2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class: Road Test
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2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $64,900 -$86,600
- Invoice: $60,357 -$80,538
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Our road test for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class help you decide if a 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.7 |
Mercedes says CLS500 accelerates 0-60 mph in 5.9 sec. V8 has ample power for any situation, abetted by smooth, alert 7-speed automatic transmission. No opportunity yet to test CLS55, but test of similar E55 suggests just over 4 sec 0-60.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.6 |
Test CLS500 averaged a relatively frugal 19.0 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Both engines require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.7 |
CLS500 nearly as comfortable as E500, despite lower-profile tires on 18-inch wheels vs. 17s. Impressively unruffled on most any surface.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.1 |
CLS500 feels a bit more agile than E500 on tight, twisty roads, with less apparent cornering lean and the same grippy assurance.
QUIETNESS
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.8 |
As hushed as any 4-dr Mercedes. Little wind noise, only a muted V8 growl at high revs, but moderate coarse-pavement tire thrum.
CONTROLS
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.7 |
Typical Mercedes design, layout with a few odd control icons and a steering-column cruise-control stalk that can be confused with turn-signal lever below. Dashboard screen handles many audio and optional navigation controls, often requiring multiple steps for basic functions. Standard 4-zone climate system has separate front- and rear-seat controls. Cabin satisfies with top-notch workmanship, elegant leather upholstery, genuine wood accents.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.4 |
Low-roof styling gives cozy cabin feel vs. E-Class, pinches driver vision astern and to right-rear, reduces entry/exit ease. Leg room ample, but limited 6-footer head room even with power seats at lowest position. Well-shaped seats hug nicely, seem long-haul restful. Comfort Package's 10-way seats have tacked-on-looking control pod that's difficult to manipulate and looks incongruous.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.5 |
Little head space for those over 5-ft-9. Knee and leg room get tight for adults with front seats pushed well back. Individual seats supportive but set low, which combines with narrow door bottoms to hamper entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4 |
Trunk long and wide, but not very tall; neither is trunk opening, so larger hard-sided suitcases may not fit. Sickle-shaped trunklid hinges don't intrude much, are shielded to help avoid cargo damage. Decent cabin storage, includes large, covered bins front and rear.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.9 |
The CLS500 performs like its E500 sibling, but sacrifices some sedan functionality for a coupelike shape and costs about $7000 more. The high-power CLS55 relates similarly to the E55. Basically, the CLS combines E-Class virtue with dramatic design. For well-heeled shoppers who put a high value on style and can live with limited rear-seat room and cargo space, it's worth a look.
Total Score
| CLS500 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 65 | 61.4 |
Total Score: 65
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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