Item: Used Mercedes-Benz CLS 2005 - 2010
Rating: 4
Author: What Car? Team

What is it like?

Ownership cost

Advice for buyers

Our recommendations

Alternatives

Coupe

Mercedes’ line-up is vast – ranging from the A-Class family hatchback through to staple saloons such as the C-Class and E-Class, and onwards towards multiple SUVs, luxury saloons and even sports cars. Coupés and convertibles are thrown into the mix as well.

As one of the ‘big three’ German brands, Mercedes most often finds itself competing with Audi and BMW but more recently has found itself fending off Jaguar and Volvo, too.

Mercedes models are known for comfort. One example of this is the E-Class, because while the Audi A6 has a plusher interior and the BMW 5 Series handles better, the E-Class is probably the most comfortable for a long motorway journey.

MERCEDES-BENZ

The Mercedes CLS is more of a stylish saloon than a coupe, but it's a superb drive nonetheless

Used Mercedes-Benz CLS 2005 - 2010

If you think the appeal of the CLS means you'll pay through the nose for one, think again; there are plenty of bargain used examples.

Instead, it's the running costs that can sting; drive the AMG version fast and you can pretty much see the fuel gauge sinking. Officially, it's rated at 21.0mpg, but the reality in everyday driving is mid-to-low teens.

You're better off with the 500 (which does a claimed 25.0mpg) or the 28.0mpg 350, but it's the 320CDI diesel that will cross continents most effectively as its 37.2mpg makes it by far the most frugal CLS.

Proper maintenance is vital, but – you've guessed it – costly. <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/mercedes-benz">Mercedes</a> dealers charge a similar hourly rate to <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/jaguar">Jaguar</a> and that makes them pricier than both <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/audi">Audi</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw">BMW</a>. Independent specialists make more sense on a car this old.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

The Mercedes CLS is more of a stylish saloon than a coupe, but it's a superb drive nonetheless


We recommend the basic 350. The 3.5-litre, 268bhp V6 engine hits 60mph in 6.9sec and standard kit includes climate control, cruise control, part-leather trim, CD player and electric windows.

If that's still not enough, you could go for the 500, which gets a 306bhp 5.0-litre V8 and hits 60mph in 6.1sec, or the 224bhp 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, which is just as fast to 60mph as the 350 petrol and has stacks of pulling power.

The range-topping 476bhp 5.4-litre V8 55 AMG is ultra-rapid, hitting 60mph in 4.7sec, although, like the rest of the range, it's restricted to a maximum speed of 155mph. As with the 500, full leather seats are standard fit.

Whatever you're after, it's worth shopping around, because Mercedes offered a host of options for the CLS, including air-suspension. And, if you can, go for a post-2006 model, as safety was revamped then with the addition of Neck-Pro anti-whiplash head restraints and a Pre-Safe system to reduce occupant injury.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes. If rear space is crucial and you’re willing to put up with a less-than-premium badge, the Skoda Superb is tough to beat, while if you want a premium badge on the bonnet then the BMW 3 Series is consistently one of our favourites in this class.

And don't think you're limited to just petrol or diesel-powered choices in this class,&nbsp;because at the top end the Tesla Model 3 is well worth considering for its long range and engaging driving style.

Executive

Cars built before the end of 2005 were subject to a recall to adjust the brake system, so if you're looking at one of these, make sure the work has been carried out.

The problem also affected the 2002-2009 E-Class saloon, the model on which the CLS is based, and a car that has been far from Mercedes-Benz's most reliable. There have been electrical problems, so ensure that all of the many gadgets on the CLS are working correctly.

Interior build quality has also been an issue on the E-Class, but the CLS is generally better in this regard.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Is the Mercedes CLS a coupé or a saloon? And does it really matter when it looks this good?

The price you pay for that style is reduced practicality compared with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/e-class/saloon/review/n17174">E-Class saloon</a> of the same era, on which it's based. Six-footers have to stoop slightly in the back, although there is room for four adults and the boot is large.

Stowage space is good, too, while the interior of the CLS is very nicely finished and the driving position is excellent with a fully adjustable electric driver's seat.

With a chassis that's modified over the E-Class's, the CLS has a sharper, more sporting feel, but not in an overly aggressive way. Most models still provide a comfortable ride and are easy to live with.

Performance, even from the diesel version, is strong, yet it doesn't come at the cost of refinement. This is a civilised and relaxing cruiser.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Used Mercedes-Benz CLS 2005 - 2010 review

Kia Sportage

Toyota Yaris Cross

VW Taigo

Cupra Born

BMW 4 Series Grand Coupé

Nissan Qashqai

Seat Ibiza

https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/6050985/631ca6d8e53b

Available to order now >

site ribbon config

Read the definitive used Mercedes CLS 2005 - 2010 review from What Car?. We tell you what you need to know before you buy.

Is the Mercedes CLS a coupé or a saloon? And does it really matter when it looks this good?,The price you pay for that style is reduced practicality compared with the E-Class saloon of the same era, on which it's based. Six-footers have to stoop slightly in the back, although there is room for four adults and the boot is large.,Stowage space is good, too, while the interior of the CLS is very nicely finished and the driving position is excellent with a fully adjustable electric driver's seat.With a chassis that's modified over the E-Class's, the CLS has a sharper, more sporting feel, but not in an overly aggressive way. Most models still provide a comfortable ride and are easy to live with.Performance, even from the diesel version, is strong, yet it doesn't come at the cost of refinement. This is a civilised and relaxing cruiser. 

Available to order now >

Used Mercedes-Benz CLS 2005 - 2010 review

Mercedes-Benz Cls Cls 220d Amg Line 4dr 7g-tronic

Mercedes-Benz Cls Cls 220 Bluetec Amg Line 4dr 7g-tronic

What's the used Mercedes CLS coupe like?

What Car? has a buying service

Quick search

Tools & services

Legal bits

Information