Overview & Reviews

When it comes to shaking up the luxury car world, no amount of power, technological sophistication or supple leather in the cabin can top an alluring design. More stunning in person than even the most flattering photography might suggest, the coupelike Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class has a visual presence that few other luxury sedans can match. And that is something that's not likely to change for some time to come.

Yet whether you're looking at the current CLS or its predecessor, both share much of their underlying structure, engines and hardware with the well-regarded E-Class. In a way, you're essentially buying a more visually interesting version of Mercedes' popular midsize sedan. However, in doing so you will be trading in some practicality. Though the front seats are every bit as accommodating as Mercedes' S-Class full-size luxury flagship, the CLS' dimensions in back are tighter in nearly every direction when compared to more mainstream sedans. Additionally, the high beltline and small rear windows can make occupants feel closed in. Overall, though, for the luxury car buyer who desires distinctive styling, strong performance and a sumptuous interior, the CLS is easy to recommend.

Current Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is a four-door sedan with coupelike styling. Based on the E-Class, it shares that model's V8 engines and rigid structure that helps promote a composed ride along with confident handling characteristics.

The CLS-Class lineup starts with the CLS550. It's equipped with a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 402 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic are standard, but you can get "4Matic" all-wheel drive as an option.

The CLS63 AMG goes a few steps further with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 good for 550 hp and 531 lb-ft of torque in its standard form, and 577 hp and 590 lb-ft with the optional S-Model package. As 4Matic is standard, power is sent to all four wheels through a seven-speed automated manual transmission. Besides its powertrain, the 63 gets AMG-specific wheels, suspension, steering and styling details. A limited-slip differential, forged alloy wheels and carbon-ceramic brakes are options.

As with the exterior, the CLS' cabin takes on an organic and curvaceous theme. Materials are beyond reproach. The control layout is similar to the E-Class, though it swaps in an analog clock and the older knob-style climate controls in lieu of the newer toggle buttons. Stepping up to the CLS63 adds a chunky AMG steering wheel and fills the center console with AMG vehicle controls and the MCT transmission selector (complete with an embossed AMG crest) instead of the 550's electronic column shifter.

With its low, racy roof line and two-person backseat, the CLS isn't what we'd call the ideal people carrier. If you frequently ferry people around or have particularly tall friends, opting for an E-Class is probably a wiser idea. Indeed, this is the price you pay for that slinky styling. Well, besides the literal higher price attached to it compared to the E. At least you get a spacious trunk.

On the road, the "base" CLS550 essentially matches the acceleration of the previous-generation AMG model, while the CLS63 matches the get-up of many exotic sports cars. Both also handle brilliantly, tricking the laws of physics by going around corners with talent that belies their size. Nevertheless, ride quality is excellent in the CLS550 and acceptably firm in the CLS63. In total, this is a truly special luxury sedan for those who want a little flair from their four-door daily driver.

Used Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Models
The current-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class debuted in 2012. Compared to the first-generation CLS, this one rides and handles better, boasts better build quality and has superior ergonomics with more user-friendly controls. The following year brought an updated mbrace telematics system and a new Bang & Olufsen audio option. These early second-gen CLS models differ from today's version in a handful of minor ways. All lack an automatic engine stop-start feature (which helps to reduce fuel consumption), while the CLS63 AMG was rear-wheel drive and had less power. Still, with outputs of 518 hp and 516 lb-ft for the standard CLS63 and 550 hp and 590 lb-ft with the available AMG Performance Pack, that doesn't strike us as much of a disadvantage.

The first-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class was produced from 2006-'11. Like the current car, it was based on the E-Class sedan of its time period and featured sleek, coupelike styling and the practicality trade-offs that came with it. Used shoppers will note that the key differences between this model and the one that replaced it are less user-friendly interior controls, less backseat room, hydraulic versus electric steering and less exuberant acceleration (although this is more a testament to the current car rather than an indictment of this one).

For 2006 only, the CLS-Class was available in CLS500 and CLS55 AMG guises. The former came with a 5.0-liter V8 rated at 306 hp, while the CLS55 AMG had a 469-hp supercharged 5.5-liter V8. From '07 until the end of this generation's run in 2011, the CLS550 featured a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 that produced 382 hp. The 2007-and-up CLS63 AMG had a 6.2-liter V8 that made 507 hp. A seven-speed automatic with manual-shift capability was standard for both trims. Acceleration was obviously very strong for both.

Inside the cockpit, sweeping wood panels, chrome trim surrounds, premium materials and beautiful detailing made the CLS more visually interesting than other Mercedes-Benz sedans of the time. However, the car's coupelike roof line and tighter door openings made getting in and out of the rear seats more difficult. Once in place, the aft quarters were surprisingly accommodating, but headroom bordered on unacceptable for 6-footers. The short windows also made it feel less airy than a typical sedan, but compared to a traditional two-door coupe, this Mercedes-Benz CLS was legitimately comfortable in back rather than merely tolerable.

In reviews, we've noted that this first-generation CLS-Class offered plenty of entertainment value to go along with its gorgeous styling. Transitioning from one curve to the next made it obvious that the CLS was something more than the average midsize Mercedes. The CLS550 even invited spirited driving thanks to its quicker steering and reduced body roll compared with its E-Class contemporary, while the CLS63 AMG pushed the envelope even further thanks to its sport-tuned suspension, more powerful brakes, and bigger wheels and tires.

Besides the '07 engine swap, changes were light during this generation. For 2009, the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class received a mild exterior styling refresh, including an updated twin-bar grille, restyled wheels, trapezoidal exhaust tips and reshaped LED taillights. The COMAND interface was also revised, but it was always plagued by usability issues. Instead of the touchscreen interfaces of some competitors or the screen-and-knob system that replaced it, this generation of COMAND featured an LCD screen and multidirectional buttons akin to a video game controller.

User Reviews:

• 

  This car deserves a serious look - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By DrDanno - October 4 - 8:20 pm

  Having a bad experience with high-line Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the past 6 years, I was reluctant to even LOOK at this car; however its exterior styling is so compelling that it lured me in. Once in the cockpit, I was warmed by the comfort and ambiance of the interior layout, and thrilled at the throaty exhaust note. The car handles well, accelerates with exhiliration, and overall satisfies an enthusiasts lust for power and speed. It falls short on standard features for its lofty price, forsaking such things as the COMAND and navigation system, relegating them to the option list. Additionally, the paint is not up to M- B standards; too much orange-peel in the surface. Still, a good choice.

• 

  Bye Bye Porsche - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Rob - October 4 - 8:16 pm

  Traded in my 2002 911 for something a little more "family friendly", but with some pizzazz. Couldnt be happier. I love the comfort, the styling, and the performance. It looks like its going 80mph while still in park. It just is everything I wanted in a car.

• 

  The True Exotic Mercedes Benz AMG - 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By D. Waters - October 3 - 1:03 am

  We bought a CLS 63 AMG Mystic White Designo Performance Plus, and my goodness what a car! We were originally going to get a Bentley Continental Flying Spur, but we chose to get this car. That was the best choice we ever made when it comes to a car. The interior of the CLS 63 AMG designo is far superior to the Bentley. I love the performance of this car! This car has around 568 horsepower, more than the standard CLS 63 AMG. I love the exclusitivity! There are only 3 in California and 1 in Utah. The acceleration is around 3.9 seconds to go 0-60 mph. This car gets so much attention, too! All in all, this car is an exotic

• 

  Sleekest looking sedan on road - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Julian Juster - September 24 - 12:00 pm

  Having recently owned an 03 SL500, an05 CLK55 Cabriolet, and having an 03E320 in the garage, I rate this new model just what I have been dreaming of. Handling, acceleration, interior stereo, rakish looks, and so on! I also owned 2 CL500s and this is such a perfect follow-through.

• 

  Great 2nd owner car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By J Hood - September 24 - 12:43 am

  I purchased this car as a certified preowned car with 24000 miles on it. I have read other owners concerns which I assume have all been addressed during the initial ownership. I have had a fantastic experience with an essentially brand new car for the past 4 mos. Definitely a drivers dream but a pleasure to travel in for 3 other passengers. Slightly challenging to get in and out of but a pleasure to own.

• 

  My dream Car - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Bobb - September 1 - 12:23 pm

  I live in Chicago and found my dream car in Annapolis, they made me a deal I couldnt turn down. We drove it home the next day and I loved every minute of the drive. Comfortable, great looking "real head turner", lot of power and 26 miles per gallon. The way dash board lights up at night is like a 747.

• 

  Sleek - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Mark - August 23 - 5:23 am

  Heads turn often. Awesome sleek new look. Great power and handling. The car has a legitimate 2 person adult rear seat. Very comfortable. Despite low profile, I have not noticed any vision impairment at all.

• 

  The Perfect SedanSports Car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By John Greer - August 18 - 3:20 pm

  Standard of excelence that exceeds all expectations of comfort, design, and performance. Its muscle car performance will make a "hole" in the wind.

• 

  One of the most fun cars to drive - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By David - July 18 - 3:03 pm

  Great balance between speed/sports car and luxury. Wicked fast when you want it. Super soft for cruising (highway driving is great - not like a big sedan but much smoother than similar speed sports cars). Four adults OK but a little tight. Great choice for sports car with the occational need for four adults.

• 

  CLS55 AMG - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By CLS55 AMG - May 26 - 6:56 pm

  Mercedes hit a bulls eye with this car. It is a user-friendly "bad boy" Its fun to drive an never lets you forget that you are in an amazing blend of raw power and forgiving, state of the art engineering.