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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  My CLS - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Jeff - December 10 - 7:16 pm

  Mercedes has really created yet another piece of art with this machine. Not only does it look good, but handles like a charm and is very comfortable to drive. This car is also very well built. Not the usual creeks and rattles you can sometimes experience with a new car. This one stays solid and rides very smooth. One of the other great things is all the bells and wistles. Theres a button for eveything.

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  Ive been waiting for THIS car! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By mta - December 3 - 3:30 pm

  I knew this beautiful car was coming for about 2 years. When I finally saw it, I had to buy it. It is an amazing car in style & performance. Everyone notices it on the road & it has so many updates over the E320-4 matic I traded in. I did not want another boring looking M.B. I bought the "Launch Edition" which had a list price of $74,500. A limited # of them were produced.

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  Good but could be better - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By BoBoBo360 - November 1 - 5:46 am

  This is a very nice car. Did a very nice job in the interior with the leather stitching and beautiful wood. The seven speed transmission is good for fuel economy and its smooth. Big fat tires even without the sports package. Has ADSII a much better version of the semi air suspension compare to ADS.

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  Smooth and powerful - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Mike from Ashburn - November 1 - 1:16 am

  It has been a great experience thus far. I have had to hang on tightly when occasionally my foot gets too heavy. I didnt expect the engine performance and its been a pleasant surprise. The control is more complex than it has to be (how many menus just to change the light?) But after its all together easy to work with and maintain. Its only been a month so well see if it lives up to the Mercedes reputation for quality.

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  Great car but missing a few things. - 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By hbv2020 - October 22 - 6:17 am

  I have driven my 2013 CLS550 for about one thousand miles. This is my first Mercedes, my previous care being a 2010 Hyundai Genesis. I must say that I am not sure the CLS is worth twice the cost of the Genesis. Here are a few annoyances I have found so far. The exterior rear view mirrors do not fold. That option is only available in Canada. The back up camera has no guide lines. The rear seat passengers can regulate the air flow but cannot change the temperature. Admittedly the CLS has much more power than the Genesis, but it is not easy to regulate. The accelerator seems like an on/off switch, which is not easily regulated for steady acceleration.

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  CLS - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By PR - October 4 - 7:13 am

  My wife and I have had the car now for a month and continue to love it more and more all the time. This is a fabulous car. I love the V8 and the interior is exceptional. Handles very well and is very fast. My only gripe is that you cant get anyone too big in the back seat. Other than that, this car is terrific.

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  Performance and Looks! CLS 550 Review - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By M - September 9 - 8:33 pm

  Really hard to find any faults in this car. Torque and power will surpass just about anything out there. Ordered mine with every option including AMG package. Really finishes off the car. Includes paddle shifters, AMG exhaust, and AMG styled aprons and trim. Put it in Sport 2, turn off the traction control, and put it in manual mode. Thats when you can really see what this car is all about. 18 inch staggered wheels really grip the road and corner effortlessly. MB really has outdone themselves with this years CLS. Can only imagine the power of the CLS63. But this one has plenty!

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  What a car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By sam - August 10 - 11:20 pm

  I had never driven such a car before. Head turning, excellent handling, powerful, beatiful, classy, easy to drive. I own several other cars among them a Ferrari 360 spider. No comparison between these two cars. The Mercedes is much more powerful and easier to drive. What a beast!

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  Love my CLS - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By Gilbert - August 5 - 7:46 pm

  I have been driving my CLS for almost 5 months and I really enjoy it. I test drove the BMW 645 and it was a beautiful car, but I liked the Benzs ride better. The control interface is no more complicated than a Japenese car. Almost 8,000 miles on it and no problems at all.

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  Shockingly Underwhelmed - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
  By trinacria - August 1 - 7:36 am

  Ive owned 10 vehicles over the last 25 years and the CLS550 is unquestionably the biggest disappointment. Bottom line - Ive got an $80,000+ luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles that drives like a 1972 Fiat. Despite being in the shop 3 times in the first 90 days, the vehicle continues to violently rattle and vibrate, the "premium sound system" sounds like a transistor radio, and the "climate controlled seats" are nothing more than a weak fan with an imperceptable effect. Two thumbs down!