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:

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  Love this car! - 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By jrcast79 - May 23 - 10:36 am

  Ive had my eye on this car for awhile and finally purchased last week. Really like the balance between peformance and looks. I test drove several of its competitors and I think this is hands down the winner.

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  My Dream Car - 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Mike Himel - May 12 - 2:10 pm

  Combines performance of a sports car with sophistication and elegance. You will find yourself making up errands to run just to drive this amazing car.

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  Best car we ever owned - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By mk - April 11 - 10:16 pm

  Always been Audi fan but when CLS got out could not resist - and have no regrets despite rather high price tag. Starts a bit slow but then jumps like its power has no limit; holds road very well, unsurpassed comfort and attention to details, and last but not least - real head turner

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  Awesome - 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By amayer - March 7 - 3:20 am

  This vehicle not only looks great, but drives as good as it looks as well! I never expected this car to drive so well. For a sports car, it drives better than any other car in its category.

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  CLS Mercedes - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By don - January 20 - 3:53 pm

  This is the best looking Mercedes in a long, long time. The exterior has beautiful sleek lines and is a "hottie". The interior up front is very nice. The instrument panel is basically an "E" class cluster with some added extras. The back seat is for two people only and if you are tall, you will be bumping your head on top. For a fun and great looking car, its great.

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  Beauty is only skin deep. Prototype woes - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By JP - January 5 - 6:23 pm

  Very disappointed with quality and road reliability. Has me seriously questioning ever owning a Mercedes again. True, looks and sumptuous cabin turn heads. Very comfortable on long cruises, even in back seat. Exceptional responsiveness. A blast to drive, but many miles have been logged going back 20+ times for maintenance, electronics, accessories, suspension and wheel repair in 36 months. Ball joints should outlast 70000 miles. Brake pad sensors disconnected to keep static off the radio when braking. Dry and wet road handling is fabulous, but just a dusting of snow incapacitates it. Simple items like cup holders failed and finishes are peeling. Sadly, like the Mona Lisa with big red zit.

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  New level Benzing - 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By clsowner - November 25 - 2:44 am

  I came out of an E500 and got into the 2012 CLS 550 and there is no comparison from the power to the technology Im very impressed. I temporarily flirted with leaving mercedes and going with the maserati, or porsche panamera, but am thoroughly glad I saved the money (funny saying that about a mercedes) and went with the CLS. My only drawback is I have a newborn and didnt fully consider the crampness of the backseat especially with the rear entertainment system, which makes it very difficult to put her huge car seat in and out of the car, but thats my problem. Overall in comparison to my e500 there is none, this is new level Benzing at its finest from bumper to bumper

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  A Truly Dream Car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Donald Ray - November 19 - 6:56 pm

  From the first day I took delivery, this car turns heads wherever I go. It has style and grace and is a true joy to drive. Worth every penny of the price. I have had three Mercedes in the past (450 SL, 300 D, 380SE) and this one is the best. It is a 4 door sports car. Handles better than my former C5 Corvette.

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  Former S Class owner - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Bob V - October 15 - 5:50 am

  I loved the S 430 I owned prior to trading for the CLS 500. I seldom had rear seat passengers, and wanted the comfort and performance of the S class. The CLS fit the bill perfectly. Great performance and handling, and a styling "tour de force." Highly recommend the car, but refrain if you have frequent need of rear seats for passengers. Space and comfort is OK, but entry and exit is challenging. Overall I give the car a 8 out of 10.

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  Beauty and the Beast - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By 20/20 - October 14 - 2:06 pm

  Love the looks of the vehicle and the attention it gets but not so keen on the ride. Dont know if I would have made the purchase had I known the transmission and ride would be so "less than desirable".