CLS Observations

[DITTRICH]

Whilst getting my C230K serviced today, the dealer dropped me off at work in a newish CLS. And although it is undoubtably very nice, I just couldn't bring myself to "like" it for the following reasons:-

1 Can't see the bonnet in front and so the driving position seems much more "forward". Basically it feels less "safe" compared to a W202 or W124 where you can see the bonnet.

2 Squillions of "buttons" all over the place making me yearn for the simplicity of the controls of older generation cars.

3 I know its a CLS but the cabin "felt" smaller than my W202 saloon. Something to do with the "tunnel" into which you stick your legs. "Luxury" and a cramped space don't go well together.

So I came away feeling distinctly underwhelmed and a little disappointed.

I guess I'm just getting "old" , a condition which I define as driving a mercedes
which is at least 2 generations behind the latest models.

Les

 

[kwakdonut]

Certainly shows that we all have differing perceptions of these cars - certainly seems that overall, the CLS gets a very definite 'thumbs up'.

Obviously just doesn't suit what you currently want in a car, that's all.

 

[glojo]

Certainly shows that we all have differing perceptions of these cars - certainly seems that overall, the CLS gets a very definite 'thumbs up'.

Obviously just doesn't suit what you currently want in a car, that's all.

I am always reading posts where folks say how they like a car and think it looks marvellous but then fail to buy one. I totally, 100% respect those owners that buy a new CLS because it is these people that will keep that model alive, but has it taken off? Is this a model that will become aicon and be a car that matures with age? I put it on the same shelf as the R-class and neither model will ever be on my shopping list.

I still do not have a clue what the CLS is? Is it a cut down CL and if so where arethe luxury features that go with the CL and why the CL abbreviation with an 'S' bunged on the end. Is it an E-class coupe and if so, why four doors and why not call it an ELS?

 

[w124coupe]

Big footprint and only 4 seats killed it for me - starting to look "old" too...

 

[kwakdonut]

Could it have been an attempt at 'making' a car for a niche that actually isn't there to fill in the first place? Bit like making four-wheel drive cars that actually aren't and can't!!

I personally quite like the CLS, but no, I wouldn't buy one - would go for a C or E Class saloon instead.

 

[The Boss]

the cls in amg guise with amg engine wins it for me.

4 seater cabin is a killer... wish it had 5 seats...

first 5 seater coupe cls... nice thought!

the standard ones look bit bland but amg makes it look stunning!

 

[renault12ts]

I like the CLS also. Wouldn't buy one, but enjoy driving my friend's one. But when going on holiday we must take my car to the airport. There is no way a CLS will take the luggage for four adults.

Bland? Absolutely not. TB as usual trying stir it up a bit?

 

[Smatt]

I like them.
What put me off was the vast size- similar to an E-class estate in length!

They are aimed as a more luxurious car, hence the 4 seats- 5 seats would be cramped, so not luxurious.
They are popular and influential- many other marques have copied. The new VW passat is similar in styling

 

[wemorgan]

TB as usual trying stir it up a bit?

badgering about as usual

 

[evdok]

Called out mobilolife last night as pops was on holiday thus resulting in a flat battery on his CLS350, 12,500 mls '05', took it for a 15mile spin..as you would must say it feels much smoother on the ride than mine, cabin deff felt smaller, steering much lighter, pleasure to drive though shame it's a four seater.

 

[crockers]

Being over 6ft tall ..rear seats don't have enough headroom ...

 

[w124coupe]

Being over 6ft tall ..rear seats don't have enough headroom ...

I was just about to say that - rear seats designed as luxury space for 2 short-ish fat people - the sort that Mr Clarkson likes to insult when on roadtrips. Or KFC kids - Kentucky Fat Children.

 

[DSLiverpool]

As my CLS ownership goes into a 3rd year (the longest I have ever had a car) I love it but I love it more for the 55 bit than the CLS bit.

I drive one up 60% and 2 up 30% of the time so rear seats dont matter much, it needs a good shine to look good as a dirty black one looks very average.

The thought of an upgrade has just started to tickle a lobe and it would have to be a C63 and I will consider this at year end if we have a good xmas down the pit

 

[fredT]

i rhink this onw will definately age well. if it was available in convertible i would be very interested. 4 seats is a bit of a bummer

 

[DSLiverpool]

In the words of the car god (JC)

But this wasn’t good enough for Hans Beckenbaur, a flour merchant from Dortmund, who wanted a car that looked like a coupé but was in fact a four-door saloon.

Mercedes was horrified that he’d exposed a gap in its line-up and immediately set about filling it with the car you see here, the CLS.

It is a Marmite car, I know. You either love it or you’ve put down your newspaper and run from the room retching. I’m in the love camp.

So far as I’m concerned this is certainly the most spectacular looking car Mercedes has made and possibly one of the all time greats from anywhere.

 

[bpsorrel]

Couldn't agree more. I love the CLS, I think it's styling is dramatic and in days when so many cars look similar, a refreshing change. Just a shame VW have copied it...

 

[Deleted member 6183]

I had one for a wek recently and put 2000 miles on it.

I first saw one in France before they were released in the UK and fell in instan love with it. I vowed that I would DEFINITELY buy one when they became affordable.

Now I've taken a lengthy test drive?

No.

The seats are too small and it doesn't live up to it's swoopy batmobile lines. I was both bitterly disappointed and relieved that I wouldn't have to waste my money on buying one.

I couldn't wait to get back into my W220 and I think that hat is an issue that will cost me more in the long run. Where do you go after an S class?

 

[Simon_M]

I'll agree with JC on it, but then I own one.

Saw a white AMG one on the M25 this morning, now that looked real smart.

If it is such a duff design then why are BMW, VW, Audi et all copying it?

As long as they don't spoil it's legacy with future b@stardisations, it will be seen in automotive museums in the future alongside such greats as the VW Beetle, Porsche 911 and (IMHO) original Audi TT.

S

 

[alanuk400]

What about this, looks like something big tried to eat it!

 

[kwakdonut]

Waiting for someone to comment about the airbags.........