Mercedes-Benz launches CLS, SL and SLK in Singapore

The CLS range


A new, understated restyling programme spells a modified radiator grille with two louvres now instead of the previous four, diamond-shaped, three-dimensional grilles painted in atlas grey that cover the air intakes, new, larger exterior mirrors with LED side indicator lamps arranged in the form of an arrow, and new 17-18 inch alloys.

The rear apron, tail lights and trapezoidal tailpipes are new, while the low-beam headlamps now deactivate when the ignition is switched off.

The CLS 280 is equipped with a new entry-level 2996cc V6 with an output of 231 hp and 300 Newton metres. 0-100 km/h takes 7.7 seconds and top speed is rated at 245 km/h. The CLS 350 CGI piezoelectric, direct injection V6 generates 292 hp and returns 9.1 to 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), while the 5.5-litre CLS 500 V8 generates almost 388 hp.

A CLS 320 CDI will feature a 224 hp V6 diesel engine with an enormous, 540 Newton metres of torque, and with low fuel consumption figures of just 7.6 - 8.1 litres of diesel for every 100 km (NEDC combined).

All CLS models come fitted with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission as standard with self-shifting paddles.

The flagship CLS 63 AMG, is powered by the high-revving AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine and AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-TRONIC that rev-matches, and puts out with 514 hp and 630 Newton metres of torque, coupled with a new AMG sports exhaust system. The redesigned rear silencers deliver an even more captivating soundtrack through the two sets of oval-shaped, chromed twin tailpipes. It gets to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds, while top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h.

SL

With emphasis firmly on sportiness and effortless superiority, the new SL features a direct-steer system and new engines with higher compression, new pistons and a single intake manifold. The SL range will now feature two six-cylinder models in the shape of the SL 350 (316hp) and SL 280 (231 hp), as well as the familiar SL 500 V8, and the top-of-the-range SL 600 with a V12 powerplant.

The SL comes with bi-xenon headlamps and the optional Intelligent Light System whose lighting functions are designed specifically for typical driving situations. Further new features on board include AIRSCARF neck-level heating. Passengers are kept informed and entertained by the standard-fit COMAND multimedia system, which has also been fully revamped with a host of additional functions.

The instrument cluster and three-spoke leather sports steering wheel are new items, while new interior colours are available, namely in natural beige with pale burr walnut with a high-sheen finish inserts. The seat covers are also revised, with new fluting as standard.


SLK

A newly developed direct steering system with variable steering assistance is available as an optional extra (standard for the SLK 55 AMG). Based on the previously installed speed-sensitive power steering system, it now operates by pure mechanical means, meaning there is no need for elaborate actuators and complex sensors.

The new steering gear ratio changes in tune with the steering angle, and the ratio is indirect when the steering is in or around the central position to ensure excellent straight-line stability. The number of steering wheel revolutions from lock to lock is reduced by around 25 percent, meaning relatively little steering movement is required.

Although the displacement for the SLK350 remains the same at 3498 cc, the engine now develops 305 hp at 6500 rpm - 33 hp more than its predecessor. Peak torque has also been boosted, by 10 Nm, and now stands at 360 Nm at 4900 rpm.


This result was achieved by raising the engine speed limit to 6800 rpm, all the way to 7200 rpm for brief periods. Other changes introduced include a higher compression ratio, a new intake manifold and an extensively modified valve train.

The entry level SLK200's four-cylinder supercharged engine has been boosted by 21 hp to 184 hp, while torque has been increased from 240 to 250 Nm. Combined fuel consumption has been cut by 1.0-litre to 7.7 litres per 100 km whilst CO2 emissions have been reduced by 27 g/km to 182 g/km.

The SLK 280 has also been further improved with respect to fuel economy and, therefore, CO2 emissions.

On a technical level, the SLK 55 AMG remains almost unchanged. The only differences are a few visual enhancements. The front end of the AMG model now features a new apron with a black-painted cross strut and side air outlets as well as darkened headlamps.