Mercedes Benz has released full details of the new 2013 CLS Shooting Brake wagon which will be available in the European market soon. Just the like the four-door version, this estate version of the CLS retains the low-slung coupe lines making it a bit more attractive as compared to others. In fact Mercedes claims that the CLS Shooting Break is a sports car with five seats and a tailgate.
Although this CLS is quite low by estate standards, it has not compromised on space. The Shooting Brake can carry up to 1550 litres with the middle row folded and has automatically adjustable air suspension for a comfortable ride even with a full load. Mercedes is also offering a towing kit for those who are seriously looking at this car for utility purpose. The CLS will be available with two petrol engines –a 3.5-litre V6 churning out 306bhp and 4.6-litre V8 producing 408bhp. There are also two sensible diesel mills – commonly known 250CDI and 350CDI delivering 201bhp / 500Nm and 261bhp / 620Nm respectively. Initially only the diesel versions will be available mated to the seven-speed automatic gearbox with start/stop function as standard for better fuel economy.
Currently, the 2013 CLS Shooting Brake will be available only in Europe and Mercedes has not confirmed any plans for other markets. As for India – Mercedes won’t be too keen on launching this model here as buyers here prefer SUVs and MUVs over wagons. Then again, seeing as how the R-Class has been launched here, the style of the CLS Shooting Brake might just make a good enough case for Mercedes India to launch it here