The Mercedes-Benz CLS-class has a swept-back shape that gives it undeniable gravitas compared to more traditional luxury sedans. Based on the Mercedes E-class, the CLS wears the somewhat confusing “coupe” label, despite the obvious fact that it has four doors. Blame the German automaker’s marketing department, though credit its engineering team for giving the CLS the performance to match its aggressive exterior. There are three choices of engine, along with optional all-wheel drive to give the CLS added grip as needed. There are drawbacks that come with this form-before-function approach, however. Passenger headroom in the second row is compromised and the trunk is relatively small for a vehicle this size.

The CLS range gains a nine-speed automatic transmission, versus the seven-speed used previously. Other than this mechanical refresh, changes to the CLS are limited to a few new color and trim updates.

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The CLS comes in three main trims: the base CLS400, mid-range CLS550, and top-of-the-line AMG CLS63 S (reviewed separately). All except the AMG variant – which comes standard with Mercedes 4Matic all-wheel drive hardware – are offered in your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive configuration. Powering the CLS400 is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that delivers a stout 329 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Under the hood of the CLS550 you’ll find a twin-turbocharged 4.7-liter V-8 that serves up 402 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, and which works in cooperation with the same nine-speed gearbox found in the CLS400. While every version of the CLS has acceleration that ranges from quick to scary fast, the ride and handling are tuned more to comfort and luxury, versus the ultimate in handling agility. The CLS gets around corners without any problem, and the standard air suspension keeps it stable and easily absorbs bumps and broken pavement. Just keep in mind, at its core this Mercedes remains more of a refined cruiser than a tire-burning bruiser.

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

The cabin of the CLS is brimming with high-quality materials and is a reminder of why this Mercedes carries such as steep price tag. Standard features include leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, multi-color ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control. There is plenty of room in the front, and the bucket seats are extremely supportive during long stints behind the wheel. Space in the second row isn’t bad, but headroom could be an issue for taller adults, due to the steeply sloped roofline. Another downside of this design limitation is the CLS's cargo-toting capability. The trunk measures in at a cozy 11 cubic feet in capacity.

An 8.0-inch infotainment screen running Mercedes’ COMAND interface is standard on the CLS. This system comes with satellite radio, navigation, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon stereo, and all-important Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A CLS owner also gets the Mercedes mbrace telematics system, which allows for remote vehicle access, software updates, and diagnostic checks via smartphone or computer.

For more information about the Mercedes-Benz CLS-class‘s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.