Spy Shots: 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS

Mercedes-Benz has been in the news a lot recently, when introducing the CL Coupe and then with images surfacing of the CL63 and CL65 AMG models. Now, the CLS gets its turn.

First the CL, than the CLS - if you like the CL, than you'll probably like the CLS, as the two share a lot in terms of styling. Lets check out the styling changes that are in store for Mercedes' fashion icon.

As expected, the car in general is a lot bolder and sharper. This new look for Mercedes eschews the less defined look of current cars. The design of the CLS was previewed at the Beijing Auto Show with the CLS Shooting Break (yes we spelt that correctly, check out the post to find out why).

The new look is a good departure from the previous car, without being too radical. With a car as successful as the CLS, which originally was quite radical, revolutionary change wasn't in the cards. However, the new car needs to differentiate itself from copycats like the Volkswagen Passat CC and, to a lesser extent, the Hyundai Sonata.

We love the side body sculpting and it looks quite good in that color red, doesn't it? The next-generation CLS is slated for a launch this year as a 2011 model year.

There is no official confirmation but we would take an educated guess that it could be first shown at the Los Angeles International Auto show. For a full-gallery of spy shots, head over to Autoweek.