Mercedes-Benz has announced a special edition version of the CLS four-door coupé, which signals the imminent replacement of the style icon. The Grand Edition is offered with special paint and trim along with extra equipment. Expect to see the new model in UK showrooms by the summer.

The signature colour for the new model is "designo magno platinum", a matt finish colour that is supposed to be highly scratch and dirt resistant. For the Grand Edition the radiator grille louvres are also finished in the matt platinum paint. Other distinguishing features include bi-Xenon headlamps with dark casings, high sheen 18-inch AMG alloy wheels - with titanium-painted pockets - and "Grand Edition" insignia on the front wings.

The interior features anthracite Alcantara headlining and seats finished in "marron" leather. Wood trim is incorporated into the dashboard, console, gear lever and the wood/leather steering wheel. Customers can choose whether to have the wood fillets with a high gloss or matt finish. Brushed stainless steel pedals with rubber studs are also included.

Mercedes-Benz has yet to finalise specifications for UK-market cars but expect to see the 3.2-litre CDI diesel unit and the direct-injection 3.5-litre V6 CGI petrol engine offered in the run-out model. The diesel has 221bhp while the petrol engine produces 288bhp. On the combined cycle the CGI engine will return 31mpg while the CDI can do 37mpg.

Full details of the colour options, specifications, trim and pricing will be announced before the CLS Grand Edition goes on sale in July.

John Lambert - 8 Jan 2009