2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review by Cars.com Staff

2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

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2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Starting MSRP $72,000–$95,900

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By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National June 25, 2012

Vehicle Overview

The original Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class revolutionized modern automotive design. Called a four-door coupe, the CLS promised the sporty dynamics of a coupe with a dash of sedan practicality. The CLS is available in two models: the CLS550, which can be had with 4Matic all-wheel drive, and the 518-horsepower high-performance CLS63 AMG. One of its chief competitors is the Audi A7.

New for 2013

There are no significant changes for 2013.

Exterior

The CLS-Class's exterior takes the look up a notch, incorporating elements from the SLS AMG GT supercar including a deep grille and long hood. The profile evokes a sports car rather than a sedan, but the rear has a stubby, teardrop shape. Exterior features include:

  • 18-inch wheels standard, 19-inch optional
  • Power tilt-folding sunroof
  • Bi-xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights
  • Available full-LED adaptive headlights
  • Available rear deck-lid spoiler

Interior

The coupe-like interior has room for four with front bucket seats and two rear seats separated by a full-length center console. There's real wood trim and the seats are finished in standard leather upholstery. Interior features include:

  • Standard Harman Kardon premium stereo
  • Standard Comand system with hard-drive-based navigation 
  • Available heated and ventilated front seats, active massaging optional
  • Available heated steering wheel
  • Available power rear sunshade
  • Optional split, folding rear seats

Under the Hood

The CLS550 is powered by a 402-horsepower, twin-turbo 4.6-liter V-8 engine while the CLS63 AMG features a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8 that belts out 518 hp (550 hp with the AMG Performance Package). Both engines have a seven-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Other mechanical features include:

  • Airmatic adaptive suspension
  • Electromechanical steering
  • Available 4Matic all-wheel drive (CLS550) 
  • Eco start/stop fuel-saving technology (CLS63 AMG)

Safety

Standard safety features include attention assist, mbrace2 in-car communication system, side-impact airbags for the front seats, front knee airbags, side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, an electronic stability system and active front head restraints. Optional safety features include:

  • Side-impact airbags for the rear seats
  • Blind spot warning system and lane departure warning and prevention
  • Collision warning and mitigation system
  • Night vision
  • Backup camera 
  • Front and rear parking sensors


Additional Reviews

Cars.com Expert Reviews

David ThomasCars.com NationalOctober 15, 2011
Cars.com StaffCars.com NationalJune 25, 2012

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