2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class: Road Test
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $70,700 - $96,300
- Invoice: $65,751 - $89,559
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Our road test for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class help you decide if a 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.2 |
CLS550's V8 provides ample power at any speed, aided by smooth transmission that kicks down quickly for passing. No CLS63 models have been made available for testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a CLS550 averaged 22.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. All CLS models require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.4 |
Comfortable and composed, as only larger bumps register with any authority.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.2 |
Too big to be really agile, but the CLS550 exhibits little cornering lean and provides strong grip in fast turns.
QUIETNESS
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7 |
Very little highway wind or road noise. Engine is nearly silent during normal operation and produces a rich, muted growl under acceleration.
CONTROLS
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.3 |
Typical Mercedes design layout, with a few odd control icons and a steering-column cruise-control stalk that can be confused with the turn-signal lever below. Dashboard screen handles many audio and navigation controls, often requiring multiple steps for basic functions. Standard 4-zone climate control has separate front- and rear-seat controls.
DETAILS
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 7.5 |
Cabin impresses with elegant leather upholstery, expanses of wood trim, numerous padded surfaces, and top-notch workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.3 |
Low-roof styling gives a cozy cabin feel, pinches driver's vision astern and to the right-rear, and reduces ease of entry and exit. Ample legroom, but limited headroom for 6-footers. Well-shaped seats hug comfortably.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
Headroom is tight for those over about 5-ft-9. Legroom gets tight for adults if front seats are pushed far back. Individual seats are supportive but set low, which, combined with narrow door bottoms, hampers entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.9 |
Trunk is long and wide but not very tall, and the rear seatbacks don't fold. The trunk opening is fairly small, so larger items won't fit. Sickle-shaped trunklid hinges intrude a bit but are covered to avoid cargo damage. Cabin storage only average.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.5 |
Compared with the Mercedes E-Class on which it's based, the CLS trades svelte styling for typical sedan functionality--and a $9000 price premium. Furthermore, it lacks the E-Class' available all-wheel drive. But for well-heeled buyers who appreciate its dramatic design and can live with limited rear-seat room and reduced cargo versatility, the CLS won't likely disappoint.
Total Score
| CLS550 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 72 | 69.2 |
Total Score: 72
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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