2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review
The CLS is a new line of luxury cars that first debuted in 2004. Featuring a unique design, the CLS is a sedan that looks like a coupe. It shares many of the same underpinnings as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The CLS is primarily a European car, with only about 10,000 being imported annually.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is one of the most attractive vehicles on the market. Its bold curves are only matched by its equally powerful engines. However, you’ll pay a premium for style, as the very similar E-Class costs quite a bit less.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the CLS 4.5 stars for overall mechanical quality, and 4 stars for design quality. No major problems or recalls have been issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, active head restraints, and stability control are standard. Also standard is PreSafe, which predicts crashes and adjusts the car to better protect passengers.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Extremely stylish
+ Sharp handling
+ Powerful engines
Cons
- No AWD
- Doesn’t offer much more functionality than the E-Class
- Sleek style means reduced visibility
Head-To-Head Competition:
The 2008 Audi A8 includes AWD and a moonroof, but costs almost $4,000 more and lacks 30 hp. The 2008 BMW 5 Series 550i costs over $8,000 less, but lacks a CD changer and about 20 hp. The 2008 Lexus LS 600h easily bests the CLS with AWD, DVD player, moonroof, 50 more hp, and five more miles to the gallon. It also costs nearly $40,000 more.
What Others Are Saying:
“Now, all that said, I’m more about practicality than style, as anyone who has ever seen my wardrobe will attest. The E-Class is common to the point of blending in, but the CLS is truly unique, bordering on exotic — and as exotic cars go it’s well equipped and pretty reasonably priced. Despite being in its third year, the CLS550 still draws stares — some admiring, some jealous, some resentful. I guess that’s the price you pay for showing off.” – About.com
“The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class interior is richly appointed in leather and wood. Although the low roofline and high beltline make for a sporty exterior, they impair outward visibility.” – Forbes
“And that’s why the underlying message rings true: the CLS is something new. It’s sedan as sex object, a sculpted, sultry redefinition of the premise that sedans, no matter how fast, are restrained by the dictates of four-door practicality, and that’s an idea original enough to stand on its own.” – Automobile Magazine
Read more about the 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class at the Mercedes-Benz manufacturer web site.
