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Mercedes-Benz CLS

The independent definitive Mercedes CLS video review
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    By Jonathan Crouch

    The MK3 model Mercedes CLS is a four-door coupe that offers a more desirable alternative to that full-sized executive saloon you might have been considering. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at the revised version.

    Ten Second Reviewword count: 61

    The Mercedes CLS was the original 'Gran Turismo'-style four-door coupe model in the full-sized Executive segment and its always been the only choice if you only want four doors in a model of this sort. This third generation version reprised much of the style of the original and showcases the brand's most cutting-edge engine technology. Particularly in this lightly updated form.

    Backgroundword count: 188

    There are some cars that don't need to try very hard to justify their place in the overall scheme of things. Other rivals might do things better when you examine the numbers, but this rare cadre of vehicles thrive merely because they're beautiful things to own. On the face of it, there's nothing a Mercedes-Benz CLS does that's significantly superior to a garden-variety E-Class, but just look at the thing. It's a car most would love to own. The first generation CLS appeared in 2004 and lasted for six years, pioneering the 'Gran Turismo' part of the executive segment later taken up by five-door rivals like the Audi A7 Sportback and the BMW 5 Series GT. The second generation CLS model launched in 2010 didn't look quite as extreme, but was better in virtually every other regard. The pace of development at Mercedes is utterly breathtaking and many of the systems developed for the latest C, E and S-Class models found their way into this MK3 model CLS-Class line up when it was launched in 2018. A light update in mid-2021 kept this car looking and feeling current.

    Driving Experienceword count: 227

    As expected, both the 300d and 400d CLS models both come with the in-line six-cylinder diesel engine that Mercedes first launched in later versions of the last generation S-Class saloon. It produces 265hp and 550Nm of pulling power in the 300d and 330hp and 700Nm of torque in the 400d. The 300d variant can sprint from rest to 62 mph in 6.4 seconds, while the 400d takes five seconds. Both have an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. The Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 features a six cylinder petrol unit putting out 435hp and 520Nm using the brand's clever EQ Boost technology, includes a 48 volt inline starter generator offering an extra 22hp boost for overtaking. It can travel from standstill to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 155mph. 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive comes as standard across the range. More technology is provided by the optional autonomous driving set-up that when activated, allows the car to pretty much drive itself, working with the adaptive cruise control and active steering systems to keep this CLS rolling in its chosen lane at any chosen speed up to 130mph. All models get 9-speed auto transmission and Mercedes' 'DYNAMIC SELECT' driving modes system. Twisting secondary roads don't really sit in this car's comfort zone - the steering's not especially feelsome but the brilliant ride quality and superb refinement offer ample compensation.

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    Category: Luxury Saloons and Estates

    Performance
    80%
    Handling
    80%
    Comfort
    80%
    Space
    70%
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