2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
MSRP range: $76,500 Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.
2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class





+65
great
8.1/10
Edmunds Rating
It's an SUV world and the Mercedes-Benz CLS just lives in it, but to drive one is to remember just how satisfying a luxury sedan can be. Low to the ground with a soothing presence, the striking CLS loves the open road and cossets its lucky occupants in an opulent, quiet cabin. Is it special enough compared to its cheaper and roomier E-Class sibling? That may be the primary question.
Pricing
Total MSRPThis price includes a $1,150 destination fee charged by the manufacturer. | $77,650 |
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What others are paying | $77,958 |
Low supply is pushing the market average above MSRP. |
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2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review

byAlex Nishimoto
Correspondent
Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007. He was a staff writer for MotorTrend for 10 years and since then has contributed to CNET, PRI, AutoWise and other publications.
Pros
- Powerful engine delivers decisive acceleration
- Pleasing balance of handling performance and comfort
- Long list of available advanced driver assist features
- Sleek exterior and impeccable interior
Cons
- Interior and trunk space are compromised by styling
- More expensive than the related E-Class sedan
What's new
- Metallic paints are now a no-cost option
- Part of the third CLS generation introduced for 2019
Overview
"Form follows function" is generally a good philosophy to adhere to when designing a car, but a little bit of "form over function" can work too if the impact on usability is minimal and the aesthetic payoff is big. The Mercedes-Benz CLS pulls that off expertly, striking a careful balance between sleek good looks and luxury sedan practicality.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class CLS 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.07 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$199/mo
CLS-Class CLS 450 4MATIC
vs
$205/mo
Avg. Large Car
Based on the midsize E-Class sedan, the CLS gets a more stylish exterior treatment that's highlighted by a raked roofline. This gives it a coupe-like profile, though it does come at the expense of rear headroom and overall seat space. To help compensate, the CLS features a distinctive and more luxurious interior than the E-Class. The trade-off here, of course, is a higher starting price.
The CLS remains a fine choice among coupe-style luxury sedans, but the model has stagnated a bit. For 2023, the only change is the addition of premium metallic paint colors as no-cost options. The Mercedes' competitors, including the Audi A7, BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe and Porsche Panamera, offer similar good looks and luxurious amenities. Check out our test team's Expert Rating below to see how the CLS stacks up against its rivals.
Edmunds Expert Rating
great
8.1/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
It's an SUV world and the Mercedes-Benz CLS just lives in it, but to drive one is to remember just how satisfying a luxury sedan can be. Low to the ground with a soothing presence, the striking CLS loves the open road and cossets its lucky occupants in an opulent, quiet cabin. Is it special enough compared to its cheaper and roomier E-Class sibling? That may be the primary question.
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Performance
8.0/10
How does the CLS-Class drive? The Mercedes-Benz CLS is a well-rounded luxury sport sedan that stands out both for its acceleration and its extreme refinement. There are no flat spots in the turbocharged inline-six engine's power delivery. We tested the CLS 450 4Matic, which is now the only CLS variant available, and recorded a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, or just 0.3 second slower than the discontinued AMG CLS 53 we tested previously.
The CLS 450's handling is capable and secure, but there's big-time body roll during hard cornering. Will many CLS buyers take corners like that? Probably not, but it makes the CLS feel less sporty than it could be. If you're looking for a four-door sports car, the CLS 450 tilts too much to be a contender.
The CLS 450's handling is capable and secure, but there's big-time body roll during hard cornering. Will many CLS buyers take corners like that? Probably not, but it makes the CLS feel less sporty than it could be. If you're looking for a four-door sports car, the CLS 450 tilts too much to be a contender.
Comfort
9.0/10
How comfortable is the CLS-Class? The CLS is extremely comfortable on long drives thanks to minimal noise, outstanding seat comfort and an excellent climate control system. The engine is impeccably smooth too. The front seats' combination of supple leather and firm padding provides great long-distance support and comfort.
At highway speeds, the CLS provides exceptional isolation from the elements. There's little engine noise aside from a muted growl during hard acceleration. Engine vibration is nearly nonexistent. The adaptive suspension skillfully smothers moderate irregularities in most cases, but it isn't able to deal with broken pavement quite as well, delivering a ride that's surprisingly a bit jarring.
At highway speeds, the CLS provides exceptional isolation from the elements. There's little engine noise aside from a muted growl during hard acceleration. Engine vibration is nearly nonexistent. The adaptive suspension skillfully smothers moderate irregularities in most cases, but it isn't able to deal with broken pavement quite as well, delivering a ride that's surprisingly a bit jarring.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
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2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class pricing
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Interior
8.0/10
How’s the interior? The CLS' controls are easy to use thanks to intuitive interfaces with crisp graphics, although it's too easy to brush the touchpad inadvertently while you're reaching across the center console. The screen menus can seem overly complicated at first, but they are well organized.
As for interior space, the CLS provides plenty of elbow room and legroom in front, yet headroom is compromised a bit compared to the related E-Class. That's especially true in the back seat because of the sloped roofline. Getting in and out of the rear can also be tight and more awkward than in a more traditionally shaped sedan, especially if taller folks are sitting up front.
As for interior space, the CLS provides plenty of elbow room and legroom in front, yet headroom is compromised a bit compared to the related E-Class. That's especially true in the back seat because of the sloped roofline. Getting in and out of the rear can also be tight and more awkward than in a more traditionally shaped sedan, especially if taller folks are sitting up front.
Technology
9.0/10
How’s the tech? The CLS' central display screen is large and graphically exquisite. The touchpad between the front seats is an acquired taste, but fortunately the screen also responds to tap-and-swipe inputs. Sound quality from the 13-speaker Burmester audio system is exceptional, with crisp highs and rich, tonally precise bass.
The driver aids are numerous and work quite well. Pairing adaptive cruise control with active lane keeping assistance provides near autonomous driving capability, and with the new capacitive-touch steering wheel, one hand resting on the wheel is sufficient to keep the lane centering active — no wiggling of the wheel required. All of these systems are extremely well calibrated and false positives are rare.
The driver aids are numerous and work quite well. Pairing adaptive cruise control with active lane keeping assistance provides near autonomous driving capability, and with the new capacitive-touch steering wheel, one hand resting on the wheel is sufficient to keep the lane centering active — no wiggling of the wheel required. All of these systems are extremely well calibrated and false positives are rare.
Storage
7.0/10
How’s the storage? At 11.9 cubic feet, the CLS' trunk has less storage space than the E-Class sedan's, as well as the trunks of most other midsize luxury sedans. Still, there's enough room here to swallow a few weekend luggage bags, or even a golf bag and a push cart. There's adequate small-item storage inside the cabin thanks to huge door pockets and a divided center console. The 40/20/40-split rear seatback folds, helping improve utility. But new parents will likely grumble about the low roofline and tight rear quarters when installing a child safety seat and loading or unloading a child.
Fuel Economy
8.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? The CLS 450 4Matic gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined (22 city/30 highway). This is above-average fuel economy for a performance-oriented midsize luxury sedan with all-wheel drive. We observed 23.5 mpg on our 115-mile real-world test route in mixed-driving conditions, which included unusually heavy traffic on some highway sections. Given the traffic, we'd surmise the CLS is capable of meeting its EPA estimates.
Value
8.0/10
Is the CLS-Class a good value? The CLS is impeccably built. It looks and feels special. This is not an inexpensive car, but owners will be satisfied that they got their money's worth every time they get in. That said, it's hard to justify buying a CLS over a regular E-Class sedan considering it costs thousands of dollars more and has less rear passenger space and trunk space. Audi's S7 is another intriguing option, and the CLS may not have enough of a wow factor to stand apart. Basic warranty coverage is typical for the class at four years/50,000 miles.
Wildcard
8.0/10
Plenty of power and a delightfully refined driving experience underscore this sedan's appeal. Stylewise, the CLS stands out among ordinary sedans, but it lacks the visual impact of some coupe-like sedans, including the Audi S7 and Mercedes' own AMG GT. Also, for some, the CLS' resemblance to Mercedes' entry-level CLA may be too close for comfort. On the bright side, the CLS is a great way to blend in while still prioritizing fashion, but these days, folks paying almost six figures for a luxury car may want a higher profile.
Which CLS-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Only one trim level of the Mercedes CLS remains: The CLS 450 4Matic. It comes with a long list of useful standard features, but for the best experience we recommend adding the Driver Assistance package, which adds adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance and more. If you live in a colder climate, the Warmth and Comfort package is a great choice as it adds rapid heating capability for the front seats, a heated armrest and a heated steering wheel.
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class models
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS is a four-door sedan with a coupe-like roofline and seating for five. It has a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine (362 horsepower, 369 lb-ft of torque) that is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels. It's only available in a single CLS 450 4Matic trim. Standard feature highlights include:
- 19-inch wheels
- LED exterior lighting
- Power-folding mirrors
- Sunroof
- Power trunklid
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Leather seat upholstery
- Synthetic leather interior trim
- Remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app
- 12.3-inch digital instrument display and 12.3-inch touchscreen
- Navigation system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Heated front seats
- Interior ambient lighting
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Heated windshield
The CLS also comes standard with many driver aids such as:
- Blind-spot assistance (automatically steers the car back into its lane if you try to change lanes while a car is in the vehicle's blind spot)
- Forward collision mitigation (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time)
- Pre-Safe and Pre-Safe Sound (reduces hearing damage from an accident by emitting a specific noise that triggers an inner-ear muscle reflex to protect hearing)
- Driver attention warning (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)
- Car-to-X communication (automatically transmits and receives safety updates to and from other appropriately equipped vehicles, then alerts drivers to hazards)
- Automatic high beams
Besides several wheel choices and cosmetic AMG options, there are a few bundled options. They include:
Driver Assistance package
- Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
- Lane keeping assistance (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
- Evasive steering assistance (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance)
- Emergency stop assistance (senses if the driver is incapacitated and automatically slows the car to a stop, activates the hazard lights and summons help)
Premium package
- 13-speaker Burmester audio system
- Satellite radio
- Semi-automated parking system
- Surround-view camera system
Warmth and Comfort package
- Rapid seat heating
- Heated front armrests
- Heated steering wheel
There are also a handful of stand-alone options that include:
- Ventilated front seats
- Multicontour front seats with massage functions
- Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
- Power rear window shade
- Wireless charging pad
- Soft-close doors (catch as they're being closed and gently pull shut)

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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class.
5 star reviews: 86%
4 star reviews: 0%
3 star reviews: 0%
2 star reviews: 14%
1 star reviews: 0%
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, Classy car
Papi,
CLS 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
If you are looking for a car that brings a bit of excitement to you every time you approach it, this is your type of vehicle. Aside from great lines and looks, it is smooth, quiet, luxurious and sporty at the same time! A pleasure to drive!
5/5 stars, Fast, Stylish, the happy marriage of sport/sedan
AKALOVE,
AMG CLS 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
I went from a 2016 cla 45 to a 2020 cls 53 amg and couldn’t be happier. I weighed all of my options before upgrading between many amg models 53, 63, the GT etc. I needed a daily driver but like my cla one that was still quick, fun to be in, all wheel drive/4 matic (I live in New York, winter can be tuff lol), stylish with coupe like features and just an overall joy to own and be in. The … 2020 CLS hits all those markers half coupe half sedan with an attitude; she’s fun drive, quick from the start and can also be comfortable and quite (dynamic select). I’ve had nothing but amazing experiences with Mercedes and worked hard to earn every dollar to be able to afford in my opinion such a luxury. Can you put your 6 foot friend in the back seat yeah is it a tight fit yeah but I don’t buy my cars for the comfort of others. I buy them for me! Take care of your car and she’ll take care of you (service appointments, oil changes, etc). If you want the best of both worlds; power, performance, luxury, comfort, speed, 4 matic, daily driving but totally worthy of bringing her to the track for a little fun then the CLS is for you. Fast enough to get in trouble, comfortable enough to drive daily or support your family yet not to fast your life insurance policy goes up lol then the CLS is a no brainer. This is obviously my opinion but I’ve been a proud and happy Mercedes Benz owner now for 5 years and smile every-time i open the man-door to my garage and see my beautiful 2020 cls 53 waiting for me :) life is great work hard play harder. Many best wishes to health, success and happiness to all.
5/5 stars, Rolling Technology Display
Jim Collum,
CLS 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 9A)
Just leased this car after previously leasing a 2016 CLS400. Huge leap ahead. Other than seats that are too aggressively bolstered for a everyday sedan, I love this vehicle. Best parts are an amazing powertrain with effortless and endless power, beautiful interior, great stereo and safety features and a 5th seat. Technology isn’t always intuitive but learning curve isn’t steep. Truck … shrunk a bit as well from the last generation. It may not have a ton of personality as most cars are just snout perfect nowadays but it’s truly a fantastic vehicle I’d recommend to anyone and makes a great family vehicle for my wife, me and our 2 year old.
5/5 stars, Love my 2019 CLS 53
Bob Friedman,
AMG CLS 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 9A)
I love love this car and I traded a 2016 Bentley V8s convertible for it. My car is matte selenite grey and one report said it is difficult to care for. I generally wash it my self and it is the easiest car I’ve ever had to keep clean. If the wheels are clean the car alwa6s looks clean no matter how dirty I might be
Helpful shopping links
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $77,650
- MPG & Fuel
- 22 City / 30 Hwy / 25 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 9-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 362 hp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 198.8 in. / Height: 56.6 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 81.5 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 73.8 in.
- Curb Weight: 4,255 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 11.9 cu.ft.
Compare the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
Compare selected vehiclesCompare Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class to any vehicle See full list of Midsize luxury sedans rankings
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class vs. Mercedes-Benz AMG GT
If you want high-performance thrills to go along with your coupe-style Mercedes sedan, you need to step up to the AMG GT. Also based on the E-Class, the AMG GT features exterior styling inspired by the discontinued AMG GT sports car. The base AMG GT 43 has the same drivetrain as the CLS, though more extreme flavors are available in the AMG GT 53 and 63. It's slightly sportier to drive in base form but gets worse fuel economy and delivers a harsher ride. It's also more expensive with a starting price roughly $20,000 more than the CLS.
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class vs. Audi A7
Like the CLS, the A7 boasts an eye-catching exterior and a luxurious, tech-rich interior. The A7 is a bit more engaging to drive, though its steering can feel artificial at times. Though both cars have sloping rooflines, the A7 gets a slightly more spacious rear seat with about an inch of extra headroom. Because the A7 has a hatch instead of a trunk, it also benefits from more cargo volume (24.9 cubic feet compared to just 11.9 for the CLS).
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class vs. BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe
The 8 Series Gran Coupe more directly competes with the AMG GT, but it's close in size to the CLS and offers a similarly sleek exterior design. The base 8 Series Gran Coupe is powered by a turbocharged inline-six and comes standard in rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive available. It goes around corners better than the CLS and has less body roll. But just as with the AMG GT, that sportiness comes at a hefty premium. The 8 Series Gran Coupe starts nearly $14,000 more than the CLS.

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Safety
Our experts’ favorite CLS-Class safety features:
- Active Brake Assist
- Warns if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time.
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- Alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot and beeps if you signal in that direction. It also steers you away if you drift toward it.
- Car-to-X communication
- Automatically transmits and receives safety updates to and from other appropriately equipped vehicles, then alerts drivers about hazards they can't yet see.
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 CLS-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.1 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 CLS-Class gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 7 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the CLS-Class has 11.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class:
- Metallic paints are now a no-cost option
- Part of the third CLS generation introduced for 2019
Is the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class reliable?
To determine whether the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the CLS-Class. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the CLS-Class's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 CLS-Class and gave it a 8.1 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 CLS-Class gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 7 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 CLS-Class is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?
The least-expensive 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class CLS 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $76,500.
Other versions include:
- CLS 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $76,500
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?
If you're interested in the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, the next question is, which CLS-Class model is right for you? CLS-Class variants include CLS 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). For a full list of CLS-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
Related 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class info
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