The next Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is expected to drop into markets as a full showroom model by the end of 2018, and while the powertrain and variant hierarchy should mostly mirror Benz’s existing range, it may miss out on the full AMG treatment.
Before we continue, it’s true that in spite of some earlier postulations that Mercedes-Benz will not be bringing back the coupe-esque CLS Class after production ceased on the second-generation model last year, it’s now confirmed that it will be getting a third run and based on the all-new W213 E-Class.
Mercedes-AMG, their high performance division, typically adopts a two-tier system to offer fast versions of their normal saloons. For example, the C-Class’ that bear the AMG badge typically come in V6 or V8 flavours - C 43 and C63, respectively - with the latter obviously being the top of the pack.
The previous CLS did have an AMG version with a naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 under the bonnet. A new report by Autocar, though, suggest that won’t be repeated for this upcoming generation. There will be higher performance version, but it will end with a six-cylinder turbocharged unit. Right now, Mercedes-Benz is on the cusp of introducing a new inline-six engine to effectively replace the ageing somewhat V6 unit they currently use.
The reason for this is quite clear, though, as Mercedes-AMG have recently unveiled a four-door version of the AMG GT at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, another high performance four-door coupe similar in size to a CLS. Since Mercedes have phased out the larger atmospheric engines in their top cars favour of the 4.0-litre bit-turbo V8, a successor to the older CLS 63 AMG would tread too much into the AMG GT4’s territory.
Because of the next CLS (called the CLE) being based upon the current E-Class, the car is likely to carry over many of the W213’s tech features such as many of the autonomous driving functions but is likely to not be offered as a Shooting Brake (wagon) body style due to low buyer demand.
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