The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 marked a significant point in the evolution of luxury coupes, blending striking design with powerful performance and a suite of advanced features. This model year continued the CLS-Class tradition of offering a unique combination of sporty aesthetics and refined comfort. Let’s delve into the standard equipment, optional packages, and standalone options that defined the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550, making it a desirable choice for discerning drivers.
Standard Equipment: Elevating the Driving Experience
Mercedes-Benz equipped the 2012 CLS 550 with a comprehensive list of standard features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, performance, and safety.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Inside the cabin, the 2012 CLS 550 offered a luxurious and technologically advanced environment. The COMAND system with a 40GB hard-drive GPS navigation system served as the central hub for infotainment and vehicle controls. Bluetooth interface and Voice Control added to the seamless connectivity. Audiophiles would appreciate the 14-speaker harman/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound System with Dolby Digital 5.1, coupled with HD Digital Radio, an in-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer, and a SD card reader. SIRIUS Satellite Radio provided a wide range of entertainment options.
The cabin was bathed in natural light through a power tilt/sliding sunroof with one-touch open/close functionality. Full leather interior and burl walnut wood trim created an atmosphere of sophisticated elegance. The multifunction leather sport steering wheel and 14-way power-adjustable front seats with memory functions ensured personalized comfort for both driver and passenger. Further enhancing convenience were features like a 4-way power tilt and telescoping steering column, dual-zone automatic climate control, electronic cruise control, remote central locking with SmartKey, and power windows with express up and down. Auto-dimming mirrors, an integrated garage door opener, and intermittent wipers with a rain sensor added practical touches. Multi-color ambient lighting allowed drivers to customize the interior ambiance.
Performance and Handling Prowess
Under the hood, the 2012 CLS 550 boasted a potent engine delivering 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. This power translated to an impressive acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph (electronically limited). The 7-speed driver-adaptive transmission with Sport and Economy shift modes, along with steering wheel shift paddles, offered a dynamic driving experience. Electro-hydraulic power-assisted speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering provided precise control, while the AIRMATIC semi-active suspension with Adaptive Damping System ensured a smooth and composed ride.
The CLS 550 featured a sophisticated suspension system, with a 4-link independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension, both equipped with stabilizer bars. Braking was handled by internally ventilated discs both front and rear, with 4-piston fixed calipers at the front for enhanced stopping power. A dual exhaust system with chrome tailpipes added a sporty visual element.
Safety and Security Systems
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2012 CLS 550. ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness monitor, mbrace system, and a comprehensive warranty and roadside assistance program provided peace of mind. The steel-reinforced cabin with crumple zones and 3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters formed the basis of occupant protection. A suite of airbags, including front dual-stage airbags, pelvic airbags, side window airbags, side airbags, and dual front knee airbags, offered comprehensive protection in various collision scenarios. NECK-PRO active head restraints and ISOFIX anchor and tether system further enhanced safety. 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS & BAS, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), PRE-SAFE predictive protection system, and a roll-over sensor contributed to accident avoidance and mitigation. An anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer, night security illumination, tire pressure monitoring system, and panic button remote key added layers of security. Bi-Xenon headlamps provided enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
Wheels and Tires
The 2012 CLS 550 came standard with 18″ staggered-width 5-spoke alloy wheels, fitted with all-season tires for balanced performance in various conditions.
Optional Packages and Stand-Alone Options: Customizing Your CLS 550
For buyers seeking to further personalize their 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550, a range of optional packages and stand-alone options were available.
Premium 1 Package
The Premium 1 Package enhanced convenience and technology with features like a rearview camera, heated & active ventilated front seats, iPod/MP3 media interface, power rear-window sunshade, headlamp cleaning system, adaptive high beam assist, full-LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, KEYLESS-GO, electronic trunk closer, and corner-illuminating lamps.
Lane Tracking Package
The Lane Tracking Package focused on driver assistance, incorporating Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist to enhance safety on the road.
Driver Assistance Package
Building upon the Lane Tracking Package, the Driver Assistance Package added DISTRONIC PLUS (with PRE-SAFE Brake), Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist, offering a more comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids.
Sport Package and Sport Package Plus One
For a sportier aesthetic and driving experience, the Sport Package included all-season tires, an AMG sport steering wheel, AMG body styling, and AMG 18″ 5-spoke alloy wheels. The Sport Package Plus One further enhanced this with high-performance tires and AMG 19″ 5-spoke alloy wheels.
Stand-Alone Options
Individual options allowed for further customization, including 19″ 5-spoke alloy wheels, PARKTRONIC with advanced parking assist, split-folding rear seats, a wood/leather steering wheel, rear side airbags, active multicontour driver’s seat, heated steering wheel, and Night View Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.
Paint, Upholstery, and Trim Options
A wide array of paint colors, upholstery materials (leather and premium leather), and optional trims like Black Ash wood allowed buyers to tailor the CLS 550 to their personal style.
Conclusion: The Alluring 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 stood out as a luxury coupe that seamlessly blended performance, technology, and sophisticated design. Its extensive list of standard features, combined with a variety of optional packages and stand-alone choices, ensured a customizable and premium driving experience. For those seeking a stylish and powerful coupe in the used car market, the 2012 CLS 550 remains a compelling option, offering a taste of Mercedes-Benz luxury and engineering excellence.
