Mercedes to axe next-generation CLS Shooting Brake

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly killing off its sleek CLS Shooting Brake after just one generation due to lack of interest from US and Chinese buyers.

The next-generation CLS is due in showrooms in 2018, but according to a report by Car Magazine in the UK, Stuttgart will not be replacing the slow-selling CLS Shooting Brake, even though final design for the next-generation has already been approved.

The axing of the CLS represents the first signs of carmakers consolidating their model range as the Chinese market slows, while the once booming Middle Eastern market stagnates.

Slow-selling body styles such as the entry-level three-door Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class are all being culled in the coming generation.

Let’s hope the best looking model in the A-Class range, the CLA will escape the death row.