The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS has been spied without a trace of the disguise tape usually seen on pre-production prototypes, although there is a sheet covering part of the boot lid and all of the tail-lights.
Given the car’s parking spot next to a wall, our spy photography agency was unable to snap any pictures of the car’s front end. Earlier spy photos revealed an angular set of headlights flanking a version of the company’s Panamericana grille.
We can see, for the first time, the new CLS will have cleaner side surfacing than today’s car. The next-generation sedan also retains the silhouette and most of the styling themes established during the first two generations.
Inside, this pre-production model, probably a low-spec variant, features analogue instruments and circular air vents.
According to an Autocar report in March, the new CLS range will not feature V8 power. Instead the third-generation will be topped by an AMG CLS50 variant featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine.
Removing the V8 engine option will reportedly give the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GT4 sedan a piece of the market all to itself. That vehicle will initially be powered by a version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 seen in the E63 and other models.
Under the skin, the new AMG GT4 and CLS are said to share the MRA rear- and all-wheel drive platform used in the C-, E-, and S-Class models.
Unlike today’s CLS, it seems likely the new model will only be offered as a four-door coupe, with the shooting brake wagon variant to be dropped due to slow sales.
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