Merc CLS Shooting Brake offers more

A fifth seat, more headroom and the benefit of an extended load capacity are the advantages which may well expand the attraction of the CLS model for Mercedes-Benz, writes Trish Whelan.

While it was only a concept car in Frankfurt last year, it took just three days after the show ended for the brand to make the decision to produce the CLS Shooting Brake such was the interest it generated.

Mercedes-Benz Ireland say the 250 CDi (2.1-litre) will be the volume selling car here. It comes with 200hp, 500 Nm of torque and current road tax of €225. It is priced at €70,590.

The 350 (3.0-litre diesel) has 620 Nm of torque, a current annual road tax of €481 and is priced at €76,590.