LA MOTOR SHOW: Mercedes-Benz teases next-gen CLS

Mercedes-Benz has released a teaser image of its all-new, next-generation CLS-Class, which will introduce a new range of state of the art performance hybrid technology developed by AMG.

The single image, released over the weekend, confirms the four-door coupe rival to the Audi A7 will feature a curvaceous Mercedes-AMG GT-inspired nose, a pair of new-design headlights and boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lamps.

But, overshadowing the swoopy styling, the big news for the CLS comes from under the bonnet.

Not only will there be the widespread implementation of Mercedes' 48-volt mild-hybrid tech, Mercedes-AMG will also introduce its new '53' powertrain in the new CLS.

This will see the German car-maker's newly-developed 320kW 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine combined with a 50kW electric motor to provide a total power output of 370kW, with emissions and fuel consumption considerably lower than current cars with similar outputs.

Once launched in the CLS, the all-new AMG 53 powertrain will migrate to the C-Class, E-Class and S-Class, as well as the GLC, GLE and GLS SUVs.

Already spotted testing, the performance hybrid engine will over time be joined in the CLS line-up by non-AMG engines -- including a new inline six cylinder -- also featuring the 48-volt mild hybrid tech.

The technology includes the combination of an Integrated Starter Alternator (ISG) and an electric auxiliary compressor (eZV) which can spin-up the 3.0-litre's turbochargers to 70,000rpm in just 300 milliseconds.

Clawing back energy to power the eZV, which eliminates turbocharger lag, is claimed to boost engine power by between 10 to 15kW depending on engine size.