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NEWS
Mercedes-Benz launches 10th anniversary CLS
And slow-moving V6 models make way for V8-powered CLS 500Mercedes-Benz has announced commemorative models to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the CLS – a model notable for pioneering the low-roof 'coupe' look emulated by others.
And the introduction of the special edition CLS signals a major shake-up for the range. Benz has dropped the V6 models – CLS 350 and 350 CDI – and reduced the price of the V8 CLS 500 by a staggering $50,400, which now places it in a position previously occupied by the diesel V6 model.
The limited edition variants, which are named CLS Avantgarde 10 Edition, are offered in a range of three: the CLS 250 CDI Coupe ($114,900) and Shooting Brake ($124,000), and the CLS 500 Coupe ($159,900).
By Benz's own assessment, the smaller-engined variants provide around $20,000 of 'nett customer value', while the V8 model builds that added value quotient up to $45,000. In addition to the standard specification, all models feature AMG body kit, 19-inch wheels, LED headlights/Intelligent Light System, heated front seats, Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround-sound audio, electronically-controlled dampers, quick-fold rear seats and DAB+ digital radio.
While the price slashing for the CLS 500 is the big news, the limited edition CLS 250 CDI models are priced $5000 lower than the standard counterparts also.
Benz has dropped the CLS 350 and CLS 350 CDI models from the on-going range because the V8 CLS variants are where the buyer interest is at, says David McCarthy, Senior Manager - Public Relations, Product and Corporate Communications for Mercedes-Benz Australia.
"Basically the models that are in the [CLS] range now are 250 CDI, 500 and 63 [AMG]... We've dropped the 350 petrol and the 350 diesel. Now, some of the reasoning behind is this that E-Class and CLS buyers, whilst they're not the same buyers, a lot of E-Class buyers look at CLS.
"And whilst the overall majority of new E 500 buyers are more than happy to have opted for the E 400, which is selling very well... there is still a demand for a V8, so because we don't offer a CLS 400, we decided what we would do is, with this 10th anniversary, we would make the 500 a lot more attractive. So the price is significantly lower than what it was for the [mainstream] 500."
According to McCarthy, CLS buyers fall somewhere between typical E-Class and S-Class buyers in their aspirations. They're perhaps more image-conscious than E-Class buyers, and the CLS 500 meets that need better than the V6 models.
"People love [the CLS 500]; we've made it much more affordable – to the tune of 50 grand – and that will pick up some E 500 buyers that don't want a V6," McCarthy concluded.
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Written byKen Gratton
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