Frankfurt Auto Show Update: Mercedes-Benz Introduces Vision CLS Concept Coupe

Mercedes-Benz is unveiling its Vision CLS coup� study at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main, Germany. This new and exciting vehicle concept is the first to combine the elegance and dynamism of a coup� with the comfort and practicality of a full-fledged saloon. "Our Vision CLS is a coup� generation ahead of the rest", says Professor J�rgen Hubbert, member of the DaimlerChrysler AG Board of Management and head of the Mercedes Car Group. "The idea of a four-door coup� opens up exciting possibilities. Featuring a sophisticated design and exclusive interior appointments, the Vision CLS is aimed primarily at people who have a passion for motor cars and motoring."

Based on a unique synthesis of coup� and saloon, the concept car displays elegant yet instantly dramatic lines and all the classic Mercedes comfort, innovation and safety hallmarks � the perfect blend of passion and practicality. And the same is true of the powerful diesel engine, its 195 kW and 265 hp providing the drive for a truly dynamic driving experience. The power plant propels the Vision CLS from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and enables it to reach a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Furthermore, this impressive performance does not cost the earth: the six-cylinder engine consumes 7.5 litres of fuel per 100 km and is fully compliant with the strict EU-4 emission standard.

"The combination of the ultimate in performance with low fuel consumption, EU-4 compliance and a diesel particulate filter highlights the enormous potential of this highly sophisticated six-cylinder biturbo diesel power plant and of diesel engines in general", states Professor J�rgen Hubbert.

Public opinion counts

The Vision CLS is the latest in a long line of high-profile Mercedes showcars. In recent years the Stuttgart-based manufacturer has unveiled a whole host of new and exciting vehicle concepts, most of which have gone on to enter series production (see page 14).

Our product planning team will again be on hand to gauge public opinion at the International Motor Show. The results of their survey will dictate what the future holds for this unique vehicle concept.

All the comfort, space and boot volume of a saloon

With four doors and a generous amount of space, the Vision CLS offers a great deal more added value than other coup�s in terms of both comfort and practicality. There is a gap of 829 mm between the front and rear seats, which puts the Vision CLS firmly in saloon territory. Furthermore, the boot of the Mercedes concept car holds 470 litres (VDA measuring method) � much more than any other coup� and even some saloons.

The body of the Vision CLS is 4910 mm long whilst the wheelbase length is 2854 mm.

High-tech equipment including SBC� and seven-speed automatic transmission

Equipped with leading-edge Mercedes innovations such as adaptive front airbags, windowbags and sidebags, not to mention belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all four seats, the coup� concept fulfils the high safety standards associated with Mercedes luxury-class cars. Further technical highlights of the Vision CLS include the Active Light System, Cornering Light and the electrohydraulic brake system Senso-tronic Brake Control (SBC�).

Mercedes-Benz combines the high-torque biturbo engine with the new 7G-TRONIC, the world's first seven-speed automatic transmission for passenger cars. It ensures supremely easy gear changes and fast acceleration in any gear � totally in keeping with the dynamic character of the concept coup�.

2003-09-09 Please quote Autoindex.org if You use this news article!