2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Price Range: $37,990 - $44,998

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class AMG CLS 53 Sedan Exterior

Great

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is a well-executed sedan. Every aspect is refined, from the cabin to the infotainment system to its innovative mild hybrid engine. The only downside is that the E-Class does it all for less money.

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Appraise My 2021 Mercedes-Benz

Pros

Powerful engines deliver decisive acceleration
Pleasing balance of handling performance and comfort
Long list of available advanced safety 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

MBUX infotainment system and digital instrument panel now standard
Surround-view camera system and power rear sunshade standard on AMG CLS 53
Part of the third CLS generation introduced for 2019

Overview

Written by automotive expert Ryan ZumMallen

4/29/2021

Are traditional luxury cars too staid and dull for your taste? A good remedy is to consider a coupe-like sedan with a sporty fastback roofline. The Mercedes-Benz CLS started the trend nearly two decades ago, and it remains an excellent alternative to more conventional sedans. Based on the Mercedes E-Class, the CLS puts a trendy twist on luxury vehicles. Yes, you sacrifice some rear headspace and overall practicality, but it'll be worth it if you find the CLS' look appealing.

The 2021 CLS is the last model year before a refreshed version arrives in 2022. To keep the current offering relevant, Mercedes-Benz has updated the CLS to include the company's excellent MBUX infotainment system as standard this year. It's now armed with an advantage in the tech department over competitors including the Audi A7, BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe and Porsche Panamera. What else is there to like? Read our in-depth Expert Rating below to find out more.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Great

8.3

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8.5/10

How does the CLS-Class drive? The Mercedes-Benz CLS is a well-rounded sport luxury sedan that stands out both for its power and its extreme refinement. There are no flat spots in the power delivery. We tested the AMG 53 version and recorded a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds, which is impressive.

The CLS' handling is capable and secure, and overall it's a more rewarding car to drive than the lower-trim E-Class sedans. Precise steering gives you a clear sense of the on-center position. Even if you're just cruising around town, the CLS provides a sporty and refined driving experience.

Comfort

9/10

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 seat's combination of soft leather and firm padding provides great long-distance support and comfort.

At highway speeds, the CLS provides exceptional isolation from wind noise. There's little engine noise aside from a muted growl during hard acceleration. Engine vibration is nearly nonexistent. The only minor demerit is that tire noise over seamed or ridged pavement is more noticeable than we expect for a car like this.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? The CLS' controls are easy to use thanks to intuitive and straightforward interfaces. The screen menus can seem overly complicated at first, but they are well organized. The many ways to interface with the infotainment screen (hard keys, knob, touchpad, steering wheel touch nubs, voice) make it easier to use.

As for interior space, the CLS provides plenty of elbow room and legroom in front. But headroom is compromised a bit compared to the related E-Class. That's especially true in the back seat because of the sloped roofline.

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? The CLS' display screen is large and impressive, and the infotainment interface has a lot of capability. Sound quality from optional Burmester premium audio is exceptional. Using the knob is natural and effective, or use the nubs on the steering wheel (they take a brief period to learn).

The driver aids constitute a long list and work quite well. Our test car was equipped with the optional Driver Assistance package that includes every assist feature imaginable. All are extremely well calibrated, and false positives are rare.

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? 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. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seatback helps improve utility, so practicality remains decent for a sedan whose existence is predicated on style. In the cabin there's adequate small-item storage with huge door pockets and a divided center console.

Fuel Economy

8/10

How’s the fuel economy? The AMG CLS 53 we tested gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined. This is above-average fuel economy for a performance-oriented luxury sedan.

Value

8/10

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 headroom.

Wildcard

8.5/10

Plenty of power and a delightfully refined driving experience underscore this sedan's appeal. It's quite capable even on fast drives, though it stops short of hooliganism. Stylewise, the CLS stands out.

For sale near Ashburn, VA

82 listings

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2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
CLS 450 Sedan
$30,979
great price
$6,435 below market
- 35,563 miles
- 24 City / 31 Hwy MPG
- 30 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Woodbridge, VA
This 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450, with just 35,563 miles, presents a remarkable opportunity to own a stunning four-door coupe that masterfully blends b...
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (24 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
W1K2J5JB4LA071595
Stock:
071595
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
07-10-2026
2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
CLS 450 4MATIC Sedan
$32,979
great price
$3,808 below market
- 56,025 miles
- 22 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- 30 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Woodbridge, VA
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC, with 56,025 miles, continues to captivate as a stunning four-door coupe that masterfully blends breathtaking de...
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
W1K2J5KB7NA095486
Stock:
095486
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
06-12-2026

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2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class trim level differences

The CLS is a four-door luxury sedan with a fastback roofline. It comes in one of two trim levels: the CLS 450 or the AMG CLS 53. Both models use a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the CLS 450, with optional all-wheel drive (Mercedes' 4Matic). All-wheel drive is standard on the AMG CLS 53. Highlight features include: Compare the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class trim levels in-depth.

Which CLS-Class trim does Edmunds recommend?

Go for the AMG CLS 53 to make the most of the stylish and powerful ethos of the CLS. This top-level version comes with a serious bump in horsepower over the base model, plus sporty upgrades and AMG interior trimmings to add an air of exclusivity. If you're already considering a luxury sedan big on personality, why not go all the way?

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.4

12 reviews

5(75%)

4(8%)

3(0%)

2(17%)

1(0%)

See all 12 reviews of the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Fast, Stylish, the happy marriage of sport/sedan

AKALOVE, 03/07/2020

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 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 …

Rolling Technology Display

Jim Collum, 09/12/2019

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 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 …

Classy car

Papi, 02/20/2020

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 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!

2020 CLS 450C

Andy R., 09/26/2023

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class CLS 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)

My 2020 CLS-450 is loaded. Only options I don't have are soft-closing doors and AIRMATIC. Wish I did. The car has 19 inch wheels and run-flat tires. The steel spring suspension can not be adjusted and is too stiff. The car is uncomfortable over bumps and pothole repairs. Lots of noise when the rear wheels go over a pothole repair. This is not what one would expect from a model year 2020 …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, so we've included reviews for other years of the CLS-Class since its last redesign.

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2021 CLS-Class Features & Specs

Type:

Sedan

Trim:

CLS 450

Est. Market Value	$34,827
Engine Type	Mild hybrid
Combined MPG	26 MPG
Cost to Drive	$240/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	11.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Reliability

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls.

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles

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Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class vs. Audi A7

The Audi A7 comes standard with all-wheel drive, and its wide hatchback design translates to cavernous rear cargo space. Both the A7 and the CLS are excellent to drive and offer high-performance variants. We prefer the CLS' infotainment system to the Audi's, which is more distracting to use while driving.

Compare Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class & Audi A7 features

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class vs. BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe

The 8 Series Gran Coupe is a little bigger than the CLS but still fits the mold as a sport-inspired sedan. It has a roomier rear seat and a bigger trunk than the CLS, plus available V8 power. But you'll likely pay more to get the 8 Series Gran Coupe, which makes the CLS the better value pick.

Compare Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class & BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe features

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class vs. Genesis G80

Sleek, luxurious and affordable — wait, what? The Genesis G80 is redesigned for 2021, and we've found it's vastly improved over the previous generation. The G80 is comfortable over most road surfaces and offers lots of standard features. It doesn't quite match the CLS in refinement, but the lower price easily compensates.

Compare Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class & Genesis G80 features

Safety

Our experts like the CLS-Class models:

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 2021 CLS-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.3 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2021 CLS-Class gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 12 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class:

MBUX infotainment system and digital instrument panel now standard
Surround-view camera system and power rear sunshade standard on AMG CLS 53
Part of the third CLS generation introduced for 2019

Learn more

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 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 CLS-Class and gave it a 8.3 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2021 CLS-Class gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 12 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 CLS-Class is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?

The least-expensive 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class CLS 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $70,300.

Other versions include:

CLS 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $70,300
CLS 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $72,800
AMG CLS 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $81,550

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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 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A), CLS 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A), and AMG CLS 53 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). For a full list of CLS-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more