A Return to Elegance: The CLS

The Mercedes-BenzCLSis a landmark model that established the four-door coupe trend in the automotive world. The third-generation model is equally impressive, returning to the concept of the first generation introduced in 2005 with a style that emphasizes elegance.

When you think of the CLS's appeal, the first thing that comes to mind is its personal feel, as if designed primarily for the front occupants, despite having four doors. It's the perfect car for users who find the S-Class or E-Class tooS-ClassorE-Classtoo "heavy."

Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC

The new CLS has been faithfully redesigned to embody the four-door coupe concept. While the second generation included a Shooting Brake model with a tailgate, the development team wanted to make the styling's intent clearer.

"While the Shooting Brake and some other variants were popular, some buyers treated it as a station wagon, leading to complaints about insufficient cargo space. That's why we decided to return to the original concept for the third generation."

Marijan Čelig, who was in charge of the overall design, shared this with us during an interview at the press event.

The new CLS also heralds a new era in Mercedes-Benz design, featuring a reverse-sloping front end known as the "shark nose" and slim, almond-shaped headlights.

The body, measuring 4,988mm long, 1,890mm wide, and 1,435mm high, is not small by any means. However, the car feels compact and doesn't convey its actual size.

A Newly Developed Engine That Embodies Evolution and Return

Another compelling aspect of the new CLS is its performance. I had the opportunity to drive it extensively around Barcelona, including city streets, mountain roads, and highways, and the new engine and handling were remarkably impressive.

Part of the secret to its performance lies in the new powertrain: a 3-liter inline-six engine found in the new CLS 450.

Mercedes-Benz has returned to inline engines, recognizing their advantages in space and combustion efficiency. A significant feature is the addition of the ISG system.

ISG stands for "Integrated Starter Generator," which, as the name suggests, handles engine starting. Additionally, it utilizes an electric motor to boost acceleration.

Engines inherently have a slight delay in generating torque from a standstill. The ISG compensates for this with the motor's torque.

Mercedes-Benz calls this "EQ Boost," but it's not an entirely novel concept. What is innovative is that while most such motors are belt-driven, the company uses gears for greater precision. It's a mechanically sophisticated solution.

Furthermore, it is equipped with an electrically driven supercharger and a twin-scroll turbocharger. This setup produces a maximum output of 270 kW (367 hp) and a peak torque of 500 Nm.

A Depth of Capability That Covers All Driving Scenarios

It is indeed a remarkably powerful engine. From very low RPMs, it delivers abundant torque with a smooth, engaging rev range.

The synergy between the electric motor, supercharger, and turbocharger is superb. There is no perceptible drop in torque.

From the very low RPMs at startup to near the redline, the response to accelerator input is sharp across the entire range, allowing the driver to feel a strong sense of unity with the vehicle.

Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+

The firm suspension and roll control ensure that the car remains stable through corners, without feeling unsettled. Its agility in accelerating into the next turn is akin to that of a sports car.

Conversely, when you want a relaxed drive on the highway, it remains comfortable even in Sport mode. It offers a refined and luxurious ride.

Typically, cars have distinct characters, either "sporty" or "calmly elegant." However, Mercedes offers a taste of everything. The CLS is no exception, providing a deeply satisfying driving experience that encompasses all scenarios.

I also had the chance to drive the Mercedes-AMG CLS 53. This model features a tuned 3-liter inline-six engine producing 320 kW (435 hp) and 520 Nm. The suspension is slightly firmer, and the steering is quicker, offering a highly engaging and direct driving feel.

Under the hands of Mercedes-AMG, the sporty character of the six-cylinder engine truly shines. Revving it to high RPMs reveals the quality of its engineering.

The handling becomes more "on-rails," while the braking power increases yet remains finely controlled, allowing you to experience the pure joy of the car responding precisely to your intentions.

The interior is also very comfortable. The rear seats provide ample space for two 175cm tall adults to sit comfortably. It's a model that embraces the new era while ensuring solid functionality.