TONY Purslow Mercedes-Benz has proudly unveiled the new CLS-Class model.

The unique four-door, four-seater coup boasts characteristics that previously seemed at odds, such as dynamism and size, power and elegance, looks and practicality.

The result is a saloon's cabin space and luggage capacity with the emotionally-charged strong arcs, sweeping curves and acute angles of a classic coup.

The newcomer will be available from March 22, in three petrol engine variants - the V6 CLS350 and V8 CLS500, which feature with the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, and awesome CLS55 AMG, which hits 60mph from standstill in 4.5 seconds.

Not that the five-litre V8 fears a sports car comparison. It powers from nought to 60mph in a shade more than six seconds, with the V6 only a fraction behind, yet both return admirable fuel economy of 28mpg and 25mpg, respectively, on the combined cycle.

Inside the CLS-Class' four wide-opening doors is a plush cabin featuring swathes of fine wood trim and optionally sumptuous leather upholstery.

The new-look dashboard is unashamedly sporty and the dials have chrome edges to them.

Standard appointments in the CLS350 include automatic climate control, speed-sensitive power steering, a leather-covered steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels, while CLS500 owners also benefit from air suspension, larger alloys and leather upholstery.

Naturally, the coup boasts the very latest safety systems, including front, side and window airbags, sensotronic brake control (SBC), the electrohydraulic braking system, the emergency braking aid Brake Assist (BAS) and ESP.

For more information, call Tony Purslow Mercedes-Benz on 01256 464050.