with an output of 306 PS (301 bhp / 225 kW) and 368 Nm (272 lb-ft) of torque, while the 550 CGI will feature a new 4.6 liter twin-turbocharged V8 that delivers 435 PS (429 bhp / 320 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. The CLS 550 CGI is expected to be offered with an all-wheel drive option as well. As for the CLS diesel options, look for a 350 CDI with a 3.0 liter V6 producing 185 kW (252 PS) as well as a 250 CDI with a four-cylinder diesel engine producing 150 kW (204 PS). And lastly, when the 2011 CLS63 AMG makes it debut, look for AMG’s new twin-turbocharged 5.5-Liter V8 with subsequent output of 544 bhp and 590 lb ft torque to make its way into the consummate model, with an optional Performance Pack boosting power to roughly 570 bhp and the 663 lb ft torque mark.
We’ll keep you posted as the model makes its official debut, which will likely be any day now. But until then, check out the first 2011 Mercedes CLS photos in the gallery below. And a special thanks to Markus Jordan for uncovering the photos.