History/Description: Capitalizing on the ‘4-door coupe’ trend in the premium car marketplace, Mercedes-Benz launched their CLS for the 2006 model year. Aimed at a buyer after luxury, technology and performance wrapped in a sleek, 4-door package, the CLS-Class went on to be updated into its latest iteration for the 2012 model.
On first-gen CLS models, look for standard V8 power, with 302 horsepower opening the model range in the early CLS 500, which packed a 5.0L V8. From 2007 and on, a 5.5L V8 was made the base engine, delivering 382 horsepower and facilitating a name change to CLS 550.
Look for automatic transmissions on all models. Rear-wheel drive was standard.
Used CLS shoppers should note that an ‘AMG’ designation in a sales ad represents a CLS tuned by Mercedes in-house performance division. The CLS 55 AMG boasted a 469-hp, 5.4L supercharged V8 while the CLS 63 AMG got a naturally-aspirated 6.2L V8 with 503 hp or more. Upgraded chassis components, as well as exclusive visual treatments, are also part of these packages.
Feature content included premium audio, heated leather seats with position memory, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, wood trim, push-button start and plenty more.
What Owners Like: Styling, performance, exclusivity and comfort were all highly rated here. Brand pride, feature content and the added flexibility of a 4-door body were also noted by owners. Most say the CLS-Class has a pleasant overall driving feel that’s well suited to short- and long-distance travel.
What Owners Dislike: Blind spots, a stiff ride, limited headroom and rear-seat legroom were among the most common CLS complaints. Some wish for better mileage, too – and virtually all report that the wide body, long hood and low seating position can make parking an intimidating experience.
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| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 (Photo: Auto123.com) |
On first-gen CLS models, look for standard V8 power, with 302 horsepower opening the model range in the early CLS 500, which packed a 5.0L V8. From 2007 and on, a 5.5L V8 was made the base engine, delivering 382 horsepower and facilitating a name change to CLS 550.
Look for automatic transmissions on all models. Rear-wheel drive was standard.
Used CLS shoppers should note that an ‘AMG’ designation in a sales ad represents a CLS tuned by Mercedes in-house performance division. The CLS 55 AMG boasted a 469-hp, 5.4L supercharged V8 while the CLS 63 AMG got a naturally-aspirated 6.2L V8 with 503 hp or more. Upgraded chassis components, as well as exclusive visual treatments, are also part of these packages.
Feature content included premium audio, heated leather seats with position memory, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, wood trim, push-button start and plenty more.
What Owners Like: Styling, performance, exclusivity and comfort were all highly rated here. Brand pride, feature content and the added flexibility of a 4-door body were also noted by owners. Most say the CLS-Class has a pleasant overall driving feel that’s well suited to short- and long-distance travel.
What Owners Dislike: Blind spots, a stiff ride, limited headroom and rear-seat legroom were among the most common CLS complaints. Some wish for better mileage, too – and virtually all report that the wide body, long hood and low seating position can make parking an intimidating experience.
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| 2008 Mercedes CLS 63 AMG (Photo: Rob Rothwell) |