The first-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS was introduced back in 2005 as the CLS500 and was considered to be one of the first four-door coupes available for luxury car drivers. Now, it’s no longer a novelty, we’ve seen this style popping up from the Audi A7 and BMW 550i to the Cadillac CTS-V or even the Jaguar XF. The second-generation 2012 CLS550 went to market in 2011 and according to Mercedes-Benz, the CLS-class was produced to combine the "strong, emotive charisma" of a coupe with the "comfort and practicality" of a sedan.
![2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550]( "2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550")
Driving Impressions of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550
The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 looks stylish, classy, and refined. It’s a tad heavier than its previous version, but doesn’t feel that way once you take it on the road. It has some of the strongest safety features of any vehicle on the road today and it’s less expensive than the previous version.
The new CLS is powered by a twin-turbo 4.6-liter V-8 that delivers 402 horsepower and 443-lb.-ft. of torque mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission (up from 382 horses and 391-lb.-ft. of torque from its predecessor). It’s quite fuel-efficient for its size, achieving 17 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
The Mercedes-Benz CLS550 can be driven in comfort mode and in sport mode, though if you’re looking for that faster response when pushing the accelerator and like to feel the full power of the engine, you’ll prefer to drive in sport mode. In comfort mode, you still get the power, but it’s almost as if you’re just driving another Mercedes-Benz. One of the coolest features was the side bolsters that cushion/cuddle you to keep the driver from swaying to the side when making a sharp turn. Now that's luxury.
Having recently test-driven the Audi A7 and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550, we recommend the A7 for those who want a more sporty drive (sport mode vs. sport mode) or a lower price point. Those who prefer a more comfort-driven ride with the option to kick it up a notch here and there will opt for the Mercedes-Benz. Both cars top the list of cars in their class.
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 Safety and Features
The CLS550 is full of standard safety equipment that includes stability and traction control, active head rests, the PreSafe accident avoidance system, and nine airbags. You can also purchase additional safety options including rear side bags, night-vision assist, and a blind-spot/lane departure warning system.
The CLS550 features electrically assisted power steering and Airmatic air suspension. Standard Mercedes safety technology on all CLS coupes includes Pre-Safe collision mitigation system, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist, Attention Assist to warn drivers when they appear drowsy, traction control, and ESP electronic stability control. Optional equipment includes Distronic Plus distance-sensing cruise control with Pre-Safe Braking, Active Blind Spot Assist that provides a warning whenever a turn signal is activated with a car in a blind spot, and Active Lane Keeping Assist that alerts drivers if the car drifts from its lane without the turn signals on.
Shopping for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550?
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS line consists of three models, all powered by new biturbo direct-injection V-8 engines and offering 4MATIC all-wheel-drive for the first time. MSRPs start at $71,300 for the CLS550, $73,800 for the CLS550 4MATIC, and $94,900 for the high-performance CLS63 AMG (not including delivery charges of $875).
If you’re shopping for a new Mercedes-Benz luxury car or SUV, be sure to visit TrueCar.com, where you can find out what other people in your area have actually paid for their new Mercedes-Benz models. At TrueCar.com, you can find the latest, most comprehensive, and unbiased pricing information, as well as complete specifications, trim options, and lock in a price on the best deals on new cars at a TrueCar Certified Dealer in your area.
