The CLS has begun a trend that simply will not quit, with Volkswagen being the latest to join the express train to a 4-door-coupe. The 4DC trend is not a bad thing, especially since it has lead to the creation of BMW's CS. And frankly, if the rendering is accurate, this car could be a looker as well, and most likely a much better seller than a new Phaeton.

Internally, the car is called the CC or I/O 511, and might use Audi's A6 platform. If not, it will take its chassis, as well as transversely installed engines, and transmissions, from the Passat. Engines will range from a 150 hp 2.0-liter to a 280 hp 3.6-liter V6. The design was sorted out last year, and although only slightly wider than the Passat, it features the wide, aggressive look of VW's recent concept vehicles. The look that, sadly, hasn't made it to their production cars yet (come on, Scirocco!). Word has it that the car will take a bow at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, and go on sale in summer of '08.

[Source: eGM Car Tech via Auto Zeitung]