Mercedes-Benz CLS Grand Edition

Between now and an all-new iteration of the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Stuttgart-based automaker has decided to launch a limited CLS Grand Edition, and a new word "designo" into the English vernacular. This limited edition CLS sports a "designo magno platinum" matt paint finish, designo interior with high-grade designo leather, and "Grand Edition" badging. According to Mercedes-Benz, the matt finish is scratch- and dirt-resistant, but if you are not convinced, then opt for one of four low-gloss metallic paint finishes in obsidian black, iridium silver, carneol red or flint grey. The "designo" or customization options continue into the CLS Grand Edition's interior, with anthracite Alcantara roof-liners, leather upholstery in a choice of "marron", sand, black, mystic red, porcelain or chablis hues, and laurel wood/leather trims for the steering wheel and selector lever. Other features that add to the exclusivity of this limited edition model are bi-xenon headlamps, an integrated cleaning and range adjustment system, active fog lamps that illuminate around corners and bends, shiny AMG 18-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels. The price of an entry-level CLS Grand Edition starts at 67,295 Euros, and the company is taking orders from January 2, 2009, with deliveries slated for March. Mercedes-Benz