Mercedes-Benz CLS
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a luxury saloon that turns heads wherever it goes? The Mercedes-Benz CLS might be exactly what you’re looking for. This four-door coupe combines the practicality of a traditional saloon with the striking styling of a sports coupe. It’s the car for people who want to make a statement without compromising on comfort or technology.

From the moment you see it, the CLS commands attention. Its sweeping roofline and muscular stance give it a presence that conventional saloons simply can’t match. The CLS pioneered the four-door coupe segment, inspiring rivals like the Audi A7 and BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. But Mercedes continues to lead the pack with sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology. Step inside and you’re greeted by an interior that feels more like a luxury lounge than a car cabin.

Driving the CLS is an effortlessly refined experience. The engines are powerful yet smooth, making both city driving and motorway cruising feel relaxed and composed. It handles with surprising agility for such a large car, yet never loses that sense of luxury and comfort. The CLS is a car that makes every journey feel special, whether you’re heading to a business meeting or a weekend getaway.

What's the Mercedes-Benz CLS Like to Drive?

The Mercedes-Benz CLS offers a range of sophisticated engines designed for refined performance rather than outright speed. The entry-level CLS 350 delivers around 280 horsepower from its smooth 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, providing brisk acceleration and effortless overtaking. For those wanting more power, the CLS 400d features a silky 3.0-litre diesel straight-six that produces 330 horsepower, achieving 0-60 mph in just 5.1 seconds while maintaining impressive fuel economy.

Where the CLS truly excels is in its driving refinement. The steering is perfectly weighted and accurate, giving you confidence on winding country roads while remaining light enough for city manoeuvring. The adaptive suspension smooths out road imperfections beautifully, yet provides enough control to handle spirited driving with composure. This luxury saloon delivers a driving experience that’s both engaging and relaxing, making it ideal for long-distance touring or daily commuting in supreme comfort.

Inside the Mercedes-Benz CLS: Comfort & Features

Step inside the CLS and you’re immediately struck by the quality and sophistication on display. The cabin is a masterclass in luxury design, featuring premium leather upholstery, real wood trim, and brushed aluminium accents throughout. The dual-screen MBUX infotainment system dominates the dashboard, providing crisp graphics and intuitive controls. Every surface feels solid and well-crafted, from the satisfying click of the indicator stalks to the smooth operation of the climate controls.

The front seats are exceptionally comfortable, offering multiple adjustment options and excellent support for long journeys. The cabin is remarkably quiet at speed, with excellent sound insulation creating a serene environment. Standard equipment includes smartphone integration, premium audio systems, and advanced driver assistance features. The ambient lighting system allows you to personalise the interior mood, while the panoramic sunroof adds to the airy, spacious feeling that belies the CLS’s coupe-like exterior proportions.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS successfully achieves its goal of combining coupe style with saloon practicality. It offers a genuinely distinctive alternative to conventional executive cars, with stunning looks that never fail to turn heads. The interior quality is exceptional, creating a luxurious environment that makes every journey feel special. On the road, it delivers smooth, refined performance that’s perfectly suited to its grand touring character.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Mercedes-Benz CLS Expensive to Run?

As a premium luxury saloon, the CLS comes with running costs to match its upmarket positioning. The diesel engines are the most economical choice, with the 400d achieving real-world fuel economy in the high 30s to low 40s MPG. The petrol engines are less frugal but still reasonable for their performance, typically returning around 30-35 MPG in mixed driving. Insurance premiums will be higher than mainstream alternatives due to the car’s high value and powerful engines.

The initial purchase price reflects the CLS’s position as a flagship model, commanding a significant premium over conventional saloons. However, Mercedes has improved reliability in recent years, and the CLS benefits from comprehensive warranty coverage. Servicing costs are higher than mainstream brands but reasonable for the luxury segment. The strong residual values help offset the higher purchase price, and flexible car finance options make ownership more accessible for those who appreciate the finest automotive engineering.

Mercedes-Benz CLS Practicality & Boot Space

For such a stylish coupe-inspired design, the CLS is surprisingly practical. The 520-litre boot is genuinely spacious, easily accommodating multiple large suitcases or a weekly shopping trip. The rear seats fold down to extend the cargo area when needed, making it possible to transport longer items. Inside the cabin, you’ll find numerous storage compartments for everyday items, including deep door pockets and a generously sized centre console.

The rear seats are where the coupe styling demands some compromise. While the space is adequate for two adults on shorter journeys, the sloping roofline reduces headroom compared to a conventional saloon. The wide opening doors and relatively high seating position make access easier than you might expect. For couples or small families who prioritise style alongside practicality, the CLS strikes an excellent balance, especially when compared to other used Mercedes cars in the range.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS stands out in the luxury saloon market by offering something genuinely different. It packages Mercedes’ renowned build quality, cutting-edge technology, and refined driving dynamics into a uniquely stylish four-door coupe body. While it may not offer the rear space of a conventional saloon or the fuel economy of a smaller car, it excels in the areas that matter most for luxury car buyers: style, comfort, and prestige.

You choose the CLS because you want a car that makes a statement. Its distinctive looks, sumptuous interior, and smooth performance make it perfect for those who appreciate automotive artistry. It’s equally at home cruising the motorway or navigating city streets, always delivering that special feeling that comes with driving something truly desirable. For anyone seeking luxury on the used market, the CLS represents exceptional value.