It’s the first time in the model’s eight-year lifespan that it has been offered with a choice of two body styles. Shooting Brake versions gain five seats with a folding rear bench, a slightly larger 590-litre boot and standard air suspension at the rear, which adjusts automatically to compensate for the weight of the luggage on board.

The CLS Shooting Brake will be offered with a choice of 200bhp 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and 265bhp 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel engines, returning 53.3mpg and 47.1mpg and emitting 139g/km and 161g/km respectively. At the top of the model range will be a CLS 63 AMG model, with a petrol V8 offering 28mpg fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 235g/km.

Shooting Brake models will be available with the new AMG Sport trim from launch, as introduced with the recently revised C-Class range, before being rolled out on the coupe. Priced at £2,995 extra, this adds equipment including 19-inch AMG alloy wheels, sports suspension and brakes, LED lights and a body and interior styling pack.

Buyers can add an American Cherry Wood floor to the load compartment for all models, said to be inspired by luxury yacht decking.

UK deliveries are expected from November.