It will still be a while before you can get up, close and personal with the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS, but thanks to some revealing spy shots, a leaked brochure and now, a flurry of official photos that hit the web, there’s nothing left to show but the press release.

The new Mercedes CLS, previewed by the German carmaker’s Shooting Break Concept shown earlier this year, is more of an evolution of the current model than a completely new take on the four-door sports saloon theme.

Set to have its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September, the new CLS will be offered with a variety of new powertrains including the freshly released 3.5 liter V6 producing 306HP and 4.7-liter bi-turbocharged V8 with 429HP.

The lineup will also include diesel options (depending on the market) while the range will top out with an AMG version powered by Merc’s new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 making at least 536-ponies.

The 2011 CLS will be a direct rival for the all-new Audi A7 Sportback, Porsche Panamera, Maserati Quattroporte and in the very near future, for BMW’s Gran Coupe sports sedan also.

Given the lack of anything truly new to offer, Mercedes-Benz has introduced a special edition version of its recently updated CLS four-door coupe model. The CLS Grand Edition is part of Merc’s new factory program called “designo” that offers buyers more exclusive options and differentiation within a model’s line-up. In the case of the CLS Grand Edition this means a new platinum matt finish which is allegedly highly scratch- and dirt-resistant. Buyers can also choose from four other colors – obsidian black, iridium silver, carneol red or flint grey.

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