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The 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vision CLS Concept, unveiled at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA), represented a bold new concept for Mercedes-Benz: the fusion of coupe aesthetics with the practicality of a four-door sedan. This innovative "four-door coupe" design brought together the elegance of a coupe with the spaciousness and functionality typically found in sedans, pioneering a new vehicle segment for the brand.
Key features of the Vision CLS included a streamlined, sporty profile with frameless doors, a high waistline, and a sweeping roofline that accentuated its coupe-like silhouette. The front-end design introduced modernized Mercedes styling with new headlamp shapes while preserving the signature slatted grille and central star emblem. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury and spaciousness, featuring natural leather on the dashboard and A-pillars, soft leather seats, hand-finished oak veneer, and an expansive glass roof that illuminated the bright and inviting interior.
Performance was another hallmark of the Vision CLS. Powered by a 265-horsepower six-cylinder diesel engine delivering 560 Nm of torque, it combined dynamic acceleration with fuel efficiency, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and an electronically capped top speed of 250 km/h. The innovative 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth power distribution to the rear wheels. Despite its impressive power, the engine adhered to EU 4 emissions standards and achieved a fuel consumption rate of just 7.5 L/100 km.
Technologically, the Vision CLS was ahead of its time, featuring advanced safety and driver assistance systems. It incorporated Mercedes’ Active Light System, bi-xenon cornering headlights, and the electrohydraulic Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) from the SL-Class, which enhanced braking precision. Inside, adaptive front airbags, side airbags, window bags, and adaptive seatbelt systems ensured high safety standards.
The Vision CLS Concept generated tremendous interest and positive feedback, leading Mercedes-Benz to green-light its production as the CLS-Class (C219) in 2004. This move defined a new niche in luxury cars, setting Mercedes-Benz as a trendsetter in the industry. The Vision CLS would eventually rival BMW's 6-Series, and with its E-Class base, Mercedes-Benz anticipated capturing a substantial market share in the growing four-door coupe segment.
