A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.2
Comfort & Interior
4.6
Running Costs
3.4
Practicality
3.7
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a luxury saloon that combines striking design with executive comfort? The Mercedes Benz CLS Class delivers exactly that with its distinctive four door coupe styling and premium German engineering. This sophisticated executive saloon sits in the luxury segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, technology, and refinement that sets it apart from traditional saloons. The CLS Class excels with its sleek coupe like silhouette, spacious interior, and advanced Mercedes technology including the latest MBUX infotainment system. Whether you’re considering it against rivals like the BMW 6 Series or Audi A7, the CLS stands out with its bold design language and luxurious cabin appointments. This executive saloon appeals to drivers who want something more distinctive than a conventional three box saloon but still need the practicality of four doors. With flexible car finance options available, the CLS Class represents an excellent choice for those seeking a premium driving experience with head turning style and impressive road presence.
Mercedes Benz CLS Class Performance & Engine Options
The Mercedes Benz CLS Class offers a compelling range of engines that prioritise refinement and smooth power delivery. The entry-level CLS 350 produces around 299 horsepower from its turbocharged V6 engine, providing effortless acceleration that gets you from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. For those seeking more performance, the CLS 450 and AMG variants deliver even more impressive power figures. The engines are engineered for smooth operation, with minimal noise and vibration reaching the cabin.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
3.0L V6 Turbo / 3.0L V6 BiTurbo
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Power Output
299 - 435 bhp
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0-60 mph
5.7 - 4.4 seconds
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MPG Combined
28 - 35 mpg
- Boot Space
- 520 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Mercedes Benz CLS Class?
Step inside the CLS and you’re immediately surrounded by Mercedes’ finest interior craftsmanship. The dashboard features premium leather, polished wood trim, and brushed aluminium accents that create an atmosphere of refined luxury. The dual 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system provide a high-tech focal point. Build quality is exceptional, with every surface feeling solid and well-engineered. The MBUX infotainment system responds to voice commands and touch inputs with impressive accuracy.
The Mercedes Benz CLS Class merges striking coupe-like design with refined German engineering, offering a unique blend of performance and luxury. Its turbocharged V6 delivers smooth, effortless power, with the 350 model hitting 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The cabin excels in comfort and tech, though running costs and practicality lag behind competitors. A compelling choice for those prioritizing style and sophistication over pure utility.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Mercedes Benz CLS Class?
As a premium luxury vehicle, the Mercedes Benz CLS Class comes with accordingly premium running costs. Fuel economy ranges from 28 to 35 mpg depending on the engine choice and driving style, which is reasonable for such a powerful car. Insurance costs will be substantial due to the high value and performance capabilities, typically falling into groups 45-50. Servicing at Mercedes dealerships commands premium pricing, though independent specialists can offer more affordable alternatives.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Mercedes Benz CLS Class
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BMW 6 Series
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Audi A7
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| Starting Price | £55,000 | £52,000 | £54,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 3.0L V6 299hp | 3.0L I6 340hp | 3.0L V6 340hp |
| Power | 299 bhp | 340 bhp | 340 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 seconds | 5.2 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 32 mpg | 34 mpg | 33 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 520 litres | 460 litres | 535 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | MBUX system, Air suspension, Premium interior | iDrive 7, Sport suspension, Connected services | Virtual cockpit, Quattro AWD, Matrix LED lights |
Is the Mercedes Benz CLS Class Practical for Everyday Use?
The Mercedes Benz CLS Class offers impressive practicality for a four-door coupe. The 520-litre boot is generously sized, easily accommodating luggage for extended trips or weekly shopping. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed. Interior storage includes door pockets, cup holders, and a centre console compartment. The distinctive coupe styling does create some compromises, particularly rear headroom due to the sloping roofline.
Absolutely love my CLS. The interior quality is incredible and it drives like a dream. Gets plenty of attention wherever I park it. The only downside is the rear seat headroom, but that’s the price you pay for the stunning looks.
The Mercedes Benz CLS Class stands as a compelling choice in the luxury four-door coupe segment. It successfully blends striking coupe styling with saloon practicality, wrapped in Mercedes’ renowned build quality and cutting-edge technology. The refined driving experience, premium interior, and distinctive road presence make it a special car for daily driving and special occasions alike.