Road testing the Mercedes-Benz CLS 500

By Terry Jackson • Bankrate.com

Mercedes-Benz CLS 500
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On one level, Mercedes-Benz is not the carmaker you think of when it comes to being radical. A Benz is about solidity, about a certain level of panache that exudes style without saying, "Look at me." Yet most Benz buyers choose a car with the three-point star on the hood precisely because they want to send a message to those they pass by. Somehow, Mercedes melds these two contradictory ideals -- conservatism vs. exhibitionism -- in their cars without resorting to overly flamboyant styling.

Then along comes an all-new model like the CLS, which breaks the rule on the way to being one of the most stunningly beautiful Benzes ever built. Simply put, the CLS is a coupe in a four-door body.

Built on the same wheelbase as the E-Class sedan, the CLS is longer and wider on the outside, yet sits about 2.5 inches lower due to the sensually sweeping roofline that mimics the look of a big coupe.

In the cockpit, the CLS has more overall room than an E sedan, yet most of the key dimensions are about equal. The biggest change is that the headroom drops by about a half inch in the front and more than an inch and a half in the rear.
The reduction in front headroom likely won't be missed, but the cutback in rear-seat clearance will certainly limit the ability to transport people much over six feet tall comfortably.

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Nonetheless, the CLS is a perfect answer for well-heeled buyers who need a four-door sedan, yet crave cutting-edge styling and performance.

Introduced last fall, the CLS is available with two engines -- a V6 and a V8 -- in Europe, but U.S. buyers initially get just the V-8 version, called the CLS 500.

Under the hood is the familiar 5-liter V8 that produces 306 horsepower. It is coupled to a new seven-speed automatic transmission. The package propels the 4,100-pound sedan -- OK, coupe-sedan -- to 60 miles per hour in six seconds, which puts the CLS into near sports-car territory.

For those who want more, Mercedes introduced an AMG version at January's auto show in Detroit that soon will be available with a supercharged 5.5-liter V8 that makes a prodigious 469 horsepower -- making the CLS55 a true four-door sports car.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 500
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Even with the base V8, the CLS 500 is about more than just a powerful engine. The chassis uses an electronically controlled air suspension to provide a luxury ride in most highway conditions, yet becomes taut when hard cornering is required. The driver can select the sportier setting manually as well. There is some body roll in extreme conditions, but the CLS drives and handles like a much smaller car.

Also on board is the full-spread of airbag and safety features, including front, side and head airbags.

In the cockpit, the CLS gets the full dose of Mercedes luxury touches, from enough wood veneer to build a log cabin and more than enough leather to anger PETA. The steering wheel has controls for operation of most audio, information and telephone operations. In the center console is a color LCD screen that displays all functions, as well as satellite navigation.

Driving the CLS 500 is one of the most satisfying experiences available. Its V8 is responsive and communicates just enough growl to let the driver know this is no ordinary sedan. The steering is precise and has a linear feel as the assist decreases as speed increases. The four-wheel disc brakes with electronic assist stop the CLS firmly and impart a feeling of confidence.

The major drawback of the CLS 500 is that so few people will ever own one because of its price: $65,620, plus options.

A consolation prize for those who can only watch the CLS pass by: It's one beautiful piece of sculpture mounted on wheels.

Specifications:

Base list price, including delivery charge:	$65,620
Engine:	5-liter V8
Horsepower:	302 @ 5600 rpm
Transmission:	7-speed automatic
Chassis:	Rear-wheel-drive
Basic warranty:	4 years/50,000 miles
Fuel economy:	16/24 mpg EPA est., 19 mpg observed
Special factory lease/finance:	None