First of all, we had to look up the word "designo." It peppers the MB press release in such a way that it seems we'd missed something. Turns out Benz has an in-house line of designer trim levels which allow fashionistas to think they've bought something special. This CLS follows that tradition perfectly. It's outfitted with "exclusive" "avant-garde" matte paint, 18" AMG wheels, swiveling HID headlights, sporty aluminum and rubber pedals (to go with the automatic transmission), somehow superior seat leather and an Alcantara headliner which all the kids seem to like these days. Oh, we forgot, it has a "Grand Edition" badge on the fender.

The press release follows:

Mercedes-Benz CLS Grand Edition: Exclusive style, concentrated elegance and exciting lines

Stuttgart – The new CLS Grand Edition special-edition model sees Mercedes-Benz introducing a new highlight to the segment for four-door premium coupés. A matt designo paint finish lends spectacular definition to the lines of the coupé and makes the CLS Grand Edition really catch the eye. This exclusive style is echoed in the interior with high-grade designo leather and high-quality equipment details. All of which makes the multi-design-award-winning Mercedes-Benz Coupé unmistakable.

Coupés are truly special cars. Not least the Mercedes Coupés, which have always epitomised automotive elegance, exclusivity and refinement at the very highest level. With the CLS, Mercedes-Benz paved the way for four-door coupés. The trend-setting model from Stuttgartinspires coupé enthusiasts with its exciting and muscular styling.

Even more pronounced lines through new paint

The new Mercedes-Benz CLSGrand Edition catches the eye straight away. A unique "designo magno platinum" matt paint finish brings the lines and contours of the premium Coupé fully to the fore and emphasises its multi-award-winning design. As well as being an eye-catching feature, the matt paint finish is highly scratch- and dirt-resistant. In keeping with the avant-garde paintwork, the radiator grille louvres are also painted in "designo magno platinum".

The Grand Edition customers can select from a choice of metallic paint finishes: obsidian black, iridium silver, carneol red or flint grey.

The additional exterior equipment for the CLSGrand Edition includes:

* Bi-xenon headlamps with dark headlamp casings, active light function and cornering light function in the fog lamps, headlamp cleaning system, and dynamic headlamp range adjustment

* Exclusive, high-sheen AMG18-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels with pockets painted in titanium grey, shod with 245/40 R 18 (front) and 275/35 R 18 (rear) tyres

* A "Grand Edition" insignia on the front wings

* designo interior displaying sporty, elegant touches

The no-nonsense elegance continues inside the car. Here a perfectly matched designo interior and a roof lining in anthracite Alcantara, together with the standard-fit tilting/sliding glass roof, define the sporty, elegant style. Special touches are provided by the designo leather upholstery in "marron" – with the option of substituting this shade for sand, black, mystic red, porcelain or chablis.

The trim elements in high-quality laurel wood can be ordered with either a matt or a high-gloss finish. The same material is used for the selector lever and the wood/leather steering wheel. Sport pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs underline the sporting credentials of the CLSGrand Edition.

The extensive range of equipment includes the sophisticated COMAND APSMultimedia control and display system, comfort telephony, PARKTRONIC and “Grand Edition” velour floor mats.

Pioneering engine technology in the CLS 350 CGI

There are four engine variants available for the CLSGrand Edition, including the V6 unit for the entry-level CLS280 model and, perhaps most impressively of all, the CGIdirect-injection power plant for the CLS350 CGImodel, offering high output and low fuel consumption. This V6 engine with piezoelectric direct injection and spray-guided combustion develops 215 kW/292 hp and consumes just 9.1 litres of premium unleaded petrol per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined).

The Mercedes-Benz CLSGrand Edition can be ordered from January 2, 2009. Prices start at 67,294.50 Euros incl. VAT (CLS280 Grand Edition). The deliveries to customers start in March 2009.

Copyright © 2008, Daimler AG

[Sources: Mercedes Benz, EMercedesBenz]

That price is causing controversy. Not for how cheap it is, but how expensive. The CC starts at just $26,790 when equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo four and a six-speed manual. But the Passat, which the CC is based on, comes in at just $23,990. So to some, the CC is asking you to pay more for less; it only has four seats to the Passat’s five.

The thing about the CC is that it doesn’t deserve to be compared to the Passat, but instead to vehicles that cost much much more. Why? It offers a driving experience that’s at least equivalent to most entry- to mid-size luxury cars (there’s those damn categories again), classier looks, a larger interior, greater economy and doesn’t suffer from the image problems of it’s snobbier rivals.

The European luxury driving experience has come to be defined by two characteristics: sporting ability combined with cosseting quality. The driver of a BMW, Audi or Mercedes expects to be able to drive quickly everywhere from the highway to a winding mountain road, but doesn’t want to pay a comfort penalty for that ability. They want supportive seats, isolation from external noise and a comfortable ride. Recently, much of the involvement that always came hand-in-hand with speed has been sacrificed in the drive to make cars ever more capable and safer. The CC is no different. It’s as competent as an Audi A4, which is to say more fun than any Mercedes, but a little less involving than a BMW. One area where it distinguishes itself is in ride quality, which manages near total isolation without compromising handling ability.

The interior, too, leaves you thinking more high-end than entry-level. The fit and finish is top notch. Every button and lever is well-damped. Attractive accent lighting makes things look nice at night. Everything is as it seems; the chrome is actual chromed metal, the brushed aluminum actual aluminum and not a cheap plastic imitation. Wood is, thankfully, totally absent. The two-tone black and beige seen here is the most successful interior color scheme, accentuating both the attractive shape of the dash and the seats which, in the rear, are the CC’s defining characteristic. There are two supportive buckets separated by a console. That arrangement means that sitting in back is as appealing as sitting up front, but it also means the car sacrifices the ability to carry five people. The sloping roof, a characteristic of these four-door coupes, does impinge a bit on headroom, but I’m 6’2” and could sit back there all day without an issue.

So we’ve covered what the CC does as well as its more expensive alternatives; now let’s talk about what it does better. For one, when equipped with that base engine (there’s also a 3.6-liter V6 with 280 HP) it’s capable of returning 31 MPG on the highway while still managing the 0-to-60 sprint in 6.7 seconds. That back seat? Not only does it have more space than the A4 (or 3-series or C-class) that it drives like — I could cross my legs — but it has more headroom than a CLS, in which the ceiling flattens my beautiful hair.

Then there’s the looks. While not as striking as the Audi A4 or A5, the CC is a hell of a lot less awkward than the CLS or any current BMW. It’s understated — there’s not even a CC badge —and handsome, but utterly unassuming. People don’t know what to make of it. One on hand, there’s the VW badge, which means it’s a cheap car, but on the other its shape is well proportioned and evokes quality. It looks expensive.

Probably the best thing about the CC isn’t the way that it drives or how nice the interior is, but its price. At $26,970 you get a car equipped with everything necessary to take on rivals costing twice as much, but also the economy of cars costing a little less. We’re not sure what category it fits in other than this one: cars that we can wholeheartedly recommend buying.

Understated but masterly neatly sums up the result of the restyling programme for the CLS. At the front, it is the modified radiator grille that stands out, with two louvres now instead of the previous four. The diamond-shaped, three-dimensional grilles painted in atlas grey that cover the air intakes project an even greater air of self-assurance as well as adding further emphasis to the vehicle's width. The exterior mirrors have also been given a new look. The LED side indicator lamps that are built into them are arranged in the form of an arrow to produce a most eye-catching effect, especially in the dark. The mirror surface has furthermore been enlarged by 32 per cent to afford a clearer view of the traffic behind and thereby boost active safety.

The side view is dominated by new, attractively styled light-alloy wheels, measuring either 17 inches (CLS 280, CLS 320 CDI and CLS 350 CGI) or 18 inches (CLS 500) in diameter. When viewed from the rear, the new-generation CLS makes its mark with a new rear apron, new tail lights, as well as modified tailpipes. The centre section of the rear bumper now drops down further, while the additional light-catching contour running along it adds to the impression of breadth. This is further emphasised by the exhaust tailpipes, which are trapezoidal in shape, and not oval as before. LED technology is now deployed for the tail lights: the brake lamps, tail lamps and indicator lamps all make use of the extra-fast-reacting light-emitting diodes. Just like the side indicators in the exterior mirrors, the rear indicators look like arrows when they light up, which is particularly striking in the dark. The same is true of the optical fibres at the side, which are always activated whenever the low-beam headlamps are switched on.
A new deactivation function for the low-beam headlamps when the ignition is switched off helps to optimise energy management.
The new bodywork details harmonise perfectly with the multi-award-winning design of the CLS and make the four-door Coupé always look as if it is about to dash off. Almost four years on from its world premiere, the electrifying, muscular lines of the trendsetter are as unique and as unmistakable as ever.

New inside: three-spoke steering wheel and new telematics generation
Great attention to detail was paid while updating the interior too: modifications include a restyled leather steering wheel in a three-spoke design with multifunction buttons, as well as a new-look instrument cluster, whose white dials now contrast distinctly with the chased surface of the backplate. The previous matt laurel colour scheme has been replaced with new chestnut wood trim elements.

The CLS features the new NTG 2.5 telematics generation, whose high-performance componentry combines straightforward operation and logical menu navigation with flawless in-vehicle entertainment. Features include speed-sensitive volume control, a keypad for entering telephone numbers and radio frequencies, an MP3-compatible CD and DVD player, as well as a Bluetooth interface which can establish a wireless connection between a mobile phone and the vehicle's hands-free system.

The Audio 20, Audio 20 CD with CD changer, Audio 50 and Audio 50 APS with DVD changer and LINGUATRONIC voice control system have now been upgraded to a 5-inch colour screen. The COMAND APS comes with a high-resolution 6.5-inch colour display, LINGUATRONIC for audio, navigation and telephone calls, a music register for storing audio files, plus an SD memory card slot.

CLS 280: new entry-level engine variant with 170 kW/231 hp
The CLS 280 is equipped with a new entry-level engine, a sophisticated V6 powerplant with a displacement of 2996 cc developing a peak output of 170 kW/231 hp and a maximum torque of 300 Newton metres. This propels the CLS 280 from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and gives it a top speed of 245 km/h. Combined fuel consumption on the NEDC driving cycle is 9.8 - 10.0 litres per 100 kilometres. The second V6 petrol model in the range is the CLS 350 CGI. Its advanced six-cylinder engine featuring piezoelectric direct injection and spray-guided combustion generates 215 kW/292 hp and returns impressively low fuel consumption figures of 9.1 to 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined). Under the bonnet of the CLS 500 is a V8 drive unit with a displacement of 5.5 litres and a maximum output of 285 kW/388 hp. What makes the CLS 320 CDI with its 165-kW/224-hp V6 diesel engine especially thrilling is the formidable torque of 540 Newton metres on the one hand and, on the other, low fuel consumption of just 7.6 - 8.1 litres of diesel for every 100 km (NEDC combined).
All CLS models are equipped with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission as standard. In the manual shift mode "M", the driver is able to shift through the gears using shift paddles on the steering wheel if desired. This shortens the 0-100 km/h acceleration time by 0.2 seconds.
All CLS models can be embellished by the addition of the AMG bodystyling package: this comprises a prominent front apron with large air intakes, a beefy rear apron featuring a black insert, as well as side skirts. There is also the option of new AMG 19-inch light-alloy wheels in a high-sheen finish with either 255/35 or 285/30 tyres.
Interested customers can place their orders for the new CLS now. The gross purchase prices for the new CLS are as follows:
• CLS 280: Euro 55,692.00
• CLS 320 CDI: Euro 59,321.50
• CLS 350 CGI: Euro 61,404.00
• CLS 500: Euro 75,053.30
• CLS 63 AMG: Euro 106,624.00

Released at the 2006 LA Auto Show, the Acura Advanced Sedan Concept seems like it's telegraphing the pending power shield pretty well. We panned it pretty well when the Postfather ran the concept, and as would be expected we panned it again when it showed up this year. Hopefully it feels more at home when Acura drops the styling element on the new CLS.

The new-generation CLS: Fine-tuning for the design trendsetter Mercedes-Benz is making the CLS even more irresistible. This one-of-a-kind four-door coupé - the pioneer of a whole new automotive segment - has now been fine-tuned to give it added appeal. The new entry-level model version, the CLS 280 with its sophisticated V6 power unit, develops 170 kW/231 hp. Meanwhile, the flagship model in the range - the CLS 63 AMG with its 378 kW/514 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine - now comes with 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels plus a new AMG sports exhaust system.

Understated but masterly neatly sums up the result of the restyling programme for the CLS. At the front, it is the modified radiator grille that stands out, with two louvres now instead of the previous four. The diamond-shaped, three-dimensional grilles painted in atlas grey that cover the air intakes project an even greater air of self-assurance as well as adding further emphasis to the vehicle's width. The exterior mirrors have also been given a new look. The LED side indicator lamps that are built into them are arranged in the form of an arrow to produce a most eye-catching effect, especially in the dark. The mirror surface has furthermore been enlarged by 32 per cent to afford a clearer view of the traffic behind and thereby boost active safety.

The side view is dominated by new, attractively styled light-alloy wheels, measuring either 17 inches (CLS 280, CLS 320 CDI and CLS 350 CGI) or 18 inches (CLS 500) in diameter. When viewed from the rear, the new-generation CLS makes its mark with a new rear apron, new tail lights, as well as modified tailpipes. The centre section of the rear bumper now drops down further, while the additional light-catching contour running along it adds to the impression of breadth. This is further emphasised by the exhaust tailpipes, which are trapezoidal in shape, and not oval as before. LED technology is now deployed for the tail lights: the brake lamps, tail lamps and indicator lamps all make use of the extra-fast-reacting light-emitting diodes. Just like the side indicators in the exterior mirrors, the rear indicators look like arrows when they light up, which is particularly striking in the dark. The same is true of the optical fibres at the side, which are always activated whenever the low-beam headlamps are switched on.
A new deactivation function for the low-beam headlamps when the ignition is switched off helps to optimise energy management.
The new bodywork details harmonise perfectly with the multi-award-winning design of the CLS and make the four-door Coupé always look as if it is about to dash off. Almost four years on from its world premiere, the electrifying, muscular lines of the trendsetter are as unique and as unmistakable as ever.

New inside: three-spoke steering wheel and new telematics generation
Great attention to detail was paid while updating the interior too: modifications include a restyled leather steering wheel in a three-spoke design with multifunction buttons, as well as a new-look instrument cluster, whose white dials now contrast distinctly with the chased surface of the backplate. The previous matt laurel colour scheme has been replaced with new chestnut wood trim elements.

The CLS features the new NTG 2.5 telematics generation, whose high-performance componentry combines straightforward operation and logical menu navigation with flawless in-vehicle entertainment. Features include speed-sensitive volume control, a keypad for entering telephone numbers and radio frequencies, an MP3-compatible CD and DVD player, as well as a Bluetooth interface which can establish a wireless connection between a mobile phone and the vehicle's hands-free system.

The Audio 20, Audio 20 CD with CD changer, Audio 50 and Audio 50 APS with DVD changer and LINGUATRONIC voice control system have now been upgraded to a 5-inch colour screen. The COMAND APS comes with a high-resolution 6.5-inch colour display, LINGUATRONIC for audio, navigation and telephone calls, a music register for storing audio files, plus an SD memory card slot.

CLS 280: new entry-level engine variant with 170 kW/231 hp
The CLS 280 is equipped with a new entry-level engine, a sophisticated V6 powerplant with a displacement of 2996 cc developing a peak output of 170 kW/231 hp and a maximum torque of 300 Newton metres. This propels the CLS 280 from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and gives it a top speed of 245 km/h. Combined fuel consumption on the NEDC driving cycle is 9.8 - 10.0 litres per 100 kilometres. The second V6 petrol model in the range is the CLS 350 CGI. Its advanced six-cylinder engine featuring piezoelectric direct injection and spray-guided combustion generates 215 kW/292 hp and returns impressively low fuel consumption figures of 9.1 to 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined). Under the bonnet of the CLS 500 is a V8 drive unit with a displacement of 5.5 litres and a maximum output of 285 kW/388 hp. What makes the CLS 320 CDI with its 165 kW/224 hp V6 diesel engine especially thrilling is the formidable torque of 540 Newton metres on the one hand and, on the other, low fuel consumption of just 7.6 - 8.1 litres of diesel for every 100 km (NEDC combined).
All CLS models come fitted with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission as standard. In manual shift mode "M", the driver is able to shift through the gears using shift paddles on the steering wheel if desired. This shortens the 0-100 km/h acceleration time by 0.2 seconds.
CLS 63 AMG flagship model with AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC
The flagship model in the CLS range, the CLS 63 AMG, is powered by the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with 378 kW/514 hp and 630 Newton metres of torque. The high-revving, naturally aspirated engine now makes its presence known in an even more distinctive fashion: the AMG sports exhaust system's redesigned rear silencers deliver an even more captivating soundtrack through the two sets of oval-shaped, chromed twin tailpipes. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission now incorporates a function which blips the throttle automatically during downshifts. This does more than just intensify the emotive driving experience - the virtually load-free downshift procedure also leads to a reduction in load-alteration effects, which is of particular benefit when braking ahead of corners on the race track. The CLS 63 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, while its top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h.
Also new is the black-painted radiator grille with two louvres instead of the previous three, which blends in perfectly with the AMG bodystyling. The AMG light-alloy wheels, with their new triple-spoke design and a titanium grey, high-sheen paint finish, now measure 19 inches in size instead of 18 as before, and are shod with tyres measuring 255/35 R 19 at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear. Inside, the CLS 63 AMG boasts a new AMG sports steering wheel with a three-spoke design. The grip areas are specially contoured and trimmed in perforated leather. Gear selection can be performed manually by means of two aluminium AMG shift paddles.

Attractive optional extras from AMG
There is an exclusive choice of new optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio for the CLS 63 AMG: take the AMG performance steering wheel, for instance, with a smaller diameter, a rim that is flattened at the bottom and silver-coloured aluminium shift paddles. Or the titanium-grey painted AMG 19-inch light-alloy wheels with a twin-spoke design and a polished finish, which are manufactured using first-rate forging technology.
All CLS models can be embellished by the addition of the AMG bodystyling package: this comprises a prominent front apron with large air intakes, a beefy rear apron featuring a black insert, as well as side skirts. There is also the option of new AMG 19-inch light-alloy wheels in a high-sheen finish with either 255/35 or 285/30 tyres.
Interested customers can place their orders for the new CLS now, with market launch commencing in March 2008. The gross purchase prices for the new CLS are as follows:
• CLS 280: Euro 55,692.00
• CLS 320 CDI: Euro 59,321.50
• CLS 350 CGI: Euro 61,404.00
• CLS 500: Euro 75,053.30
• CLS 63 AMG: Euro 106,624.00

[via Motor Authority]

Press Release:

ART GTR 374

Mercedes Benz CLS-class models are indeed one of the most interesting vehicle successes. This rather elegant glider can be turned into a sportier street burner. A.R.T. makes this possible through an exceedingly successful aerodynamic kit combined with DTM sport resemblance. With help of a compressor kit, A.R.T. transforms the CLS 350 to GTR 374 with distinctively more power. Inside, occupants wallow in luxury and through the power enhancement, allow themselves to be swept away.
Under pressure

A technical highlight is found under the hood. The 3,5 litre V6 from the CLS350 receives forced air breath from A.R.T. with aide of a AK35 supercharger system. It displays a charge-air cooling system including heat exchanger and is equipped with a special ribbed poly V-belt. Naturally, A.R.T. pays particular attention to engine electronics and increases the Vmax limitations. With its 374 HP, the GTR374 can race significantly quicker than the standard version. The increase of torque to 510 Nm makes vehicle passing just a finger exercise. The power enhancement is accentuated with a rumbling sound creating goose-bumps caused by four double-walled tailpipes (100mm) from the A.R.T. anti-corrosion stainless steel sport exhaust system along with metal catalysts.
Sporty look with DTM racing touch

The CLS 350 is converted by A.R.T. to a significantly sportier GTR374 vehicle without altering any of it's characteristic elegance. The Nuremberg-based specialists with pure accomplish this with an aerodynamic kit containing pure racing genes. It comprised of a series of widening measures providing the GRT374 and even sturdier look and a light DTM racing touch. It contains special customized, broadened fenders inclusive warm air outlet vents front, widened side skirts, widened car doors plus broadened rear side panels with integrated air inlets located in front the rear wheels. Through A.R.T. lift-reducing front spoiler bumper with distinctive double-lip edge and accessory double-headlight-set (incl. bend lighting), plus new slated Lamella grille without MB-star, the GTR374 leaves a striking impression of a bully appearance. A.R.T. matches the rear with this look by the addition of a rear bumper skirt with diffuser reminiscent of motor sports vehicle with suited molded recess for an A.R.T. 4-pipe sports exhaust system. Likewise know-how from sports racing is represented with the rear lip spoiler jutting off the trunk.
Optimal agility and individual wheels

Since the CLS is not exactly a lightweight, to provide more optimal agility A.R.T. widens the tracks in front to 70 mm and even more in back to 80 mm. Additionally, A.R.T. scheduled a vehicle customization and built in a sport suspension lowering the center of gravity to 40 mm.

A.R.T. completed the external tuning with ARTstar2 - light alloy rims. A.R.T. built-in these three-part wheels front in size 9Jx20", and size 10Jx20" in back. The six star forming spokes provide sufficient intake air flow to the brakes system. A.R.T. succeeds with the finish "NANO black satin matt", in providing a striking contrast to the bolts; a further visual highlight. With the wide tires, 255/30R20 front and 305/25R20 rear, the large torque of the V6 motor can be brought to asphalt problem-free.
A.R.T. highlights

An even more individualized look is achieved by A.R.T. with headlights "Bi-XENON-NERO" with active bend lighting. Above and beyond this A.R.T. replaced all vehicle lettering and emblems through their own stroke of hand leaving only the vehicle's basic form still recognisable. As final step A.R.T. offers a special finishing with racing sport stripes design.

An absolute show stopper, yet very practical effect is scored by A.R.T. with STEPLIGHTS that mark opened vehicle doors outlining sideskirt contours on their top sides allowing getting into the vehicle easier under poor visability conditions. The STEPLIGHTS are made of light blue electroluminescent light stripes in highly polished stainless steel. In the vehicle entry area are additional light blue illuminated entry ledges with A.R.T.-logo of highly polished and brushed stainless steel; an additional highlight.
Ambience of pure luxury

For the interior, A.R.T. combined ambience of pure luxury to motor sports ingredients. With the ergonomic shaped steering wheel made of suede, the GTR 374 driver has everything perfectly under control. Optionally, one may steer with the A.R.T. tipfunction / shift buttons steering wheel in carbon look, available for 7-speed automatic transmission versions: 7G-Tronic. The A.R.T. carbon fiber features (complete dashboard, ashtray mask, mask above ashtray, gear selection lever, floor shift, louver blinds for rear storage space), keep drivers in the spirit of motor sports racing. The A.R.T. leather /alcantara ultra-seude furnishings with contrast stitching for middle console, head rests, rear central console, gear shift knob with shift cover, and arm rests, and the alcantara ultra-suede furnishings of the roof liner and door liner, generate an A.R.T. comfortable atmosphere. With a variety of accessories such as stainless steel entry ledges for the front doors with illuminated A.R.T.-logo (see above), or speedometer in white underlay with a scale up to 360 km/h, A.R.T. continues to set high noble standards.

The A.R.T. team certainly doesn't feel limited to being committed to just above described features program. For those preferring an individualized CLS appearance, the A.R.T. team implements requests with complete competence as well.

Revised CLS Spotted [GermanCarScene]

Related:
Nissan Skyline, Mercedes CLS: Separated At Birth? [internal]

The tuning gang at Germany's ART appear ready to redeem themselves from sins of flamboyance against Mercedes. The GTR 374 is a far more down-to-business, muscle-car-inspired CLS kit than the company's other baller-docious designs. Supporting a more elegant, though no less testosterone-warped, styling program, the GTR 374 features a supercharger-intercooler system with heat exchanger, tweaked computer (with top-speed delimiter) and stainless-steel sport exhaust, all producing 368 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque — atop a lowered suspension. It's no monster of rock, but at least it won't make the neighbors' kids hide under the bed. – Mike Spinelli

Related:
Tuner Orbiter: ART's Mercedes CLS GTR [internal]

German inspiration for the new Skyline ? [Nihon Car]

Related:
Electronic! GT-R Video [internal]

The Brabus rocketeers say they've broken the speed record for street-legal sedans, having been certified by Germany's technical standards agency, T V, for hitting over 227 mph on the Nardo test track in southern Italy. The ber tuner's ber sedan, the Rocket — based on a Mercedes-Benz CLS — is powered by a bored-out and twin turbo'd V12 displacing 6.3 liters and producing 730 hp and an electronically limited 811 lb-ft of torque (it also meets EURO IV emissions). We'd imagine the record will spark an arms race among German tuning shops who'd rather not let the maniacal laughter from the Bottrop boys go unchallenged. – Mike Spinelli

Related:
Command Presence: A Polizei-tuned Brabus Rocket; Tuning the Crap Out of a Mercedes CLS: The Brabus Rocket [internal]

One of the Jalops just happened to be visiting Ai Design at its home in Tuckahoe, NY on a day this matte-finish Mercedes CLS 55 AMG sat on a garage lift casting its evil gaze upon the workshop. Naturally, the most striking feature of the car — customized for DC Shoes co-founder Ken Block — is a flawlessly applied flat black paint job (whose price tag was pegged unofficially at around $30,000). Using a Brabus K8 performance kit and sport exhausts, the team boosted horsepower to 575 from 469 stock. They also tricked it out with a Brabus suspension module, Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires over Radenergie R10 20" wheels and Brembo eight-piston racing brake calipers and 15" discs in front, and four-pot calipers and 13.6" discs in the rear. It's really super hot in person, though we'd imagine fingerprints could become troublesome. Hey, there's always cashmere gloves. [Gallery] – Mike Spinelli

[Hat tip to German Car Scene]

Related:
SEMA Show: Matte Is This Year's Black [internal]

The guys at BenzInsider have solved the mystery of the Mercedes CLS wagon, a shot of which recently launched a thousand speculations. Turns out its called the TLS MK1, and it's a fabrication of Germany's Pogea Racing, a Laupheim-based tuner of Audi and Mercedes-Benz product. They appear to have grafted the front portion of a CLS onto an E55 AMG T-Modell (station wagon). Why? Why the hell not? Click through for more pics.

CLS Wagon is REAL ! [Benz Insider]

Related:
Was Ist Dis? Mercedes CLS Wagon? [internal]

It sure as hell looks like one. Could Dr. Z's teutonic minions really be planning a CLS Country Squire? And what will the motoring press call it, a coupewagen? (Then again, a wagon is just a sawsall away from an El Camino). The questions are multitude.

Mercedes CLS: and some thought it was ugly!! [AutoSpies]

Related:
More on the Mercedes CLS [internal]

Reportedly, this particular Brabus-tuned CLS was the #1 killer of members of order lepidoptera in the American Southwest on July 27th, 2006. Claus Ettenberger may be adept at avoiding American police agencies, but when Judgement Day comes, he's gonna have to answer to the butterflies.

More on the Bullrun [Internal]

The boys at Brabus have finally let their maniacal laughter get the better of them. The tuning shop has created a Mercedes CLS — the Brabus Rocket — fitted with a twin-turbo V12 configuration that, according to the company, will propel it to 225.18492005328 mph, which (but for everything to the right of the decimal), is really freaking fast for a sedan. The price for such madness is in the neighborhood of $438,000, meaning Brabus spared no tweak to make the Rocket the most extreme sedan on the 'bahn. The engine is a 730 hp monster that needs a freaking torque limiter to keep it from turning itself into molten lava (811 ft.-lbs max). Now that's extreme.

Related:
More on Brabus-tuned vehicles [internal]

Some would say the new Mercedes CLS tuner from ART looks like it rolled up nine weeks after the Space Shuttle Discovery broke from its leash and mounted a 1973 Ford Pinto. Others — likely Yakuza members — would say... Hell they wouldn't say anything. They'd just make you disappear into the Sea of Japan for such a slight against white-on-white, garishly appointed Mercs. That's why we're staying mute on this one.

ART Debuts New Tuning Package For Mercedes CLS [eMercedesBenz]

Related:
Driving a Mighty Mercedes: GCF on the Carlsson CK55 [internal]

Engine geeks, hold on to your pocket protectors. Mercedes announced a new CLS model fitted with a stratified-charge, direct-injection V6 that produces 292 hp and 269 lbs.-ft of torque, while getting a combined US-converted mileage figure of around 25 mpg. Pretty sneaky, Hans.

More at eMercedesBenz

Related:
ASMA Design s Mercedes CLS Shark [internal]

AMG's naturally aspirated (gezundheit) 6.3-liter V8 — its first powerplant not to be derived from an existing Mercedes mill — is debuting in a couple more models at the Geneva show later this month. The company will unveil its CLS 63 and CLK 63 at the show, both of which will get the SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC transmission, 155mph limited top speed and a kiss on the cheek by the world's motoring press. Naturally.

CLS63 And CLK63 Make World Debut in Geneva [eMercedesBenz]

Related:
Skating Mercedes: AMG Launches 6.3-Liter V8 in the US [internal]

What's it like to rock a Carlsson-tuned Mercedes CLS 55 AMG on the unrestricted autobahn, legally nudging aside police bikes at (140mph) with a polite flick of the blinker? Nick Hall, writing for German Car Fans has some idea:

This car is just stretching its legs at the old car s artificially induced 155mph top end and will now scorch all the way to 200mph without trouble, barging police out the way at every opportunity. The figures belong to a top end Ferrari or Lamborghini, which is a truly monumental achievement for a 1920kg car with sofas instead of seats and the quiet, regal air of a gentleman s club.

GCF Test Drive: Carlsson CK55 [German Car Fans]

Related:
New Mercedes S-Class Tuner from Carlsson to Debut at Essen [internal]

Leftlane News picked up on a sparkly bit of conjecture offered by AutoSpies, that is, Mercedes will bring a lower-priced CLS to the US market — the CLS350 — in 2007. LFN estimates the less-pricey version of the four-door "coupe," sporting Merc's 3.5-liter V6 (272bhp in the UK), will cost in the $50,000 range. We're skeptical that the company would risk cannibalizing its E-Class for a cheap(er) thriller like the CLS. Then again, if Merc's market-research twiddlers have somehow identified two distinct target markets for the models, the plan could be viable.

Mercedes to offer CLS350 in North America? [Leftlane News]

Related:
Mercedes Ditching Brake-by-Wire on E-Class, CLS [internal]

The popular kids just are just smitten with the showing of Mercedes-Benz this year. First Popular Science picked the 2006 S-Class as the Grand Award winner among its Best of the New for 2006. Now, Popular Mechanics has named the Merc CLS 500/55 winner in the design category of its Best New Cars and Trucks of 2006. Considering all the trouble some Mercedes cars have had with its electrical systems this past year, we doubt Popular Electronics will chime in on a hat-trick anytime soon.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 500/55 [Popular Mechanics]

Related:
Popular Science Names Mercedes S-Class Best of the New [internal]

ASMA Design, a Mercedes tuning and aftermarket cosmetics shop recently carpetbombed the press with photos of its new CLS Shark, which it introduced in Frankfurt last month. The Shark is ASMA's showcase car promoting its CLS upgrade program, which includes commensurate chrome jewelry, a body kit, suspension mods, custom exhaust kit and (stop snickering) intake "gills" carved into the CLS's flanks. Overkill or killing machine? We dare not make the call.

More pics at eMercedesBenz

Related:
Frankfurt Premiere: Brabus Rocket [internal]

Once upon a time in the 70's, Mercedes Benz made the world's fastest four-door: the 300SEL 6.3. Fast forward to Frankfurt; Brabus' power-crazed spannermeisters have finally recaptured the crown for the three-pointed star with a heavily-modded Mercedes CLS. The uber-tuner claims their inventively-named "Brabus Rocket" tops-out at 217mph (electronically limited due to tire limitations, natuerlich). Nostalgia lovers will be delighted to hear that a 6.3-liter twin-turbo V12 provides propulsion, stumping-up a scarcely credible 730hp @ 5100 rpm. Serving platter-sized ceramic brakes and an optional coil-over suspension should help owners' maintain their lifestyle, while the usual Brabus "pimp my Benz" extras will proclaim your max speed dominance. Over to you Bentley...

Related:
Brabus-Tuned E V12 Biturbo Sets Record as Fastest Street-Legal Sedan [internal]

Can we just say that we're gonna miss J rgen Schrempp? He's got one of the best names in the business, he's fun to pick on, and we love running that one middle-finger photochop of him every so often. Here's one from the house that J rgen devalued, uplifted by those horsepower-happy wackos at Kleeman you know, the people who brought you the Viper/Bentley/Aston/whatever else-stomping C-Class? 5.0L of breathed-on Stuttgarty goodness and a blower conspire to spin out 595hp at 5800 RPM. Just watch your head getting out of the rear doors.

Related:
Mercedes Denies CLS65 Rumors