Used Mercedes-Benz CLS for sale: everything you need to know

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is an iconic executive car that offers luxury, comfort and style and has done so since it began in 2004. This is built to sit between the premium S-Class and E-Class models from the company.

While you can buy a used estate, shooting brake model, the Mercedes CLS is generally found as a four-door coupe. The first gen ran from 2004 to 2010 and the second generation was available from 2011 to 2018. 

Closest to an executive saloon, this doesn't quite fit into any box yet excels at what it does offer with composure on the road where the worst issue is a little roll in the corners. But with a decent sized boot, lots of safety features and plenty of luxury as standard this car really does cover a lot of use cases.

Across the two generations there have been quite a few engine options that include the CLS 320 CDI diesel right through to the CLS 500 which packs a 5.5-litre V8 petrol. So there should be something for everyone. 

The steering is very light on this large car which helps with parking. Plus, with a selection of suspension modes to buy, you can get the right fit for the style of driving you need. Optional air suspension is a useful feature for those that want ultimate comfort. 

Key rivals for the Mercedes-Benz CLS include the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe for great economy or the Audi A7 for engine choice and decent boot size.

Should you buy a used Mercedes-Benz CLS?

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is a car well suited to motorway driving but can also handle capably and comfortably in the city, making it a real all rounder.

There are more economical diesel engines which still manage to offer enough punch to give good performance when needed. In all cases you can expect comfortable interiors and a ride that is what puts this in the luxury range of cars.

While the older models look a little dated inside now, they were so ahead of their time originally that they hold up still now. That means information screens in the centre console, steering-wheel controls, and premium upholstery.

Splash out a little and there are lots of extras available like Harman & Kardon sound systems, electrically adjustable front seats, keyless entry, electric sunroof, reversing camera and more.

The bodykit varies with more sporty AMG options coming with a far more aggressive look around the front grille, spoiler and exhaust. But in all cases you can expect light and responsive steering that's as helpful as speed as it is when parking.

There are two trims of AMG and AMG 53 but lots of engine choices with at least two diesel and three petrol choices to pick from.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS offers an impressive safety tech and a large boot of up to 520-litres that makes this a capable executive car even when travelling with lots of luggage. It could also function as a family car with plenty of room in the rear seats with lots of leg space.

A Mercedes-Benz CLS not for you? We've got 1000s of used cars for sale to suit all budgets and needs.

What’s the best used Mercedes-Benz CLS model to buy?

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is available in several engine sizes called 350d, 400d, 350, 450 and AMG 53. This has technically one trim, AMG Line but there is also the AMG 53.

The entry level AMG Line is still crammed with features and luxuries including lots of leather, ambient lighting, reversing camera and large central display screen. The newer models feature parking assistance as standard too.

Go for the AMG 53 line and you get a premium body kit for that aggressive look as well as more unique alloy wheels that make this stand out. Plus you get special paint and interior trim options that are unique to this line.

All the options come with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty as standard from Mercedes.

Used Mercedes-Benz CLS fuel economy and performance

• Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 petrol: This model comes with a 2.0-litre petrol engine that offers 299 BHP for a 0-62 MPH time of 6-seconds and a fuel economy topping out at 34.9 MPG.
• Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 petrol: This model features a larger 3.0-litre petrol engine with 367 BHP for a 0-62 MPH time of 4.8-seconds and about 34 MPG.
• Mercedes-Benz CLS AMG 53 petrol: This 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine gives out 435 BHP for a 0-62 MPH time of 4.5-seconds and a fuel economy of 31 MPG at best.
• Mercedes-Benz CLS 350d diesel: This model comes with a 2.9-litre diesel that offers 286 BHP for a 0-62 MPH time of 5.7-seconds and a fuel economy topping out at 41.5 MPG.
• Mercedes-Benz CLS 400d diesel: This 2.9-litre six-cylinder diesel offers 340 BHP for a 0-62 MPH time of 5-seconds and 41.5 MPG fuel economy.

What used Mercedes-Benz CLS trim levels are available?

• The Mercedes-Benz CLS AMG Line gets you lots of leather inside, smart driving assistance in newer models and reversing camera.
• The Mercedes-Benz CLS AMG 53 adds a sporty bodykit, special paints and interior options.

Mercedes-Benz CLS dimensions and boot size

The Mercedes-Benz CLS’s dimensions are: 

• Length: 4988-5012mm 
• Width: 1890-1896mm 
• Height: 1422-1435mm

The Mercedes-Benz CLS’s boot size is: 

• 490-520 litres

Used Mercedes-Benz CLS road tax

The Mercedes-Benz CLS ranges from band M for the older models and goes right up to E for more modern models meaning prices range from the standard £180 per year to £570 for some models.

How much is it to insure a Mercedes-Benz CLS? 

The Mercedes-Benz CLS starts at insurance group 39 and moves right up to 48 meaning this is one of the more premium cars to insure.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz CLS review