Second Generation 2011 Mercedes CLS

We present you with the first spy pictures of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. Not the facelift, but the brand new next-generation model. Although few details can be seen, the CLS seems to adopt the overall styling of the S-Class and CL-Class, while the Ocean Drive Concept makes a rear appearance in the rear bumper and integrated dual exhaust tips.
The CLS was first produced in 2004 and was touted as the world's first four-door coupe. Featuring fastback features as well as a 2+2 seating arrangement, Merc wanted to ensure the best of both worlds with the CLS; sporty coupe looks and performance, coupled with the practicality of a sedan.
Power will be sourced from the usual assortment of V6, V8 petrol and diesels engines plus the possibility of a hybrid variant. For the range-topping AMG model a 400kW+/ 530bhp engine shared with the next 2010 E-Class is expected.

Soon other players will introduce rivals to the CLS such as the future Audi A7. Porsche has already revealed the Panamera for the segment and the Aston Martin Rapide plays along the same lines.

Audi A5/S5 Cabriolet Revealed

Inevitably Audi has released first information on the new Audi A5 Cabriolet, a bare-breasted two-door German with sleek lines and smooth engines. Offered with a total of seven engine derivatives, the A5 Cabriolet range adds sex appeal to the Audi family-car lineup. It sits four comfortably, keeps luggage almost like a normal sedan and is powered by the same petrol and diesel engines found in other Audis.

Quick to lose its canvass top, the A5 Cabriolet performs its "top off" stunt in 15 seconds, and "top back on" in 17 seconds through an electric system. The manoeuvres can be done at up to 50km/h (31mph) so no need to park on the side of the road when unexpectedly the heavens shed their tears. A neck-warming function is an option if driver and passenger fancy an open top cruise in cold weather.

As a start, a 1.8 TFSI with 160hp (118kW) provides entry into this segment, followed by a 180hp (132kW), 320Nm option, nicked closely at the heels by a 208hp (155kW) and 350Nm version of the same engine, that hard working 2.0-litre TFSI from the VW Group. At a mid level we see naturally aspirated V6 coming in, 3.0-litre size and making 265hp (195kW) and 330Nm of torque.

For those who love their open-sky driving as much as change in their pocket, Audi is making available two turbo diesels. Both V6 configured, the two are expectedly thriftier than their petrol counterparts. They are listed as a 2.7-litre TDI producing 190hp (140kW) and 400Nm, returning 6.3-litres per 100km, and the 3.0-litre TDI producing 240hp (176kW) and 500Nm of torque.

Top of the range, for now, at least until RS5 Cabriolet bares its teeth, is the S5 Cabriolet. True as predicted it features Audi's new 3.0-litre supercharged V6 with power figures of 333hp (245kW) and 440Nm. Audi says it will run from standstill to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds, yet retain an average fuel consumption figure of 9.6 litres/100km. Three transmissions come with the A5 range; standard 6-speed manual, infinitely-geared Multitronic and seven-speed double-clutch S tronic, depending on the model.


The cars come with an array of interior comforts, like MMI options, Alcantara for the S5, Bluetooth functionality, and Bang & Olufsen sound system or a digital TV tuner if those options are ticked. Deliveries of the Audi A5/ S5 Cabriolet will begin during the second quarter of 2009 at prices starting at €37,300.

BMW Z4

The first photo of a ready-to-sell BMW Z4 has leaked out of an undisclosed dealership. Not meant to be seen by the public until December 15th, the picture shows the final draft of the shiny roadster.

The BMW Z4 will sport an electro-mechanical differential called sDrive, and will likely have an additional engine option in addition to those already available. This new Z4 is thought to have 2.0-, 2.5-, and 3.0-litre engines, as well as a 3.0-litre twin turbo, and a massive 4.0-litre V8 from the M division.

Still uncertain is the auto show which will receive the new Z4 on a pedestal for its adoring public. The appearance of this photo makes us suspect a Detroit appearance may be imminent.

The new BMW Z4 will be produced at the Regensburg plant in Germany. The previous version was produced in Spartanburg.