2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS Review

Trims

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS trim comparison

CLS 450

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Starting MSRP

$74,000

MPG

Engine

Drive Type

Automatic Emergency Braking

Basic Warranty

Horsepower

Blind Spot System

Surround View Camera

Adaptive Cruise Control

Remote Engine Start

Parking Sensors

Multi-Zone Climate Control

Premium Audio

22 city/30 hwy

3.0L I6 S/C and Turbo

AWD

4 yr / 50k mi

362 hp

Engine Type

Fuel Type

Horsepower

Horsepower RPM

Torque

Torque RPM

Engine Displacement

Engine Configuration

Cylinders

Aspiration

Variable Valvetrain

Valvetrain

Number of Valves

Compression Ratio

Eco Mode

Sport Mode

EPA City Fuel Economy

EPA Highway Fuel Economy

EPA Combined Fuel Economy

Start/Stop System

Regenerative Braking

Gas

Premium Unleaded

362 hp

5500 rpm

369 lb-ft

1600 rpm

3.0 L

Inline

6 cylinder

Supercharged and Turbocharged

Double Overhead

24 valve

10.5

22 MPG

30 MPG

25 MPG

Reviewed by Jaclyn Trop

Overview

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is a luxury sedan with a turbocharged engine and opulent interior. It accelerates quickly and handles smoothly, keeping its composure around corners. Inside, the CLS provides seating for five people. Passengers in the rear may feel cramped due to the car's sloping roofline, but those upfront get plenty of head- and legroom. The CLS comes with many technology and safety features, and it offers plenty of optional equipment as well. Starting at $74,000, the Mercedes-Benz CLS is actually one of the more affordable options in its class. Its closest competitor, the BMW 8 Series, is priced at $86,000. Another alternative to the CLS is the Audi A7 priced from $70,000.

Positives

Powerful and smooth standard engine. Opulent cabin. Easy-to-use infotainment system.

Considerations

Sleek styling results in a tight backseat. Small trunk for a sedan of its size.

Verdict

The Mercedes-Benz CLS merges coupe styling with the practicality of a four-door car, although rear-seat passengers might question how well it blends the two. An ultra-smooth engine and elegant cabin give it a true luxury feel.

What's New for 2022

Mercedes-Benz has consolidated the nameplate's trim levels so that the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS is sold only as a 450 4Matic model. The latest version sees styling upgrades to its grille and bumper design, more options for interior materials, and a new three-spoke steering wheel.

Trims and Pricing

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS is sold in one trim: CLS 450 4Matic.

450 4Matic

Starting at $74,000, the CLS 450 4Matic comes standard with a 362-horsepower six-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and an AMG appearance package. The luxurious cabin is outfitted with high-end leather upholstery and wood trim. Heated front seats, ambient lighting, and a power-sliding sunroof are among the standard features. Options include a high-end Burmester audio system, ventilated seats, massaging front seats, a head-up display, and a power rear sunshade.

Engine and Performance

The Mercedes-Benz CLS delivers a lively ride via a 362-horsepower inline-six turbo engine with the brand's EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. It provides additional horsepower in certain driving situations. The powertrain is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its large size, the CLS zooms from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, which is faster than most rivals. The BMW 8 Series zips to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds using a 335-hp inline-six turbo engine. A smooth, controlled ride makes the CLS a great long-distance cruiser. It can handle spirited driving but is a little too big to feel nimble.

Fuel Economy

The Mercedes-Benz CLS returns Environmental Protection Agency estimates of 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Those are among the best figures in the class. The BMW 8 Series and Audi A7 deliver 22/29 mpg city/highway.

Interior

Inside, the CLS delivers the trademark elegance of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The car's quiet interior is trimmed with top-notch leather and natural wood. With room for five people, the cabin features plush seats and plenty of options, including a heated steering wheel, massaging front seats, and heated rear seats. The CLS' rivals sport similarly luxurious cabins. The BMW 8 Series stands out with its soft Merino leather upholstery and smooth leather finish on its instrument panel. The CLS is roomy in the front, but the back row provides less head- and legroom than the Audi A7. With just 11.9 cubic feet of trunk space, the CLS has one of the smallest trunks in its class.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Mercedes-Benz CLS features a user-friendly MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Users navigate the system via a touchpad controller or voice command. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and HD Radio are standard. Many rivals are similarly equipped. The Audi A7 comes with a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio, as well as a revamped dual-screen infotainment system.

Safety

The Mercedes-Benz CLS has not undergone crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The CLS is well equipped with advanced safety features, including blind-spot assist, crosswind assist, active brake assist, and a parking damage detector. Mercedes-Benz includes its Car-to-X Communication system, which automatically alerts a central notification system if the CLS encounters danger while operating. Optional safety features include a surround-view system, evasive steering assist, congestion emergency braking, and a dashcam.

Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. the Competition

Undeniably elegant, the Mercedes-Benz CLS also displays the markings of a daredevil, with speed, acceleration, and plenty of power. The BMW 8 Series is well matched, with exceptional handling, quick speed, and an attractive cabin that makes it a formidable competitor, even with its higher price tag. The Audi A7 performs well, sports a handsome cabin, and costs about the same as the CLS.

Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. Audi A7

Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. BMW 8 Series

TrueCar Expert Review Methodology

TrueCar works with a select group of automotive industry experts who test-drive nearly 300 vehicles per year. TrueCar's experts grade the vehicles on key attributes including driving dynamics, comfort, interior design, technology, storage, and efficiency. Our experts also judge recent model updates, pricing and value, trims, options, comparable vehicles, and safety assessments (as provided by the NHTSA and IIHS) to inform their recommendations and help car shoppers choose a vehicle that is right for them.

TrueCar also ranks the best vehicles in each category based on a data-driven methodology. Each vehicle is carefully scored using our in-house rating system, which systematically evaluates every car, SUV, truck, and van. Utilizing ALG industry research, consumer surveys, a team of data scientists and vehicle experts, TrueCar provides a unique and useful outlook to help you find the best vehicle for your driving needs.

Owner Reviews

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS Owner Ratings & Reviews

3rd Generation Mercedes-Benz CLS

2019 - 2023

Overall Rating

4.3

Based on

Performance

4.5

Comfort

4.2

Fuel Efficiency

4.1

Safety Technology

4.4

Features

4.4

53%

34%

11%

3%

1 Star

0%

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All reviews

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5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

5.0

Fuel Efficiency

5.0

Safety Technology

5.0

Features

5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

5.0

Fuel Efficiency

5.0

Safety Technology

5.0

Features

5.0

pros

Its exterior and interior appearance. I truly enjoy its performance and gas mileage as well.

cons

The only thing that I miss in this vehicle is touch screen infotainment system.

Submitted by Fred J on --- --- ----|2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS CLS 450 Coupe RWD

5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

5.0

Fuel Efficiency

5.0

Safety Technology

5.0

Features

5.0

pros

A great design that has been enhanced through time.

cons

It’s hard to quibble with this car...a great car at a great price point.

Submitted by Stephen M on --- --- ----|2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS CLS 450 Coupe 4MATIC

5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

5.0

Fuel Efficiency

5.0

Safety Technology

5.0

Features

5.0

pros

The sporty luxurious styling the beautifully crafted interior are my favorite parts of this vehicle.

cons

The outdated COMAND infotainment system.

Submitted by Daniel O on --- --- ----|2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS CLS 450 Coupe

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2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS

Specifications

Engine

Horsepower

MPG

Seating

Cargo Capacity

Basic Warranty

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS Specs & Features

Trims

2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS trim comparison

CLS 450

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Engine Details