The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS came out in November 2017, so the time was ripe for some modernization. What’s new and exciting?
Starting on the outside, there is a new front bumper with a splitter and reshaped air intakes, a grille sporting a 3D pattern, a rear bumper with a diffuser, new wheels, and a blue paint. AMG Line gets its own share of mods, and all versions enjoy a broader selection of interior trims along with capacity-based sensor buttons on the steering wheel.
Customers in Europe will be getting a new specification named CLS 300 d 4Matic, which borrows its 2.0-liter diesel turbo rated at 265 PS (261 hp / 195 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) from the new C-Class. A 48-volt starter-generator assists the main engine with 20 PS (20 hp / 15 kW) and 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) of its own. Getting from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes 6.4 seconds, the top speed remains clamped at 250 km/h (155 mph), and fuel consumption averages on 5.5–5.8 liters per 100 km.
The diesel-powered CLS 200 d and CLS 400 d 4Matic specs remain unchanged, while the 350 d spec leaves the lineup for good.
All petrol specs, including CLS 350, CLS 450 4Matic and CLS 53 4Matic+, remain available. Inline-six engines now benefit from a starter-generator built into nine-speed automatic transmission.
Those quick enough to order a Limited Edition CLS will get special décor and equipment. The run is limited to 300 units.
Sales in Europe will begin later this month, whereas customers in the USA will have to wait until 2022.