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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  Much better - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By jwo - May 16 - 5:53 pm

  It is about time that this beautiful sedan has the performance to match its racy looks. For the past year I had been wanting a CLS but found it performance to weak for a sedan of this class. However, when I heard that for 07 MB was putting a larger engine with 80 more hp in, it sealed my decision. This car is perfect and get so many looks while crusing down the road. The interior is beautifully appointed. I am very pleased.

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  Better and Worse than my 07 - 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By carlspackler1 - April 8 - 7:52 am

  I previously owned a 07 CLS with the AMG sports package. After looking at the Mercedes E 550 coupe, Jag XF Supercharged, and BMW M3, I purchased an identical CLS because I felt it offered a nicer interior, and better styling for less money. . So far we have put 6,000 miles on the car with no problems. The first thing I noticed on the test drive was that the interior seemed "cheaper" over the 07. Front seats did not offer the bolstering, and the leather seating surfaces did not exude the feeling of quality like the 07. The car rides,and handles much better than the 07 despite shocks on the most firm setting. Its not an M3, or XF, but thats OK with me.

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  Major Improvements! - 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By abacomike - March 31 - 12:08 am

  I owned a 2014 CLS 550 but the 2016 CLS 400 is a major advancement in technology and performance. The NAV/DATA screen is huge and well positioned. The mouse controller is more functional and a bit more complex but once youve played with it for a time, it becomes second nature. Fuel economy is superior 20/30 compared to the V8. The 3.0 V6 twin turbo is almost as fast as the V8. I bought the staggered 19" multi spoked wheels with ultra high performance summer tires. Outstanding balance, handling and cornering. This is my first Designo Diamond White Metallic car - very rich looking and very visible at night. Transmission is smooth and responsive and cornering, handling, acceleration and stopping distance are superior. Remember, this is a 4-door coupe so rear seat room is limited, however front seating is luxurious and very comfortable. Exterior visibility is excellent to the front, but limited to the rear due to sloping roofline and small rear window. Car comes with rear camera which is essential when backing up. My car has Premium 1 & 2 Pkgs., rear spoiler, wheel locks, Illuminated Star, sport steering wheel (flat bottom), Lane Tracking and Blindspot Monitors, and light interior leather with black carpeting and headliner. Mirrors fold in automatically. The audio system is the best Ive ever heard in a car and you can connect iPhone to audio system using USB cable in console. It acts like an iPod and charges the phone at the same time. The new dash screen is HD - amazing Traffic and Weather displays. This is a more "personal" vehicle rather than a family vehicle. The new LED front lights are amazing and light up the road. They are adaptive and have auto-adjusting bright lights. I love the car - a big improvement over 2014z

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  Great all around car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Scott Price - January 22 - 2:16 pm

  I have owned my CLS55 for four months. I had very high expectations for this car having owned other higher end high performance vehicles. The car has surpassed all of my expectations. I am 61" and dont have any problem getting in or out of the vehicle which I read might be a problem. I have sat in the back seat for extented periods of time and found it very comfortable. The performance on the car is amazing. The dash layout is extremely functional. The trunk is large. This is the ultimate family of four car. My wife who historically has had no interest in cars but has owned Range Rovers, 7 series Bimmers, M Bimmers and a CLK Cab. absolutely loves every aspect of this car.

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  My Dream Car! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Donna - December 26 - 12:43 pm

  I wanted to buy my dream car, a special car that I would love to drive for a few years and would still be great looking. I researched the web extensively, test drove more cars than I ever did before, and decided on the CLS, with the AMG package. When I first saw it, it made my heart skip a beat! I have driven 3 Cadillac STSs, a SAAB 900 turbo, went conservative with a Volvo S80 twin turbo, but this car is special. I love power and good looks and this car is awesome. I cant drive it without a smile coming to my face.

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  Its soooo sweet - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Mercedes Loyalist - November 18 - 3:13 am

  Ive only had my CLS500 about a month. It really does turn heads! I have people signal me to roll down my window at intersections just to tell me what a beauty the car is. Traded in a E320 after 2-years and have never been happier with my decision. This car is awesome.

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  Love my car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By gigi farrell - November 17 - 8:33 pm

  I love everything about this car ...except the location of the cup holder....that is just in the wrong place. But everything else is so great I can forgivr that..The pick up is fantastic, it is comfortable. It just feels good....and the attention it recieves doesnt hurt either.

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  Coupe/Sedan Combo - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Factoid Junkie - November 1 - 7:43 pm

  Fabulous drive - handling is terrific - interior appointment sumptuous - love the sound system - keyless go is a must - unanticipated extra in the changing hydraulics - Nappa leather is soft!

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  Fun to drive sports sedan - 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By lion_king - October 9 - 7:10 am

  Before I chose my 2009 CLS-550 with AMG package, I test drove a 2009 Jaguar XF. XF is a nice looking car but the 1st minute I got into CLS-550, I knew that this is the one. CLS-550 has superior interior design, very comfort ride (both locally and on highway), its eyes-catching exterior makes CLS-550 no comparison in its class. Fun to drive.

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  Numerous Problems! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Mica - October 4 - 3:10 pm

  I have had my CLS500 w/ AMG sport package, keyless go, satellite radio etc. for going on 8 months and it has been in the shop numerous times already. On average, once every 2 weeks and one time for more than a week.