William Maley

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is patient zero when it comes to the four-door coupe design. The first-generation model was a stunner and stood out from the other Plain Jane Mercedes models at the time. The second-generation model lost some of that distinctiveness but was still something a bit different from other sedans in Mercedes' lineup. Today at the LA Auto Show, Mercedes introduced the third-generation CLS. As we noted yesterday when pictures of the 2019 CLS leaked out, the new model is a bit stale in terms of the design. Mercedes says this is the evolution of their “sensual purity” design philosophy which appears to mean the various creases and bold lines are removed. The front end is similar to the CLA with a similar grille shape and wider headlights. The back features a trunk lid design similar to the C-Class and S-Class coupes. But the big news is what lies under the hood. When the CLS arrives in the U.S., it will only be available with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain also features a mild-hybrid system featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a combination starter and generator. It can provide an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque for short bursts, along with improving fuel economy. This will come paired with a nine-speed automatic and choice of either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Mercedes-Benz will begin selling the 2019 CLS in the U.S. next fall. Source: Mercedes-Benz Press Release is on Page 2 The new Mercedes-Benz CLS Third generation of the original Nov 29, 2017 – Stuttgart/Los Angeles: The new CLS pioneers the new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, which is recognizable by its clear contours and reduced lines. Its character is marked by a grille contour that widens towards the base and a forward-slanting front section. Other features include wide, low-set headlights and two-section taillamps. At the same time the design reflects the timeless aura of the first CLS, which founded a new segment and quickly became a design icon. The CLS is equipped with a new inline six-cylinder engine and is the first vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz lineup with 48-volt technology with ISG that offers increased efficiency and comfort. Like its predecessors, the new CLS exudes self-assured sportiness in exemplary style: a highly emotional vehicle offering impressive long-distance and acoustic comfort coupled with thrilling, unrivalled technology. Additionally, the all-new four-door coupe seats 5 passengers for the first time. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have its World Premiere at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show in November, and will go on sale in the U.S. by Fall 2018. In 2003, with the CLS, Mercedes-Benz created a new vehicle segment that combined the elegance and dynamic feel of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a sedan for the first time. With the third generation of the CLS, Mercedes-Benz is building more strongly than ever on the aura and unique character of this trendsetting model: the new model has pure CLS genes with its arching waistline, flat side window lines and low greenhouse. At the same time it is another example of the logical evolution of the Sensual Purity design idiom: sharp edges and lines have been significantly reduced. It blends seamlessly into the current Mercedes-Benz coupe family with numerous design features. The in-line six-cylinder engine in the CLS450 and CLS450 4MATIC is completely new, boasting 362 hp in addition to a 21 hp boost from the integrated starter- generator. The sporty CLS also has a comfortable side: AIR BODY CONTROL suspension, ENERGIZING Comfort and the very latest infotainment generation with Inductive Wireless Phone Charging with NFC pairing accentuate this. The standard appointments of the CLS are very extensive: highlights include AMG body styling, newly designed LED headlamps and taillamps, 19-inch light-alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch high-resolution COMAND® display, ambient lighting including illuminated air vents, Car-to-X Communication and Smartphone Integration. Exterior: Self-assured sportiness in the style of Mercedes-Benz coupes "The new CLS is a design icon as the archetype of the four-door coupe. In line with our hot & cool design philosophy, we have reduced its DNA to an extremely puristic level while emotionally charging its beauty," says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG. Striking front-end features include the diamond grille typical of Mercedes-Benz coupes, with a single louver. The silhouette of the radiator grille widens towards the base, resembling the contours of the grille on the Mercedes-AMG GT. The hood is completely surrounded by body surfaces. The very flat and wide headlamps with inward-slanting flanks dynamically follow the contour of the grille. The side design is characterized by the high, arching waistline and the sporty, low greenhouse with frameless side windows. The forward-slanting front end is reminiscent of a shark's nose, and appears longer thanks to the fully inset hood. The contours follow the design philosophy of sensual purity: lines and edges are greatly reduced, and the surfaces are generously arched. Also typical of the CLS is the muscular rear shoulder line which blends smoothly into the flat rear end. Characteristic coupe features include the two-section taillamps, reflectors positioned in the rear bumper, location of the license plate in the bumper and the Mercedes star at the center of the trunk lid. Like the headlamps, the LED taillamps have a crystalline appearance and create a three-dimensional effect. Their low positioning accentuates the width of the vehicle. Interior consistent color scheme, Widescreen Digital Instrument Cluster The luxurious interior of the CLS Coupe impresses with its clear basic lines, and echoes the sensual, flowing contours of the exterior. The high-grade choice of materials shows a very high level of finish. The sporty, width-accentuated cockpit and color combination creates an impression of particularly generous spaciousness. For a flowing overall impression, the wave-like course of the interior design extends from the front to the rear doors, opening up at the B-pillars. As a new highlight of the ambient lighting, the illuminated air vents are reminiscent of jet aircraft turbines. The sporty impression is also reinforced by the hand-finished appearance of the seats. The CLS450 is equipped with a high-resolution central display with a wide screen diagonal of 12.3 inches, and is optionally available with two 12.3-inch displays that merge to form a wide-screen cockpit beneath a shared, continuous glass cover. The center console with open-pored or high-gloss wood appears to be free-floating thanks to its surface trim. In the fully digital cockpit, the driver is able to feely configure the information content according to need and the driving situation. Three different styles can be selected depending on preference, mood or to suit the interior appointments: Classic, Sport or Progressive. The ambient lighting is individually adjustable in 64 colors, and also includes the air vents. When the temperature setting of the air conditioning system is changed, it briefly changes color to show whether the temperature is being made warmer (red) or cooler (blue). The seats were also newly designed exclusively for this model series with high- quality piping. The outer seats in the rear have the same appearance as the front seats, creating a sporty single-seat impression, although the CLS Coupe is in fact a five-seater for the first time. When required the backrests can be folded down in a 40/20/40 ratio. Wellness on long-distance journeys: ENERGIZING Comfort ENERGIZING Comfort links various comfort systems in the vehicle. It systematically uses the functions of the climate control system (including fragrancing) and the seats (heater, ventilation, massage), the surface and steering wheel heating as well as lighting and musical atmospheres, and allows a specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of the customer. As a result, well-being and performance levels are enhanced. These six programs can be selected: Refresh / Freshness Warmth Vitality Joy Comfort / Well-Being Training (three training modes – muscle relaxation, muscle activation and balance – each with several exercises). Intelligent Drive: Technology from the S-Class The new CLS generation has many things in common with the new S-Class, the automotive flagship of the entire industry. The CLS is equipped with the latest generation of driving assistance systems, with route-based speed adaptation and driver support provided by the Driver Assistance Package. The range of driver assistance and safety systems features a modular design and as standard includes Active Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST and the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®. Newly standard as well is PRE-SAFE® Sound (prepares human hearing for the anticipated accident noise when there is a risk of a collision). The optional Driver Assistance Package consists of Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist now provide even more comfortable support for the driver to keep a safe distance and steer. The speed is now adjusted automatically ahead of bends or junctions. Active Lane Change Assist has also been significantly improved. Thanks to improved camera and radar systems, the new CLS also has an even better view of the surrounding traffic. For the first time it also makes use of map and navigation data to calculate driving behavior. The "Assistance Graphics" menu of the instrument cluster shows the driver at a glance which assistance functions have been selected, and to what situations the systems are currently responding. Unmistakable icons provide the driver with information on-screen as well as in the head-up display. All functions are now controlled from the steering wheel. In stop & go traffic on motorways and similar roads, stops of up to 3 seconds are now possible, during which time the CLS starts moving again automatically and follows the traffic. The LED Intelligent Light System is now optionally available with advanced LED headlamps and Ultra Wide Beam high beams. The Ultra Wide Beams produce light at an increased width for maximum illumination of the road and surround area. For the driver, this means a clear improvement of the already great lighting performance of the LED Intelligent Light System. Adaptive Highbeam Assist is also part of the LED Intelligent Light System and allows drivers to drive with activated main beams without dazzling other road users. When there are oncoming vehicles or vehicles in front, the LEDs of the high beam modules are switched off. The other areas of the road continue to be illuminated with the mainbeam. Suspension The new CLS has a four-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. A dynamically set-up steel comfort suspension is standard equipment. The optionally available AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension has been improved, adjustable and adaptive damping system. The driver is able to choose vehicle characteristics from comfortable to sporty using the driving mode switch. New engine: with EQ Boost and 48 volt onboard electrical system The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS is powered by a completely new in- line six-cylinder engine. The new, systematically electrified in-line six-cylinder with EQ Boost (integrated starter/generator) and a 48 volt onboard electrical system powers the CLS450 and CLS450 4MATIC. Its performance data: 362 hp and 369 lb-ft plus a further 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available via EQ Boost over short periods. The integrated electric motor known as EQ Boost assists the combustion engine, for example when accelerating, makes driving without the combustion engine possible ("sailing") and supplies the battery with power by means of high-efficiency recuperation. By doing so it makes fuel savings possible that were previously the exclusive domain of high-voltage hybrid technology. All in all, the new in-line six-cylinder engine delivers the performance of an eight-cylinder engine with significantly lower consumption. The CLS450 is equipped with a particulate filter as standard. The new CLS450: CLS450 / CLS450 4MATIC Number of cylinders/ arrangement 6/in-line Displacement (cc) 2,999 Rated output (hp) 362 hp @ 5,500 – 6,100 rpm Add. output from EQ Boost (hp) 21 hp Rated torque (lb-ft) 369 lb-ft @ 1,600 – 4,000 rpm Add. torque from EQ Boost (lb-ft) 184 lb-ft Acceleration 0-60 mph (sec) TBA / TBA Edition 1: Particularly exclusive launch model The exclusivity of the CLS can be heightened even further with the Edition 1. Numerous standard luxurious features include the COPPER ART interior concept with seats in black pearl nappa leather with center sections in a diamond design and copper-colored accents, copper-colored contrasting topstitching on the center console, seats, armrests, dashboard and door linings, and a unique diamond grille with matt chrome pins and louver with a copper-colored shimmer. The exterior is based on the AMG Line. Special features include the LED Intelligent Light headlamps as standard and 19-inch multi-spoke AMG light alloy wheels painted in black with a high-sheen rim flange. The special model is recognizable by the "Edition 1" lettering on the front fenders. Highlights of the interior include: Dashboard support lined in black nappa leather Center console and dashboard support trim in Natural grain black ash wood with matching center console IWC analogue clock with exclusive dial face Vehicle key in high-gloss black with high-sheen chrome surround Floor mats with "Edition 1" badge and copper-colored piping Chrome "Edition 1" lettering on the center console and "Edition 1" display on the welcome screen. View full article

I'll ask Drew since he'll be at the show and can give a better answer. I haven't sat in an MKX at all.

The MKX is gone. Well, the name at least. Last night, Lincoln unveiled the 2019 Nautilus. Before we get into the vehicle itself, we need to talk about the name. The Nautilus will mark the end of Lincoln's confusing "MK" nomenclature. Part of the change comes down to the launch of the Continental sedan. People like actual names for vehicles. "When we launched the Continental, I think we underestimated how much affinity there was not only for the name but the fact that people like to associate names with cars. This kind of connection consumers have, especially to American brands and names, we felt like is something Lincoln could own. It's something we've owned in the past," said Robert Parker, Lincoln's head of marketing to Automotive News. The other part is the Chinese market. The "MK" system isn't as easy to pronounce as actual names. Lincoln is planning to rename the MKC and MKZ when they get some significant updates. As we saw in leaked photos yesterday, the Nautilus features the same front end design as the Continental with rectangular grille and slimmer LED headlights. The rest of the vehicle's exterior is unchanged. Inside, Lincoln has made some minor changes with a new digital instrument cluster, SYNC 3, and the optional 22-way power seats. Power for the Nautilus begins with a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder with 245 horsepower. Optional is a 2.7L twin-turbo V6 with 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. Both engines will have a stop-start system and an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive that can decouple from the rear axle to improve fuel economy is optional. New active safety equipment includes an adaptive cruise system that can bring the car to a stop and resume in congested traffic, a lane centering system that uses radar and cameras to keep the Nautilus in its lane, and evasive steer assist that “uses radar and cameras to analyze the gap between slower-moving and stationary vehicles on the road ahead to lessen the risk of a rear-end collision. If the risk is high and there is insufficient space to avoid a collision by braking, the system helps the driver steer around the vehicle.” No word on pricing, but the 2019 Nautilus will arrive at Lincoln dealers next spring. Source: Lincoln, Automotive News (Subscription Required) Press Release is on Page 2 New Lincoln Nautilus Pairs Powerful Performance With Driver-Assist Technologies That Inspire Confidence New Lincoln Nautilus debuts with Lincoln-first technology that inspires driver confidence, like all-new lane-centering feature that helps subtly maintain the vehicle’s position in its lane Nautilus is designed to build on the momentum of Lincoln’s best-selling midsize luxury SUV by offering enhanced features for a smoother, more connected drive, and even more standard ownership services Catering to the desire of luxury clients for personalized vehicles, Gala, an opulent new Lincoln Black Label theme, debuts on Lincoln Nautilus, taking its cues from the world of haute couture at New York’s Met Gala LOS ANGELES, Nov. 28, 2017 – The Lincoln Motor Company introduces the new Lincoln Nautilus, a midsize luxury SUV delivering a powerful turbocharged engine range and a suite of advanced technologies designed to give drivers greater confidence on the road. Nautilus – the successor to Lincoln MKX – joins the recently unveiled 2019 MKC, the elegant Continental, the all-new Navigator, and the stylish MKZ for a lineup of vehicles instantly recognizable as Lincoln. “With the introduction of Nautilus, Lincoln has a strong, distinctive portfolio with a common and recognizable identity,” said Lincoln President Kumar Galhotra. “We’re excited to add Nautilus to our Lincoln family of luxury SUVs, along with a new name that better reflects the ideas and attitudes of our clients.” Lincoln’s midsize SUV continues to attract new clients to the brand, with a conquest rate of nearly 40 percent. New clients are crossing over to Lincoln from Cadillac, Lexus and more. Sales continue to be strong, and the vehicle is on track to deliver its best sales year since its introduction in 2007. Tasteful design, exceptional craftsmanship and room for up to five passengers make it a popular choice for clients in the market for a luxury crossover vehicle. Personalized elegance The distinctive design of Lincoln Nautilus aligns with the rest of the Lincoln family, presenting a strong, bold signature grille. The midsize utility vehicle maintains its unique, sleek shape, offering a harmonious aesthetic and aerodynamic efficiency. A new wheel selection allows clients to order a Lincoln Nautilus to suit their personal style. Upon approach, Lincoln Nautilus welcomes clients with Lincoln embrace lighting, first from the outside, then from the cabin. The new cabin is thoughtfully designed, providing a spacious, modern interior that keeps the focus on comfort and serves as a sanctuary from the outside world. Acoustic side glass is added to reduce wind noise for rear passengers, and advanced engineering solutions decrease noise from the road. Available Ultra Comfort seats can be adjusted up to 22 ways for personalized comfort, providing lumbar massage designed to reduce fatigue. Developed with input from orthopedic surgeons, this feature is especially beneficial on long trips or while waiting in traffic. Heated and cooled seats are available on the Reserve model. Available 13-speaker and 19-speaker Revel® audio systems offer the ultimate sound experience to add to the soothing environment. Sleek form, effortless function A sleek console serves to open up the cabin, while the sophisticated push-button gear shift integrates seamlessly with classic knobs and buttons. A concealed wireless charging pad allows compatible smartphones to stay connected, and puts an end to the hassle of tangled cords. A large center touch screen serves as the portal to standard SYNC® 3 with both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility, enabling clients to manage audio, phone, navigation and more either from that point or steering wheel-mounted controls. The leather-wrapped, hand-stitched steering wheel is mounted ahead of a 12.3-inch fully configurable digital instrument cluster that displays easy-to-read driver information crisply and clearly. Confidence assured New for 2019 is a suite of Lincoln-first driver-assist technologies designed to inspire confidence and make each journey enjoyable. “The technology in this vehicle is thoughtful and purposeful,” said Galhotra. “We focused on bringing in innovative features to make each drive effortless for our clients.” A suite of new technologies for Lincoln Nautilus includes a lane-centering feature that pairs with adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality to help subtly maintain the vehicle’s position in its lane using a combination of radar and cameras. Also debuting is evasive steer assist, which uses radar and cameras to analyze the gap between slower-moving and stationary vehicles on the road ahead to lessen the risk of a rear-end collision. If the risk is high and there is insufficient space to avoid a collision by braking, the system helps the driver steer around the vehicle. Additional driver-assist technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Information System, active park assist, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping aid and an auto-hold feature, which relieves the driver from having to hold the brakes in stop-and-go traffic. Two turbocharged options Lincoln Nautilus moves to an all turbocharged engine lineup for 2019, offering a powerful 2.7-liter engine that delivers an estimated 335 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is delivered courtesy of three technologies – turbocharging, direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing. A standard estimated 245-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is efficient and smooth in operation. Both engines include standard Auto Start-Stop capability, plus an eight-speed automatic transmission. Lincoln Black Label For clients seeking a unique personalized experience, Lincoln Black Label is available for the new Nautilus. Lincoln Black Label not only provides premium materials in specially curated designer themes, but also offers a host of membership privileges. These include annual vehicle detailing, anytime carwashes, and access to a select list of restaurants where noted chefs will provide an at-your-service dining experience. The three Lincoln Black Label themes for the new Nautilus are Chalet, Thoroughbred and all-new Gala: Chalet, new for Lincoln Nautilus, evokes the contrasting pleasures of pulse-pounding mountain slopes and the inherent comfort of an après-ski lodge. With Espresso and Alpine Venetian leathers and deep Silverwood appliqués, each touch is designed to awaken the senses Thoroughbred celebrates the distinguished and elite lifestyle of horse racing, offering a reflection of traditional American history. Rich Venetian leathers capture the spirit of the equestrian life, while Chilean Maple wood, Alcantara® accents and Jet Black trim carry the excitement throughout Gala, inspired by haute couture at New York’s Met Gala, features seats draped in a deeply hued and elegant Carmine leather complemented by Onyx leather and an Alcantara headliner. Handsome Nouveax Armor aluminum accents bring a lightness to the cabin, with a luster magnified by the available panoramic roof Effortless ownership Lincoln continues to increase its focus on service offerings that provide an effortless ownership experience, like standard Pickup and Delivery for the new Nautilus. Lincoln is the only luxury automaker to provide Pickup and Delivery as a standard service for all its vehicles to save clients time and effort. Additionally, starting Jan. 1, 2018, new Lincoln owners will receive a six-month complimentary CLEAR membership, allowing them to speed through security at participating airports and major arenas nationwide. Lincoln Black Label members will receive a 12-month complimentary membership. Ease of ownership is also enabled through the Lincoln Way™ app. Lincoln Way allows clients to start, lock, unlock and locate their new Nautilus, as well as schedule remote starts to enable the vehicle to heat or cool to comfortable levels. Owners can use the app to monitor fuel levels, and check tire pressures and battery status. Lincoln Way also allows clients to make monthly vehicle payments or pay for parking. The new 2019 Lincoln Nautilus will be available at Lincoln dealers this summer. View full article