Used Mercedes-Benz CLS 2005 - 2010 review

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.

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