Mercedes-Benz CLS C219

CLS in brief

The CLS is built on E-Class technology but has a lower, coupe-like body and frameless door windows. In the second generation (C218), there was also an estate version – the CLS Shooting Brake. Production of the CLS ended in 2023.

You choose this car for its looks, comfort and powerful engines. It's less practical than the E-Class: the low roof means less headroom in the rear seats, and it's harder to get in. Earlier generations are usually four-seaters, with the five-seater CLS becoming standard only in the third generation (C257).

Which generation to choose

C219 (2004–2010) – the original and elegant, but most cars have high mileage, and maintaining old luxury tech is expensive. It's worth choosing only with a clear service history.

C218 (2011–2018) – the most popular generation in the used market: more modern tech and more economical engines. Cars updated in 2014 got new headlights (often Multibeam LED), a larger multimedia screen, and some engines got a 9-speed automatic gearbox.

C257 (2018–2023) — a five-seater with a modern interior (often featuring two large screens), new inline six-cylinder engines, and mild-hybrid technology (EQ Boost). The car was refreshed in 2021.

Engines and transmissions

The C218 is often found with diesel engines like the CLS 250 CDI / 250 BlueTEC (four-cylinder, around 204 hp) and CLS 350 CDI / 350 BlueTEC (V6, around 250–265 hp). Post-facelift, the CLS 220 BlueTEC (around 170 hp) was added. Petrol options include the CLS 350, 400, 500, and the CLS 63 AMG with a 5.5 V8 biturbo engine.

The C257 comes with diesel engines like the CLS 220 d (around 194 hp), CLS 300 d, CLS 350 d, and CLS 400 d (inline six-cylinder, around 286 and 340 hp), four-cylinder petrol engines in the CLS 300 / 350, an inline six-cylinder CLS 450 (around 367 hp), and the Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 (around 435 hp).

All CLS models come with automatic transmissions: the C219 usually has a 7G-Tronic, the C218 a 7G-Tronic, and post-facelift a 9G-Tronic, while the C257 has a 9G-Tronic. Four-wheel drive, 4MATIC, was optional on the C218 but standard on the most powerful C257 versions.

What to check when buying a used CLS

A common issue with V6 diesel engines (CLS 320 CDI, 350 CDI, 350 BlueTEC) is oil cooler leaks between the cylinder banks; also, check the intake manifold and EGR system. For newer BlueTEC and d engines, inspect the AdBlue system and NOx sensors.

If the car has air suspension (Airmatic), check that the body doesn't sag overnight and that the compressor doesn't run for too long. Older C219 petrol V6 and V8 engines (roughly up to 2007) have a known issue with the distribution mechanism's camshaft wear.

Check all electrically controlled functions, gearbox operation, and mileage against the service history – expensive cars are often imported from abroad, and their mileage isn't always genuine. Before buying, it's worth getting a diagnostic check at a Mercedes-Benz specialist service.

Trim levels and versions

CLS versions are usually designated by the engine and equipment packages, with the trim varying by market and year; we list the most commonly encountered versions.

Comparison of third-generation (C257) versions

For most buyers, the best choice is the CLS 400 d 4MATIC: powerful, economical on long journeys and with all-wheel drive. The CLS 220 d is ideal if running costs are the priority, while the AMG CLS 53 is for those seeking sportiness.

Frequently asked questions