The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class marked a significant evolution for a vehicle that essentially pioneered a new automotive category: the four-door coupe. This model year wasn’t just a refresh; it was a comprehensive redesign that amplified the CLS’s unique blend of coupe aesthetics and sedan practicality, further cementing its status as a design icon in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. For those seeking a vehicle that marries emotional styling with everyday usability, the Mercedes Cls 2012 continues to be a compelling choice.
A Legacy of Coupe Design
Mercedes-Benz boasts a rich history of crafting iconic coupes, a lineage that the CLS proudly carries forward. While the legendary 300SL “Gullwing” of the 1950s often takes center stage, Mercedes’ coupe heritage extends back to models like the 1936 Type 380 and the elegant 300S of the early 1950s. Even in their four-door sedans of the 1930s, like the long-wheelbase 200 and 290 “Streamliners,” a hint of coupe-like styling was evident, foreshadowing the future CLS. From the 220S “Ponton” onwards, Mercedes consistently produced beautiful coupes based on their E-Class and S-Class platforms, ultimately leading to the creation of distinct coupe classes like the CLK and the larger CL-Class. The Mercedes CLS 2012 is a direct descendant of this prestigious lineage, embodying decades of design innovation and automotive excellence.
U.S. Market Introduction and Powertrain Options
The Mercedes CLS 2012 arrived in the U.S. market in June 2011, presenting two distinct yet equally impressive models, both powered by advanced biturbo, direct-injection V8 engines. The CLS550 featured a 4.6-liter engine generating 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, providing a potent combination of performance and refinement. For enthusiasts craving even more power, the CLS63 AMG model was equipped with a 5.5-liter version of the new V8, unleashing a remarkable 518 hp and 516 lb.-ft of torque. This high-performance variant elevated the Mercedes CLS 2012 into the realm of true sports coupes, while retaining the four-door practicality.
Both CLS models were equipped with seven-speed automatic transmissions. However, the CLS63 AMG distinguished itself with an MCT (multi-clutch technology) sports transmission. This innovative transmission replaced the traditional torque converter with a start-up clutch, offering the direct responsiveness of a manual gearbox with the ease of an automatic. The MCT transmission delivered impressive versatility and quicker gear changes, further enhancing the driving experience of the Mercedes CLS 2012 AMG model.
Standard across the Mercedes CLS 2012 range was a comprehensive suite of Mercedes-Benz safety technologies, including PRE-SAFE®, ABS anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, traction control, and ESP® electronic stability control. Optional advanced safety systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS® with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist were also available, demonstrating Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety innovation in the Mercedes CLS 2012.
Exterior Design: Sweeping Lines and Aerodynamic Efficiency
The exterior of the Mercedes CLS 2012 is a masterclass in automotive design, characterized by sweeping lines and taut surfaces that convey both dynamism and elegance. The refined proportions included a more assertive front end and a sportier overall stance compared to its predecessor. Its muscular form and sleek silhouette are instantly recognizable as a modern Mercedes-Benz coupe, exuding energy and power. The graceful roofline seamlessly flows into the C-pillar, creating a dramatic arc that defines the car’s profile. The interplay of taut lines and rounded forms, a signature of contemporary Mercedes-Benz design, is particularly evident in the Mercedes CLS 2012‘s arching profile and sculpted rear fenders.
Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the design of the Mercedes CLS 2012. Achieving an impressive drag coefficient of 0.28, a significant improvement over the previous model, was the result of meticulous engineering. This aerodynamic efficiency was achieved through a combination of factors, including the sleek body shape, special underbody paneling, redesigned outside mirror housings, and optimized contours of the front and rear aprons and trunk lid. Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to real-world testing, using conveyor belts in wind tunnels to simulate rotating wheels, allowed engineers to fine-tune the underfloor paneling and wheel spoilers for optimal aerodynamic performance in the Mercedes CLS 2012.
The CLS63 AMG variant received distinctive AMG styling cues to visually differentiate it. A deep front apron with prominent side air vents featuring black grilles, flanked by LED daytime running lights, made a bold statement. The unique front grille incorporated a large Mercedes-Benz star and a single lamella grille slat with a black accent. At the rear, an integrated lip spoiler on the trunk lid and a black air diffuser between the dual twin exhaust tips further enhanced the sporty and aggressive appearance of the Mercedes CLS 2012 AMG.
Attention to detail extended to features that enhanced visibility in inclement weather. Aluminum channels in the A-pillars effectively directed rainwater away from the windshield, while advanced wiper technology, including Mercedes aero wipers with integral leaf springs and aero spoilers, provided superior wiping performance and reduced ice buildup. A rain sensor automatically regulated wiper speed based on rain intensity. Heated windshield wiper rests and electrically heated windshield washer nozzles further demonstrated the Mercedes CLS 2012‘s focus on driver convenience and safety in all conditions. High-pressure headlight cleaning jets were also integrated, ensuring optimal visibility from the standard bi-xenon HID headlights.
The Mercedes CLS 2012 offered optional full LED headlights, a groundbreaking technology at the time. These LED headlights provided exceptional white light, consumed less energy, and offered longer lifespans compared to conventional headlights. They also incorporated active-curve technology, allowing the headlights to turn with the steering wheel, illuminating corners and significantly improving visibility around curves, a key safety feature of the Mercedes CLS 2012. Adaptive Highbeam Assist, using a windshield-mounted camera, automatically adjusted between high and low beams to avoid dazzling other drivers, further enhancing nighttime driving safety. Rear LED lights for taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and side markers ensured excellent visibility from the rear as well.
Free-standing outside mirrors, inspired by motorsports design, added a distinctive touch to the Mercedes CLS 2012‘s exterior. These mirrors incorporated integrated turn signal indicators and, if equipped with Blind Spot Assist, a warning triangle. They were also auto-dimming and electrically heated for added convenience and safety.
Interior Design: Flowing Lines and Luxurious Comfort
The sweeping exterior lines of the Mercedes CLS 2012 seamlessly transitioned into the interior, creating a cohesive and luxurious cabin environment. The dashboard and door panels visually flowed into the rear of the vehicle, while the center console and transmission tunnel gracefully divided the two rear seats. Increased exterior dimensions translated to more interior space, particularly in shoulder and elbow room for both front and rear passengers. The large rear doors provided practical access to the comfortable rear seating area, a key differentiator for the four-door coupe design. Premium materials, including leather and wood trim, adorned most interior surfaces, with natural-grain leather and a choice of wood finishes for the dashboard, creating a sophisticated and inviting ambiance within the Mercedes CLS 2012.
The dashboard design emphasized flowing lines and a luxurious feel. A soft-touch polyurethane skin, sprayed onto the base material, provided a high-quality appearance and eliminated panel seams. Sound-dampening design and insulation in the dashboard, along with airtight seals for cable and wire openings, minimized engine noise intrusion into the cabin, ensuring a quiet and refined driving experience in the Mercedes CLS 2012. A robust steel cross member provided a solid anchor for the dashboard components, further reducing vibration and noise levels.
The cockpit design of the Mercedes CLS 2012 was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. A three-tube instrument cluster featured an analog speedometer with a versatile color display, flanked by analog gauges for fuel and temperature, and a tachometer. The COMAND system display was positioned atop a sweeping console, complemented by an analog clock and fresh air vents. Ergonomically placed switches for features like heated seats and climate control, along with the COMAND central controller located between the seats, provided intuitive access to vehicle functions.
The AMG interior of the Mercedes CLS 2012 CLS63 AMG model elevated the sporty character of the vehicle. AMG door sill panels, AMG sport pedals in brushed stainless steel, and an AMG logo displayed on the speedometer’s TFT screen upon entry created a distinct AMG ambiance. AMG-specific menus within the instrument cluster provided performance-oriented information, including engine and transmission data, and a race timer. The AMG DRIVE UNIT on the console, angled towards the driver, offered direct control over transmission modes, ESP settings, suspension setup, and AMG drive modes, enhancing the driver-focused experience of the Mercedes CLS 2012 AMG.
Technology and Convenience Features
The Mercedes CLS 2012 was equipped with the COMAND system, featuring a seven-inch TFT color display and intuitive controls for audio, media, communication, and navigation functions. The system included AM/FM/weatherband/satellite/HD digital radio, Bluetooth, MP3 capability, a PCMCIA card slot, and GPS navigation. A six-disc CD/DVD player with Gracenote database integration provided enhanced media enjoyment. An optional rear-view camera, seamlessly integrated into the trunk lid, displayed the area behind the vehicle on the COMAND screen, aiding in parking and maneuvering.
A standard harman/kardon Logic 7 digital surround-sound system delivered a premium audio experience in the Mercedes CLS 2012. Utilizing two amplifiers and 14 speakers, including a subwoofer, the system provided a rich and immersive sound studio listening experience. Dual-zone climate control, with automatic adjustments based on sunlight and humidity sensors, ensured optimal cabin comfort for both front occupants. A multifunction sensor monitored air quality and automatically switched to recirculation mode if pollutant levels exceeded thresholds.
The Mercedes CLS 2012 featured a multifunction steering wheel with illuminated rocker buttons, providing convenient control over various vehicle functions, including trip computer, audio system, phone, and vehicle settings. Power-adjustable front seats with 14-way adjustability and four-way power lumbar support ensured optimal seating comfort. Memory functions for seat, steering wheel, and mirror positions, along with automatic adjustments for entry and exit, added to the convenience. Optional active ventilated seats, multi-contour seats with Drive-Dynamic feature for enhanced lateral support during cornering, and KEYLESS GO system further elevated the luxury and convenience features of the Mercedes CLS 2012. Parking assistance features like Parktronic and Active Parking Assist, along with an optional electronic trunk closer, enhanced ease of use and practicality.
The Mercedes CLS 2012 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the four-door coupe, blending striking design, powerful performance, luxurious comfort, and advanced technology. It solidified the CLS-Class’s position as a leader in its segment and continues to be admired for its groundbreaking combination of coupe styling and sedan functionality.
