Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Luxury with passionate sportness
By Park Jin-hai
Mercedes claims design icon with new CLS-class
By Park Jin-hai
Mercedes-Benz, which led the four-door coupe segment with the CLS class, has given the 2015 models model a sexier and sleeker look.
The refreshed second-generation CLS has more elements befitting its name CLS ― a short for “chic, luxurious and sophisticated.”
Its design has been retouched with a honed front section, while interior details and technological features have been upgraded.
For the 2015 model, the German carmaker employs a futuristic multibeam LED headlamp for the first time.
The high-performance, precision intelligent light system comprised of individually controlled 24 LED lights automatically provides the best possible illumination, whatever the road and traffic conditions.
Yet it is not a volume sales model such as the E-class or S-class, the CLS shares the dynamism and elegance of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a sedan.
Local sales have been rising steadily for the car, whose chief designer Gorden Wagener allegedly once said would make observers “kneel.”
A total of 4,445 second-generation CLS-class models have been sold here up till November this year since August 2011 when the model was launched. This is a sharp increase from first-generation sales, which were 2,102 between 2005 and July, 2011..
Korea is in the top five nations where the CLS class enjoys popularity, according to Britta Seeger, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Korea CEO Britta Seeger.
The 2015 CLS-class added the “diamond grille” of A-class, S-class coupe, and a CLA-class fame. The front bumpers have been restyled, and the rear looks more aggressive.
The overall shape of the 2015 model’s headlamps remains unchanged, but it now has standard LEDs instead of xenons.
Multibeam LED intelligent light system
The ultra-advanced matrix LED headlights with 24 LEDs are controlled individually and can be dimmed in 255 stages.
The camera-controlled active light function offers, for instance, a preview function that already swivels the active light function when the driver has yet not turned the wheels. Thus it provides optimum illumination of the bend early on. This allows the driver to identify dangers earlier when entering and exiting bends.
The curve light also activates the cornering light function modules before entering a roundabout, providing the best visibility on all sides at an early stage.
Cutting-edge telematics system
The telematics and assistance systems have been further upgraded for 2015. Its navigation system, customized for Korean customers, shows three dimensional maps with real-time traffic data.
To meet the local needs, an automated toll charging Hi-Pass function has been embedded in its room mirror as well, enabling faster and convenient traffic on the highways.
Linguatronic, a voice-operated control for radio and telephone, and Bluetooth interface allow drivers full Internet access. Drivers can play Internet radio or retrieve such information as weather and news with a voice command.
Standard features throughout all CLS class models include an emergency warning system that informs drivers of natural disasters, a tire pressure monitoring system, collision prevention assist and active parking assist.
New CLS -class lineup
The new generation comes in four Models: CLS 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, CLS 400, CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC and CLS 63 AMG S 4MATIC.
The new generation CLS 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is an eco-friendly and fuel-efficient model.
The all-wheel drive with standard Euro 6 diesel engine has a fuel economy of 14.3 kilometers per a liter with a maximum speed of 236 kph. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in 7.9 seconds.
Since its 4MATIC all-wheel drive has 45:55 front/rear torque split, it maintains greater driving stability on slippery surfaces.
The model has a standard engine and all-wheel drive, yet its price has been cut by 4.2 million won to 85 million won.
The gasoline-powered new generation CLS 400 houses a new 3.0-liter V6 bi-turbo engine that delivers an impressive 333 horsepower with maximum torque at 48.9 kilogram meter. It has a standard-fit Airmatic air suspension with adaptive dampers, minimizing road noise and vibration. The base price is 99.9 million won, 2 million won cheaper than the previous model.
The CLS- class has two high-performance models. The new generation CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC has been fitted with AMG 5.5- liter V8 gasoline engine that generates up to 557 horsepower.
The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.7 seconds, but its carbon emissions have been lowered to the level of a V6 engine.
The new generation CLS 63 AMG S 4MATIC allows drivers to tune its engine to generate up to 585 horsepower. It can break 100 kph in just 3.6 seconds.
Both AMG models can reach 300 kph.
The CLS 63 AMG 4Matic is priced at 154.9 million won, while CLS 63 AMG S 4MATIC is priced at 169.9 million won, including value added tax.