A Variation That Should Exist

Although formally a four-door sedan, the car that has become familiar in town, as its name suggests, is positioned as a coupe within Mercedes-Benz: the “CLS Class.”





Based on the CLS, a wagon is crafted. This car was not born from a simple whim; I believe it is the realization of a concept that Mercedes itself has long nurtured. Above all, the name “Shooting Brake” seems to tell that story.



The shooting brake is originally a variation of car that originated in Britain. For aristocrats and the wealthy, hunting was both a leisure activity and a social event, requiring a vehicle that could transport slender rifle cases and hunting dogs. However, it did not require something as elaborate as a four-wheel-drive vehicle to accommodate them. By restyling the rear half of a luxurious two-door coupe body into a wagon-like form, it was thought that these needs could be smartly met. That is where it all began.



In other words, for Mercedes, creating a wagon based on the CLS coupe does not go against the spirit of the shooting brake. On the contrary, it is likely a variation that should exist. In fact, this styling concept was unveiled to the world back in 2008, when the first-generation CLS was still in production.

Evaluating the Wagon Conversion

The "CLS Shooting Brake" is only 15mm longer than the regular "CLS (CLS Coupe)" in overall length, a difference that can be considered negligible. However, due to the design of the glass area, which emphasizes its low profile, the rearward visibility is not commendable for a wagon. It is appreciated that "Parktronic" and a rearview camera are standard equipment.



The materials, which are also water-resistant, are combined with aluminum rails with rubber anti-slip strips, demonstrating attention to both appearance and usability. While the elaborate finish suggests a high price, given the "Shooting Brake" name, a highlight dress-up is certainly desirable.

“Sporty” with Substance

The standard suspension features coil-over struts at the front, similar to the "CLS Coupe," while the rear is equipped with an auto-leveling air suspension multi-link system to accommodate varying loads. The dampers are the selective type, as in the coupe. Adding the AMG Sports Package provides the "AIRMATIC" system with four-wheel independent variable and adjustable ride height.



While the European market offers a lineup of four engine variations for the CLS Shooting Brake – two diesels and two gasoline engines, with 4MATIC all-wheel drive available for the gasoline models – Japan is scheduled to receive the FR gasoline model "CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY Shooting Brake" and the 4MATIC model "CLS 550 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY Shooting Brake." These will be joined by the "CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake," making for a three-model lineup.

The performance of the AMG model goes without saying, but even the 550 4MATIC boasts a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 5.3 seconds, comparable to top-tier sports cars. With a top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h for all models, this fully supports its sporty image.

A Superb Harmony of Elegance and Utility

Due to production constraints, the 4MATIC model was not available for the test drive, but we were able to sample all the engine variations planned for the Japanese market.



To put it simply, not only is there no dissatisfaction with the performance, but the "350" model's agile handling, thanks to the low mass of its V6 engine, felt most in tune with the Shooting Brake's character.



Nevertheless, what is impressive about the CLS Shooting Brake is its composed ride. If you don't actively seek it, it won't reveal its sporty side, effortlessly handling the road, driving straight and true, and delivering its occupants to their destination.

Its ride comfort, which maintains a consistently flat upper body through exquisite suspension control, is known as the "Mercedes Ride," and this quality is certainly inherited by this car. Sound insulation in the rear, due to the wagon conversion, is also impeccable, making the difference from the CLS Coupe virtually imperceptible.



A sports sedan that combines the elegance of a coupe with the utility of a wagon. While this description might sound overly ambitious and unfocused, the CLS Shooting Brake masterfully harmonizes both aspects. Coupled with its fresh market appeal, it is virtually guaranteed to become a new flagship model for Mercedes.