By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National June 25, 2012Vehicle 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 Thomas | Cars.com National | October 15, 2011 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | June 25, 2012 |
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