The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS has been spied testing toward the end of its development cycle, revealing much of the redesigned luxury sedan’s styling ahead of its debut.
Compared to the previous CLS, this version looks decidedly less sculpted. The swooping body lines and pronounced rear wheel arches are gone, but the recognizable overall CLS shape remains. The front and rear ends adopt typical Mercedes corporate styling cues – especially the rear, which looks very similar to that of the S-Class Coupe.
The new CLS will ride on a slightly lengthened version of Mercedes’ modular MRA platform used on the E-Class. It should also share an engine range with the E-Class, which in North America consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6. A plug-in hybrid with the 2.0-liter turbo engine should available as well. A hybrid AMG version called the ‘CLS 53 AMG’ is rumored to get Mercedes’ new twin-turbo inline-six cylinder engine, while the range-topping CLS 63 should receive its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
SEE ALSO: Mercedes-AMG Set to Introduce Hybrid Powertrain with New CLS
Photos show the CLS will also adopt the same dual-screen dash layout as the E-Class and S-Class. In fact, just about every aspect of the interior looks like it’s directly plucked from the E-Class – so don’t expect too many surprises in the new four-door coupe’s cabin.
The CLS looks just about ready to make its big debut, so we’re willing to bet it will show up at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show next month. If not, look for it at the Los Angeles Auto Show in late November.
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