2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS/CLE Prototype Shows Banana Shape Return, Looks Awesome

And while the first CLS rode that wave, the second generation of the vehicle didn't bring anything spectacular. Well, now that sloping rooflines are everywhere, the third coming of the CLS needs to step up its game in order to maintain its position.

For one thing, the automaker seems to be returning to the roots of the CLS/CLE when it comes to the styling of the vehicle. To be more precise, the banana shape that made us fall for the original seems to be making a comeback.

The German automotive producer could go for a different moniker, with the rumor mill talking about the CLE nameplate. Nevertheless, while this would admitedly reflect the fact that the CLS has always been closer to the E-Class than the S-Class, we see such a potential change as a move that would risk diluting the idenity of the car.

Another important transformation brought by the new generation has to do with the Affalterbach incarnations of the CLS/CLE, which might never happen.

The reason has to do with the introduction of the Mercedes-AMG four-door, which we've spied on multiple occasions.

The engine lineup of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS will include a new range of inline-six modular units. And while the diesel part of the family has already debuted on the S-Class facelift, we're still waiting for the German automotive producer to introduced the gas mills.

When can we expect to see meet the third incarnation of the lavish four-door coupe?

Regardless of the nameplate choice, the CLE/CLS is set to land in the first half of next year, coming to the market as a 2019 model.