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2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Full Review
Date Published: 3/05/08
Also in the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review:
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Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Full Review
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2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review
Mercedes-Benz dresses its E-Class sedan in sleekened sheetmetal and revamps the interior to create the CLS. CLS seats four vs. the E-Class's five, and does not offer all-wheel drive or a wagon body style. It comes as the CLS500 with a 302-hp V8 and as the high-performance CLS55 AMG with a 469-hp supercharged V8. The CLS500 has a 7-speed automatic transmission, the CLS55 a 5-speed automatic. Each has a manual shift gate. Steering-wheel shift buttons are optional on the CLS500, standard on the CLS55. Both have an air-spring suspension that adjusts firmness within three driver-selectable modes. Traction/antiskid control is standard, as is antilock braking via Mercedes' "by-wire" control that can adjust brake pressure for each wheel. The CLS55 adds firmer chassis tuning and cosmetic touches by Mercedes' AMG performance division. An AMG Sport Package for CLS500 includes wider tires and aero body trim. Front and rear side airbags and curtain side airbags are standard. So is a full-length center console and twin bucket-type rear seats. Available are Mercedes' drive-dynamic front seats with air bladders that adjust firmness to match cornering force. Also optional are steering-linked bi-xenon headlamps, navigation system, and keyless locking/engine-start with pocket transmitter.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.
Our Best Buys include Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti M. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, Lexus ES 330, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include Lexus GS, Lincoln Zephyr, and Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Our Best Buys include Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti M. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, Lexus ES 330, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include Lexus GS, Lincoln Zephyr, and Mercedes-Benz CLS.
News
More power is the main 2007 news for this high-style Mercedes, courtesy of two engines borrowed from the just-redesigned S-class large sedans. The CLS500 becomes a CLS550 by adopting a 5.4-liter V8 rated at 382, a gain of 80 hp. The high-performance CLS 55 moves to the AMG division's new 6.2-liter V8 to tack on 38 hp for 507 total. In addition, both '07 models get Mercedes' Pre-Safe "anticipatory safety system" and standard Harmon/Kardon audio with CD changer. Otherwise, the CLS is only in its third season, so no basic design changes will occur for a few years yet. One source, however, says a freshening is in store for 2009.
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Rear-seat room |
| Ride/handling | Rear visibility |
| Quietness | |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| 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
Test CLS500 averaged a relatively frugal 19.0 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Both engines require premium-grade fuel.
| 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 nearly as comfortable as E500, despite lower-profile tires on 18-inch wheels vs. 17s. Impressively unruffled on most any surface.
| 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 feels a bit more agile than E500 on tight, twisty roads, with less apparent cornering lean and the same grippy assurance.
| 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
As hushed as any 4-dr Mercedes. Little wind noise, only a muted V8 growl at high revs, but moderate coarse-pavement tire thrum.
| 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
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 61 | |
| High Score | 72 |
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/23/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| CLS500 4-door sedan | $64,900 | $60,357 | $775 |
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| CLS55 4-door sedan | $86,600 | $80,538 | $775 |
Price note: CLS500 adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax. CLS55 adds $1700 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
CLS500
Powertrain
5.0-liter V8 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, daytime running lights, emergency inside trunklid release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Tele Aid assistance system, air conditioning w/4-zone climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, power tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, 10-way power front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night and passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/weatherband/CD player, analog clock, tachometer, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, front and rear fog lights, automatic and driver-adjustable air suspension w/level control, 245/40ZR18 front tires, 255/40ZR18 rear tires, alloy wheels.
CLS55 adds to CLS500:
Powertrain
5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated multicontour front seats, upgraded leather upholstery, Harman/Kardon sound system.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 255/35R19 front tires, 285/30ZR19 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Launch Edition Pkg.
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CLS500
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$8,500
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$7,905
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Upgraded leather upholstery and wood interior trim, heated active-ventilated seats, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Harman/Kardon sound system, 6-disc CD changer, steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights w/washers, unique alloy wheels.
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Comfort Pkg.
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CLS500
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$1,500
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$1,395
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CLS55
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$1,750
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$1,628
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Multicontour front seats (CLS500), drive-dynamic seats (CLS55), heated active-ventilated seats, rear sunshade.
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Entertainment Pkg.
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CLS500
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$980
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$911
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Harman/Kardon sound system, 6-disc CD changer.
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Premium Pkg.
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CLS500
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$3,650
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$3,395
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CLS55
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$3,900
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$3,627
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Comfort Pkg. and Entertainment Pkg. plus navigation system.
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AMG Sport Pkg.
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CLS500
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$4,950
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$4,604
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Steering-wheel shift buttons, bodyside cladding, 255/40ZR18 front tires, 285/35ZR18 rear tires, unique alloy wheels.
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AMG Performance Pkg.
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CLS55
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$9,500
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$8,835
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Limited-slip differential, 186 mph top speed limiter, uprated brakes, alcantara steering wheel, bodyside cladding, AMG Suspension System, performance tires, unique alloy wheels. Requires tire-pressure monitor.
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Graphite/Mystic White designo Edition
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CLS500, CLS55
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$6,895
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$6,412
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Unique interior trim.
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Safety |
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Rear-obstacle-detection system
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CLS500, CLS55
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$1,100
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$1,023
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Tire-pressure monitor
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CLS55
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$410
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$
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Requires AMG Performance Pkg.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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CLS500, CLS55
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$1,240
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$1,153
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6-disc CD changer
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CLS500, CLS55
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$430
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$400
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Satellite radio
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CLS500, CLS55
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$699
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$650
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Requires monthly fee.
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Distronic cruise control
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CLS500
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$3,130
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$2,911
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CLS55
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$3,110
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$2,892
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Trim Pkg.
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CLS500
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$890
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$828
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Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
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Power trunk closer
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CLS500, CLS55
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$510
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$474
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Keyless Go
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CLS500, CLS55
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$1,080
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$1,004
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Upgraded leather upholstery
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CLS500
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$950
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$884
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Heated front seats
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CLS500
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$690
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$642
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Voice-activated integrated cell phone
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CLS500, CLS55
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$1,450
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$1,349
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Lighting Pkg.
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CLS500, CLS55
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$1,220
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$1,135
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Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights w/washers.
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Run-flat tires
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CLS500
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$200
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$186
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2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 193.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.7 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3812 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 36.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.1 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.1 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.0 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| Supercharged sohc V8 | sohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 5.4 /332 | 5.0 /303 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 469 @ 6100 | 302 @ 5600 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 516 @ 2650 | 339 @ 2700 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed automatic | 14/20 | --/-- |
| 7-speed automatic | --/-- | 16/22 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 4-door sedan |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | --/-- | Unlimited |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Germany
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: wood trim, lighting package, premium package, gas guzzler tax, electronic trunk closer Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 17.69 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Kirk Bell $7,100 for a C-pillar that actually hurts a car's utility doesn't make a lot of sense to me. The CLS provides well-to-do hip family types with the opportunity to drive a cool-looking car, but it does so at a cost that I don't think is worth it over an E500. Mark Bilek Even Mercedes admits that the CLS is a compromise. It rides and handles beautifully. However, the rear seating area is a joke, materials and fit-and-finish merely adequate, and visibility is, at times, scary. Add to this M-B's typical cryptic audio and navigation controls and the CLS becomes as frustrating to drive as it is comforting. With a list price of over $70,000 it is hard to imagine anyone finding this car a good buy over a traditional E-Class or even a coupe like the BMW 6-Series. In my eye the CLS is a styling exercise that should have stayed a concept car. Rick Cotta While it sacrifices some of the E500's practicality, the swoopy styling and lower production assures the CLS500 will get noticed. You could spend the $7000 difference on fancy wheels for your E and not get anywhere near the looks, making this a veritable bargain for style-conscious buyers. |
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Also in the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Full Review
7.
8.
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