WE RIDE IN THE NEW MERCEDES CLS
Mercedes faces an interesting challenge developing the new CLS. The car has two distinct customer bases: those after a dynamic but luxurious four-door coupé and those (particularly in China) who want a luxury car with the style of a dynamic four-door coupé.
To find out how Mercedes is attempting to keep both sets of customers happy, we were given a passenger ride in petrol and diesel versions of the first production trial cars. While largely finished in terms of manufacturing, there is still fine-tuning to be done on setup and programming.
From the passenger seat (like the driver’s seat, more supportive than that in the E-class, reflecting the car’s more dynamic nature), it’s clear how Mercedes is appealing to those buying a CLS for style. The addition of a third pew in the back reflects demand, although only the young will likely be able to make use of it (and then in limited comfort).
The optional Widescreen Cockpit system from the S-class gives the interior a high-tech feel, and design flourishes such as colourchanging LEDS on the new-look air vents certainly make a statement. Add in features such as the slightly surreal ‘energising comfort’ control, which links together functions such as the aircon, audio, massage seats and lighting to create an relaxing ambience, and the CLS can be specified with plenty of showy style.
That isn’t at the expense of on-road substance. Our ride took place on the bumpy, twisting roads of the North Yorkshire moors, and from the passenger seat the new CLS coped with them well. Our first run came in the 362bhp electrified petrol unit, fitted with 20in wheels and air suspension. The latter system is taken from the E-class but has been tuned for the CLS. When the car tackles a big bump in the road, it is quickly settled by the suspension.
The different drive modes were apparent too: in Eco mode, the 48V electric motor helped keep the car quiet – seamlessly turning off the petrol engine when not needed – but switch to Sport and Sport+ and the engine note picks up while, at the same time, the car’s ride stiffens notably.
Our ride suggests that the CLS remains a strong cruiser with dynamic ability, although we’ll have to wait to get behind the wheel to find out for sure.