Grand new edition of Mercedes CLS

Jun 22 2009 Steve Hughes

MERCEDES-Benz is to introduce a limited edition version of its stylish four-door CLS that costs more but represents a saving of about £2,000.

Although there is a price hike of £2,495 the new model has extra equipment valued at £4,636.

Just 560 versions of the CLS Grand Editions have been assigned to the UK, where the sleek car has proved a spectacular success since it arrived here claiming to be the world's first four-door coupe.

Based on the best-selling CLS 350 CDI and costing £48,445, the Grand Edition will reach showrooms next month with a choice of five colours including an unusual matt silver finish that is said to be exceptionally scratch and dirt resistant.

There are distinctive 18-inch AMG five-spoke alloy wheels with a titanium grey finish, front grille louvers and headlamp housings in a palladium silver matt finish and floor mats with Grand Edition badges.

The CLS Grand Edition also has a power upgrade of almost 50bhp, which takes the overall power output to 272bhp.

There is also an increase in pulling power which results in a 0-60mph acceleration time of 6.5 seconds, although there is no change to economy or emissions at 37mpg and 215g/km.

There is also a bi-xenon light package that includes an active light system, which improves road illumination in corners by up to 90 per cent, enabling the driver to see 25 metres further in the dark.