The 2012 Mercedes Cls 550 marked a significant step in the evolution of luxury coupes, blending stunning design with powerful performance and a suite of advanced features. This model year continued the CLS-Class tradition of offering a unique four-door coupe silhouette with the sophistication and technology expected from Mercedes-Benz. Let’s delve into the standard equipment, performance metrics, and available options that made the 2012 CLS 550 a standout in its class.
The 2012 Mercedes CLS 550 came generously equipped with a focus on both comfort and cutting-edge technology. The interior was a sanctuary of luxury, featuring Full Leather Interior and refined Burl Walnut Wood Trim that exuded elegance. Occupants were enveloped in comfort with 14-way Power Adjustable Front Seats including memory functions for seats, steering column, and exterior mirrors, ensuring the perfect driving position. The 4-Way Power Tilt and Telescoping Steering Column further enhanced driver ergonomics. For climate control, the Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control system provided personalized comfort for both driver and passenger.
Technologically, the 2012 CLS 550 was ahead of its time. The centerpiece was the COMAND system with a 40GB Hard-Drive GPS Navigation, guiding drivers with ease. Entertainment was provided by a premium 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 connectivity options like Bluetooth interface, Voice Control, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. For added convenience, the CLS 550 included features such as Remote Central Locking with SmartKey, Power Windows with Express Up and Down, an Auto-dimming Driver and Rearview mirror, and an Integrated Garage Door Opener. The Power Tilt/Sliding Sunroof with One Touch Open/Close brought natural light into the cabin, and Multi-color Ambient Lighting allowed for customization of the interior atmosphere. Even practicalities like Intermittent Wipers with Rain Sensor were standard, enhancing the driving experience.
Under the hood, the 2012 Mercedes CLS 550 delivered impressive Performance/Handling. Its robust engine produced 402 hp @ 5,250 rpm and a substantial 443 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800-4,750 rpm. This power translated to a brisk Acceleration (0 – 60 mph) of 5.1 seconds and a Top Speed of 130 mph (Electronically Limited). The 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission with Sport and Economy Shift Modes and Steering Wheel Shift Paddles offered a versatile driving experience, adapting to both spirited driving and fuel-conscious cruising. Handling was refined thanks to Electro Hydraulic Power-assisted Speed-sensitive Rack-and-Pinion Steering and the sophisticated AIRMATIC Semi-active Suspension with Adaptive Damping System. The suspension setup included a 4-link Independent Front Suspension and a Multilink Independent Rear Suspension, ensuring a balance of comfort and control. Braking was powerful and confident with Internally Ventilated 14.2″ front Discs and 12.6″ rear Discs. A Dual Exhaust with Chrome Tailpipes not only looked sporty but also contributed to the engine’s breathing and sound.
Safety/Security was paramount in the design of the 2012 CLS 550. It incorporated advanced systems like ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness monitor and the mbrace System for enhanced safety and connectivity. Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety was further evidenced by features like a Steel Reinforced Cabin with Front and Rear Crumple Zones, 3-Point Seatbelts with Pre-tensioners and Force Limiters, and a comprehensive airbag system including Front Dual Stage Airbags, Front Pelvic Airbags, Front and Rear Side Window Airbags, Front and Rear Side Airbags, and Dual Front Knee Airbags. NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints and the ISOFIX Anchor and Tether System added further layers of protection. Active safety systems included 4-Wheel Disc Brakes with ABS & BAS, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), PRE-SAFE (Predictive Protection System), and a Roll-Over Sensor. Security features encompassed an Anti-Theft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer, Night Security Illumination, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and a Panic Button Remote Key. Bi-Xenon Headlamps provided excellent nighttime visibility.
The 2012 CLS 550 rolled on 18″ Staggered-width 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels paired with All-Season Tires, sized 255/40 R18 in the front and 285/35 R18 in the rear, ensuring a balanced stance and grip.
For buyers seeking even more features, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of Optional Packages. The Premium 1 Package added desirable features like a Rearview Camera, Heated & Active Ventilated Front Seats, an iPod/MP3 Media Interface, Power Rear-Window Sunshade, Headlamp Cleaning System, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Full-LED Headlamps, LED Daytime Running Lights, KEYLESS-GO, Electronic Trunk Closer, and Corner-Illuminating Lamps. Safety-focused packages included the Lane Tracking Package with Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, and the Driver Assistance Package which featured DISTRONIC PLUS (with PRE-SAFE Brake), Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. For a sportier aesthetic, the Sport Package and Sport Package Plus One offered AMG enhancements such as AMG Sport Steering Wheel, AMG Body Styling, and AMG Alloy Wheels in 18″ or 19″ sizes, along with tire upgrades.
Stand Alone Options allowed further customization with items like 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 w/Pedestrian Detection.
The 2012 Mercedes CLS 550 offered a wide palette of Paint options, ranging from classic Black and Obsidian Black to vibrant Zircon Red and sophisticated metallic hues like Iridium Silver and Diamond White. Upholstery choices included various leather finishes in colors like Almond/Mocha, Ash/Black, and Black, with Premium Leather upgrades available. Optional Trim choices extended to Black Ash wood, allowing buyers to tailor the interior to their personal taste.
In conclusion, the 2012 Mercedes CLS 550 was a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and innovation. Its powerful engine, combined with a lavishly appointed interior and a wealth of technology and safety features, made it a desirable choice for discerning buyers in the luxury coupe segment. Whether appreciating its standard features or exploring the extensive list of optional enhancements, the CLS 550 offered a driving experience that was both exhilarating and refined.
