Mercedes-Benz has launched its a minor update of its four-door CLS 350 coupe at Rs 89.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). This is the same car that has been around for three-years now, albeit with a small update to keep things interesting till the facelift is launched.
The updated CLS 350 sports new 15-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, and gets a new silver diamond colour as well, which wasn't available previously. Apart from this the exterior remains the same, complete with its characteristic LED headlamps.
On the inside too, the CLS 350 remains largely unchanged. The COMAND system, however, has been upgraded, and now features more detailed maps for the sat-nav system, and Mercedes says, better iPhone integration. The reversing camera has been updated too. The three modes of mood lighting still adorns the cabin.
The CLS 350 gearbox, however, is paddle-shift operated manual mode. Previously, the shift paddles felt like they were just there for novelty's sake, as very often, the gearbox wouldn't function properly in manual mode. It would just take over and shift gears by itself when it deemed necessary. Mercedes says, the car now has a proper manual mode.
Under the hood, the CLS 350 is still powered by the same 3498cc V6 petrol engine that powers the old Merc. It is tuned to makes 302bhp and 37.7kgm of peak torque. The claimed 0-100kph speed, however, is down from the earlier 6.9 seconds to 6.1 seconds. The CLS 350 also gets an air suspension that now allows adjustment of ground clearance.
Mercedes-Benz India’s managing director and CEO, Eberhard Kern said, “With its exciting design and refined sportiness, the model year 2014 CLS offers highest level of exclusivity, ride comfort and safety that is second to none.”
The coupe-like CLS 350 would appeal to customers looking for a sporty luxury sedan and will compete with the Audi A7 and BMW 6-series. However, while the CLS 350 only gets a 3.5-litre petrol engine, at this price point, both the Audi A7 and BMW 6-series 3.0-litre diesel engines.