The 2018 Mercedes-benz Cls-class stands as a testament to luxury and performance, offering a compelling blend of sophisticated design and powerful engineering. This model year presents discerning drivers with two primary choices: the refined CLS 550 and the high-performance AMG CLS 63 S. Each model caters to distinct preferences, ensuring a tailored driving experience within the esteemed CLS lineage.
Performance and Engine Options
Under the hood of the CLS 550, you’ll find a robust turbocharged 4.7-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 402 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant is seamlessly paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive gear shifts. The standard configuration sends power to the rear wheels, providing a classic driving feel. For enhanced traction and all-weather capability, the CLS 550 4Matic variant offers all-wheel drive.
For those seeking exhilarating performance, the AMG CLS 63 S elevates the driving experience to new heights. It boasts a formidable turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine, unleashing a staggering 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. This powerhouse is mated to a performance-oriented seven-speed automatic transmission, engineered for rapid and precise gear changes. All-wheel drive comes standard on the AMG CLS 63 S, ensuring optimal power delivery and control.
Standard Features of the CLS 550
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 is generously equipped with a suite of standard features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity. Exterior highlights include stylish 18-inch wheels and advanced LED headlights that provide excellent visibility. A sunroof brings natural light into the cabin, while automatic wipers and auto-dimming mirrors add to the ease of driving. The adaptive air suspension system ensures a smooth and composed ride across varying road surfaces.
Inside, dual-zone automatic climate control maintains personalized comfort for both driver and passenger. Power-adjustable and heated front seats, complete with memory functions, offer optimal driving and passenger positioning. Luxurious leather upholstery envelops the seating surfaces, while a power-adjustable steering wheel further tailors the driving environment. The COMAND infotainment interface, featuring an 8-inch screen and knob controller, provides access to navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Audiophiles will appreciate the standard 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Safety is paramount, with forward collision warning and automatic braking included as standard features.
Optional Packages and Standalone Options for CLS 550
To further personalize the CLS 550, Mercedes-Benz offers a range of optional packages. The Premium package enhances convenience with keyless entry and ignition, adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, power-folding mirrors, a power trunklid, ventilated front seats, and a power rear sunshade.
For advanced safety and driver assistance, the Lane Tracking package includes blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. The Driver Assistance package expands on this with adaptive cruise control, steering assist, enhanced forward collision mitigation, rear-end collision preparation, active blind-spot assist, and active lane-keeping assist. Maneuvering in tight spaces is simplified with the Parking Assist package, which adds a surround-view monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and an automated parallel parking system.
Notable standalone options for the CLS 550 include an illuminated Mercedes logo in the grille for a distinctive aesthetic touch, a heated steering wheel for cold climates, split-folding rear seats for increased cargo versatility, rear-seat side airbags for enhanced passenger protection, a multicontour front seat for ultimate comfort, and a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system for an unparalleled auditory experience.
AMG CLS 63 S Upgrades and Options
The AMG CLS 63 S builds upon the already impressive CLS 550 foundation, incorporating a host of performance and luxury enhancements. Beyond the upgraded engine, it features 19-inch wheels fitted with summer tires for superior grip. Upgraded brakes provide enhanced stopping power, while a limited-slip differential optimizes traction during spirited driving. A sport exhaust system amplifies the V8 engine’s soundtrack, and unique AMG styling elements distinguish it visually. Front and rear parking sensors and an automated parallel parking system are also standard, along with upgraded LED headlights. Inside, special gauges and interior trim, a sport steering wheel, an IWC Ingenieur analog clock, more aggressively bolstered sport seats, a power rear sunshade, and upgraded leather upholstery complete the transformation.
Most of the option packages available for the CLS 550 are also offered for the AMG CLS 63 S, with similar contents. For ultimate braking performance, carbon-ceramic brakes are available as a stand-alone option.
Conclusion
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class delivers a compelling proposition for those seeking a luxurious and performance-oriented vehicle. Whether opting for the refined power of the CLS 550 or the exhilarating performance of the AMG CLS 63 S, drivers are treated to a meticulously crafted automobile that embodies Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to excellence. This model year continues to solidify the CLS-Class’s position as a leader in the luxury coupe sedan segment, appealing to discerning individuals who appreciate both style and substance.
