Moving rapidly from concept form at this past fall's Frankfurt show to pre-production reality, the CLS range offers a decidedly coupe-like take on the premium luxury sedan market. Two variants were disclosed, starting with the CLS 350 touting a 3.5L/267-hp V-6 matched with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain combination is good for a claimed 0-60 mph time of seven seconds. Step up to the CLS 500 for a 5.0L/300-hp V-8 able to shave another second off the 0-60 mph sprint, plus an exhaustive roster of Mercedes luxury amenties. The CLS 500 is further distinguished by an air suspension, automatic climate control, and 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Both models feature Sensotronic Brake Control and the latest generation of the Electronic Stability Program, with a long list of options including Distronic proximity control, Linguatronic voice-operated control system, and the keyless access and drive authorization system Keyless-Go. The CLS range begins its worldwide roll out in fall 2004.
