Mercedes-Benz CLS (2011-2017) Review and Prices

This is the second generation of the CLS and it trades the elegant lines of the first one for an overall sportier and more muscular look. The desirability is arguably stronger than ever thanks to the AMG Line trim which brings AMG looks for nearly half of the price of the CLS 63.

Designed as a sporty alternative to the E-Class, the CLS is good fun to drive despite the intimidating size of the car. Adaptive dampers which can change the ride firmness at the push of a button are standard and limit body roll quite well. The direct steering and smooth-shifting nine-speed auto add to the pleasant driving experience.

Ignoring the bonkers 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol in the CLS 63 model, you get a choice between two diesels and one petrol. Both the CLS 220 d and CLS 350 d are impressively frugal for the performance on offer, while the CLS 400 petrol is silky smooth if not as exciting as the AMG model.

Where the CLS starts falling behind rivals slightly is the interior which is based on the previous generation of the E-Class and as a result comes with a multitude of buttons including a phone number pad. The rest of the cabin is true to Mercedes tradition, furnished in posh materials and seemingly chiselled from one solid piece of interior.

The highly desirable AMG Line trim is the entry-level one and as a result comes with a load of equipment including LED lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, parking sensors, heated front seats and the list goes on and on. The most desirable options are grouped in packs which is very helpful when configuring the car.

The CLS is a lifestyle take on the serious E-Class

Overall, the CLS is a very well-sorted car that has plenty of appeal. Though not quite as graceful as its pioneering predecessor, but the styling is still just as head turning, and the new car is suitably spacious and practical, whilst also offering up good performance and impressive efficiency.

It’s by no means a cheap car to buy, and there are other four-door coupes on sale as well, such as the Audi A7 Sportback and Porsche Panamera. However, the CLS is one of the best all-round executive cars you can buy, and if you’re in the market for such a machine, we definitely reckon it’s worth having a look at.