These spy pictures show the new Mercedes CLS, which will be launched later this year.
The E-class based car will retain its coupe like roofline, but take styling cues from the E-class for its bumpers, the SLS's upright grille, and the more angular lights that are becoming a feature of the Mercedes range.
See the Mercedes CLS spy pictures
Mercedes deign chief Gorden Wagener told Autocar at the Detroit motor show that the firm wants to take its future designs to a more artistic level.
"We want to elevate our design towards art and if any company can do it Mercedes can," he said.
A Mercedes CLS sculpture was shown at this year's Detroit motor show, and will be followed up by a more traditional concept car at the Geneva motor show next month.
The concept will also show Wagener’s new design philosophy for Mercedes.
"My goal is to make Mercedes the most beautiful car in the world, but also to give them style," Wagener said.
Wagener has also fuelled rumours that the next CLS will be joined by an estate model, but said that it would be more in the guise of a four-door shooting brake, not a all-out wagon.
"I like the idea of bringing back a shooting brake and there would be room for such a concept. And if we did do it, it would be the most stunning car in its sector," he said.
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Photos: Carpix/Carparazzi
