What’s New in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS?

Giancarlo Perlas June 15, 2020

The new Mercedes-Benz CLS, together with the E-Class Saloon and Estate, is now on sale. With a starting price of 59,386.95 euros, the CLS brings a plethora of updates in its powertrain and technology.

The new CLS and E-Class range models just hit the German market this June, and here are the things that you can expect from the new CLS lineup.

Powertrain

The new CLS is available in four trims, including one AMG version. The range starts with the diesel-fed CLS 220 d with an OM 654 1,950 cc inline-four engine providing 194 hp and 400 Nm of torque. The setup takes the auto from 0-100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds while its top speed is capped at 237 km/h.

The CLS 400 d 4MATIC carries the same power unit as the CLS 220 but with 2925 cc displacement while the power is increased to 330 hp and 700 Nm torque. The added boost lets the vehicle accelerate from 0-100 km/h in five seconds and has a max speed of 250 km/h.

The petrol-fed CLS 450 4MATIC is equipped with the M 256 inline-six engine with 2,999 cc displacement. The output of the car is 367 hp and 500 Nm of torque plus 22 hp and 250 Nm torque from EQ Boost. The numbers propel the unit from 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and it has an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The range-topping Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+ is mounted with the M256 inline-four engine with the same displacement as the CLS 450. However, the total power is raised to 435 hp and 520 Nm of torque. Again, thanks to the EQ Boost, 22 hp and 250 Nm torque are added to the figures. The configuration takes the car from 0-100 km/h in mere 4.5 seconds and its speed is maxed at 250 km/h.

Exterior

In a nutshell, the CLS is the sportier sibling of the mid-size E-Class. It distances itself from the E-Class with its angular design and more aggressive accents. The 2021 CLS is just a subtle update under its third-generation series launched in 2018, so there’s really not much to say on its exterior, except its new Mojave Silver and Cirrus Silver color palettes.

Interior and Tech

The more noticeable changes come from the interior of the CLS. The cabin showcases two large 10.25-inch screens arranged side-by-side, which can be upgraded to 12.3 inches each. The hardware houses the new MBUX software with artificial intelligence that assists the driver through its touchscreen and voice controls. The software has access to the various navigation, safety, and comfort elements of the car.

Standard also in the CLS is the Active Brake Assist, which is an autonomous braking system that helps prevent collisions. More safety features are included in the optional Driving Assistance Package such as the Active Speed Limit Assist that utilizes map data and information from Traffic Sign Assist in maintaining the speed of the vehicle.

Aside from its luxurious leather seats, the comfort of the car’s occupants is enhanced through its new Energizing Coach. It further helps set the mood of the driver and passengers through its different feel-good lighting, music, heating, and massage functions.

Last but not least, the CLS offers the optional Urban Guard Vehicle Protection. It has an anti-theft alarm system, tow-away protection with a visual and audible warning in case of a detected change in position, alarm siren, interior monitoring, and parking collision detection.

Pricing

The new Mercedes-Benz CLS starts at 59,386.95 euros. The value of the car can go as high as 86,352.35 for its AMG CLS 53 model, excluding the optional add-ons.