Mercedes CLS Class Review: Stunning, Effortless Performance

The Mercedes CLS Class offers a captivating blend of striking design and refined, effortless performance, making it a standout choice for those seeking elegance and power in their daily drive. It delivers a luxurious experience with smooth acceleration and agile handling.

When you think of a car that perfectly marries head-turning aesthetics with a driving experience that feels both powerful and incredibly smooth, the Mercedes-Benz CLS Class immediately comes to mind. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just get you from point A to point B; it makes the journey an event. For many, the CLS represents the pinnacle of what a luxury sedan-coupe can be, but understanding its nuances—from performance metrics to luxury features—can be daunting. This guide is designed to demystify the CLS Class, breaking down its stunning design and effortless performance into easy-to-understand insights. We’ll explore what makes this car so special, helping you appreciate its engineering and the sheer joy it brings to the road. Let’s dive into what makes the CLS Class a true masterpiece of automotive design and engineering.

Mercedes CLS Class: A Symphony of Style and Substance

The Mercedes CLS Class has always carved its own path in the automotive landscape. It’s not just a sedan, and it’s not quite a coupe, but something beautifully in between—a four-door coupe that oozes sophistication. From its genesis, the CLS aimed to redefine the traditional luxury car with its dramatically sloping roofline and sleek profile.

Exterior Design: The Art of the Silhouette

The CLS’s exterior is where its “stunning” designation truly shines. Mercedes-Benz designers have consistently refined its signature silhouette, giving it a presence that commands attention without being ostentatious. This latest generation continues that legacy with:

• A profoundly sculpted body that plays with light and shadow.
• The unmistakable “Dropping Line” that flows from the headlights to the taillights.
• A sporty, aggressive front fascia that hints at the power lying beneath.
• frameless doors, a hallmark of the CLS, adding to its coupe-like aesthetic.

It’s a design that feels both timeless and aggressively modern, ensuring that a CLS always looks at home, whether parked in front of a five-star hotel or navigating winding country roads.

Interior Ambiance: Luxury Meets Technology

Step inside the CLS Class, and you’re immediately enveloped in an environment of unparalleled luxury and cutting-edge technology. Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its interiors, and the CLS is a prime example. Expect:

• Premium materials like Nappa leather, open-pore wood trim, and brushed metal accents.
• The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, featuring dual high-resolution screens that blend seamlessly into the dashboard.
• Ambient lighting that can be customized to over 64 colors, creating a unique mood for every drive.
• Ergonomically designed seats offering exceptional comfort and support, essential for long journeys.

The cabin is a sanctuary, a place where luxury appointments meet intuitive technology, making every drive a pleasure.

Effortless Performance: Power and Precision

Beneath its captivating exterior lies a powertrain engineered for “effortless performance.” The CLS Class isn’t just about looking good; it’s about delivering power smoothly and competently, making every acceleration and cornering maneuver a confident experience.

Engine Options: Sophistication in Motion

Mercedes-Benz typically offers its CLS models with a range of sophisticated engines, designed to balance potent performance with refined delivery. While specific offerings can vary by model year and region, common choices include:

Engine Type	Displacement	Horsepower (Approx.)	Torque (Approx.)	Key Characteristic
Inline-6 Turbocharged (e.g., CLS 450 4MATIC)	3.0L	362 hp	369 lb-ft	Smooth power delivery, fuel efficiency
V8 Biturbo (e.g., CLS 53 AMG or previous CLS 550)	4.0L	429 hp+	383 lb-ft+	Potent acceleration, thrilling sound

Many modern CLS models also incorporate mild-hybrid technology, often referred to as EQ Boost. This system uses an integrated starter-generator to provide an extra jolt of electric power during acceleration and to allow for smoother, more efficient start-stop operation. This enhances both the feeling of effortless power and the overall efficiency of the vehicle. You can learn more about Mercedes-Benz’s powertrain technologies and their efficiency benefits on the official Mercedes-Benz Innovation Website.

Drivetrain and Suspension: The Foundation of Comfort

The CLS Class’s performance isn’t just about the engine; it’s about how that power is managed and delivered to the road. Mercedes-Benz employs advanced systems to ensure the ride is both dynamic and comfortable.

• 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive: Standard on many CLS models, this intelligent system constantly monitors driving conditions, distributing torque between the front and rear axles for optimal traction and stability, especially in slippery conditions. This contributes significantly to the car’s confident feel.
• AIRMATIC Air Suspension: Often an option or standard on higher trims, AIRMATIC provides an exceptionally smooth ride by actively adjusting the damping force at each wheel according to the road surface and driving situation. It can also lower the vehicle at higher speeds for improved aerodynamics and stability, and raise it for increased ground clearance when needed.
• Dynamic Select: This system allows drivers to choose from various driving modes (like Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Eco) that alter the throttle response, transmission shift points, steering feel, and suspension settings to match their preference or the driving conditions.

Driving Dynamics: Poise and Agility

Despite its size and luxury appointments, the CLS Class is surprisingly agile. The engineers at Mercedes-Benz have worked meticulously to ensure that the car feels composed and responsive. When you turn the wheel, the CLS reacts with a satisfying directness. The steering provides good feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road without being harsh. In Sport mode, the suspension firms up, the throttle becomes more eager, and the car hunkers down, ready to tackle corners with remarkable composure. It’s this ability to transform from a serene cruiser to a more spirited performer that defines its “effortless performance.”

Technology and Safety: Intelligent Assistance

Mercedes-Benz is a leader in automotive technology, and the CLS Class is a showcase for their innovations, particularly in driver assistance and connectivity. These systems work harmoniously to enhance both convenience and safety.

MBUX Infotainment System

The centerpiece of the cabin is the MBUX system. It’s characterized by its learning capability, recognizing and anticipating your needs. Key features include:

• Voice Control: Activated by saying “Hey Mercedes,” allowing for natural language commands to control navigation, climate, audio, and more.
• Touchscreen and Touchpad Control: Multiple intuitive ways to interact with the system.
• Augmented Reality Navigation: Overlaying navigation directions onto live video from the front camera for clearer guidance.
• Smartphone Integration: Seamless connectivity with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

This system is designed to be both powerful and user-friendly, providing access to a universe of information and entertainment.

Driver Assistance Systems

The CLS Class is equipped with an array of intelligent driver assistance systems that provide support and enhance safety. These systems are designed to reduce driver workload and protect occupants:

• Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC: A sophisticated adaptive cruise control system that maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, can brake and accelerate automatically, and even adapt speed to changing limits.
• Active Steering Assist: Helps keep the CLS centered in its lane on highways by providing gentle steering inputs.
• Active Brake Assist: Can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond.
• Surround View System: Provides a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, greatly assisting with parking and low-speed maneuvers.

These technologies are more than just features; they are integral to the CLS’s promise of confident and secure driving. For more on automotive safety technologies, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides valuable resources on their Official Website.

Performance Variants: The AMG Touch

For those who crave a more exhilarating driving experience, Mercedes-AMG takes the CLS Class to a whole new level. These high-performance variants are engineered to deliver raw power and track-inspired dynamics, while still retaining a degree of the CLS’s signature refinement.

The Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+

The AMG CLS 53 is where the blend of luxury and extreme performance truly comes alive. It typically features a hand-built AMG engine that produces significantly more horsepower and torque than its non-AMG counterparts. Expect:

• A more potent engine tune, often a V8 biturbo, delivering explosive acceleration.
• AMG-tuned suspension and braking systems for enhanced handling and stopping power.
• Aggressive exterior styling cues, including a distinctive AMG grille and quad exhaust tips.
• Performance-oriented interior details, such as AMG sport seats and a performance steering wheel.

The AMG CLS 53 offers a thrilling driving dynamic, transforming the elegant CLS into a supercar-meets-luxury-sedan. It provides access to the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz performance engineering.

Who is the Mercedes CLS Class For?

The CLS Class isn’t for everyone, and that’s part of its allure. It appeals to a discerning buyer who:

• Values Distinctive Design: Those who appreciate automotive art and want a car that stands out from the crowd with its elegant, coupe-like silhouette.
• Seeks Refined Performance: Drivers who desire strong acceleration and agile handling but prioritize a smooth, comfortable, and luxurious ride over raw, track-focused aggression (unless opting for an AMG model).
• Appreciates Cutting-Edge Technology: Individuals who want the latest in driver assistance, infotainment, and connectivity features.
• Desires a Premium Experience: Buyers looking for a luxury vehicle that offers a sophisticated cabin, high-quality materials, and an overall elevated ownership experience.

It’s a car that makes a statement about style, success, and a refined appreciation for automotive engineering.

Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Modern Luxury

The Mercedes-Benz CLS Class stands as a testament to what happens when innovative design meets masterful engineering. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just compete in the luxury segment; it defines a niche, offering a captivating blend of stunning aesthetics and profoundly effortless performance. From its eye-catching silhouette that commands attention to an interior that cocoons occupants in technology and comfort, the CLS consistently delivers a premium experience.

The performance is where the CLS truly distinguishes itself. Whether you opt for the smooth, EQ Boost-enhanced power of the CLS 450 or the thrilling, AMG-tuned capabilities of a higher-performance variant, the driving experience is characterized by its refinement and confidence. The advanced suspension systems, intelligent all-wheel drive, and intuitive driving modes all work in concert to make every journey feel seamless and enjoyable. It’s a car that can be both a serene cruiser for daily commutes and a spirited companion for weekend drives.

For those who appreciate exquisite design, cutting-edge technology, and a driving experience that balances potent capability with luxurious comfort, the Mercedes CLS Class remains an exceptional choice. It’s more than just a car; it’s a statement – a sophisticated expression of automotive art and engineering that continues to captivate drivers worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What makes the Mercedes CLS Class “stunning”?

The CLS Class is considered “stunning” primarily due to its unique and dramatic exterior design. It features a sleek, coupe-like silhouette with a gracefully sloping roofline, frameless doors, and sculpted body panels that create a dynamic and luxurious presence. The interior also contributes with its high-quality materials and advanced technology.

Q2: Is the CLS Class a good car for long road trips?

Absolutely. The CLS Class is designed for comfort and long-distance cruising. Its advanced suspension systems, comfortable seating, refined powertrains, and extensive suite of driver assistance features make it an excellent choice for extended journeys.

Q3: What is EQ Boost in the CLS Class?

EQ Boost is a mild-hybrid system found in many modern CLS models, such as the CLS 450. It uses an integrated starter-generator to provide an electric boost for smoother acceleration, allows for more emission-reducing driving modes, and enhances overall fuel efficiency without compromising performance.

Q4: How does the CLS Class handle compared to a traditional sedan?

Thanks to its sophisticated suspension (like AIRMATIC) and advanced all-wheel-drive systems (if equipped), the CLS Class offers a remarkable balance of comfort and agility. While it provides a plush ride, it can also deliver confident handling and responsiveness when driven more dynamically, especially in sportier modes. It feels more connected than many traditional large sedans.

Q5: Are CLS Class models reliable?

Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including the CLS Class, are generally built to high standards of quality and reliability. However, like any luxury vehicle with advanced technology, they can require more specialized maintenance and may have higher repair costs than non-luxury brands. Consistent adherence to the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for long-term reliability. You can often find owner’s manuals and maintenance guides on the official Mercedes-Benz website.

Q6: What is the difference between the CLS 450 and a CLS AMG model?

The CLS 450 typically features a more comfort-oriented, smooth inline-6 engine with EQ Boost, offering strong performance suitable for everyday luxury driving. AMG models, like the CLS 53, are performance-tuned by Mercedes-AMG and feature significantly more power, sportier suspension, brakes, and aggressive styling, prioritizing exhilarating driving dynamics.