Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its CLS-inspired Shooting Break concept car ahead of its world debut at the Auto China motor show later this week.
Rather than the Shooting Break just being some ambitious concept that will never see the light of day, it sounds and looks like we are being given a glimpse of how the next generation CLS will look.
Coming with a long bonnet and a roof which continues through to the rear, the Shooting Break concept car features some "astonishing proportions" that are clearly reminiscent of the current version of the CLS.
But Merc has also drawn some of the Shooting Break's design cues from the new SLS AMG supercar, evident in its radiator grille, with the large star and bionic slats, that is not integrated into the bonnet but has been designed separately in the form of a "soft nose".
The grille is flanked on each side by full LED headlamps, which for the first time feature LED technology for all of the usual dynamic light functions. The side profile is given a touch of dynamism thanks to the high, exaggerated beltline sweeping towards the rear, and the dramatic character line which is supported by the powerful-looking rear wheel arches. The coupé-like side view is also emphasised with a low window design which also highlights the greenhouse with polished aluminium trim.
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Unfortunately, the Shooting Break concept car won't be powered by the same 6.2-litre V8 drivetrain housed in the SLS AMG: though its 3.5 litre V6 engine is claimed to deliver a not insubstantial 306bhp with a maximum torque of 370 Nm. And keeping in line with the BlueEFFICIENCY criteria of Mercedes-Benz, the concept car also offers amazing fuel economy levels, though its creators haven't told us what these are – yet.
"The Shooting Break concept car is based on the great tradition of a stylish, cultivated sportiness which has always characterised the great Mercedes Coupés, and it takes this unique legacy an exciting step further," explains Professor Gorden Wagener, chief designer at Mercedes-Benz.
"At the same time it points the way towards the future design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, " he added.
The Mercedes Shooting Break will make its first appearance on the world stage at the Auto China motor show that gets underway in Beijing this Friday.
