Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Mercedes CLS review - Engines, performance and drive

Elegant, comfortable and quick, the CLS is a relaxing cruiser, but don’t expect much fun behind the wheel

Engines, performance and drive rating

4.1

How we review cars
Find your Mercedes CLS
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The CLS might look sleeker and sportier than an E-Class saloon but that doesn’t necessarily make it more engaging to drive. As the cars share the same platform there are many similarities to how they both feel behind the wheel – mainly the experience proves relaxing and comfortable.

To get the best out of the CLS you have to take it easy; it’s a large, heavy car and doesn’t manage its weight particularly well if you begin to drive quickly though corners. It’s best to set the car in its softest setting let the air suspension take the edge off rutted roads and the powerful engine propel you along effortlessly. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

The CLS 450 is the most powerful of the standard models (the AMG 53 tops the range) using a 362bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine. Clever 48v mild hybrid tech is also incorporated, which adds 22bhp and 250Nm of torque to boost performance under hard acceleration.

Although the petrols are quicker on paper, the diesel models feel just as quick on the road thanks to their superior torque output. The steering on all variants is quite vague and light, and while that doesn’t do anything to improve the car’s sporty nature, it does add to the sense of refinement and luxury. 

Three driving modes Comfort, Sport and Sport+ alter the engine response, steering weight and ride quality. In a car which is all about luxury it seems a bit unnecessary and alloy wheels which start at 19 inches means the ride can be a little firm at times. 

Engines, 0-60 acceleration and top speed

The quickest model in the CLS range is the AMG 53. Its 429bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine is capable of firing it from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds. However, the CLS 450 isn’t too far behind, its 362bhp motor covers the same benchmark sprint in 4.9 seconds. 

• Best company cars on sale

Four-cylinder diesel engines are expected to arrive in the CLS next year, but for now the diesel range is made up of punchy six-cylinder motors. The 350d and 400d use the same 3.0-litre engine but produce 282bhp and 335bhp respectively. That translates to 0-62mph times of 5.7 and 5.0 seconds. All models are limited to a155mph top speed. 

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £3,331 off RRP*Used from £9,600
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £8,094 off RRP*Used from £13,199
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,075 off RRP*Used from £14,448
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £1,676 off RRP*
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price
BMW X7 - front

Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price

German firm’s flagship SUV could never be called cheap but it is exceptional value at £735 a month – making it our Deal of the Day for Sunday 27 April
News
27 Apr 2025
New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645
Kia PV5 Cargo on display at Commercial Vehicle Show - front 3/4

New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645

All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles
News
30 Apr 2025