The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class marked a significant evolution of a vehicle that pioneered a completely new automotive category – the four-door coupe. In a constantly evolving and fiercely competitive industry, the CLS carved out its niche by seamlessly blending the emotional allure and dynamic aesthetics of a coupe with the comfort and practicality expected from a sedan. The CLS was truly groundbreaking as the first four-door vehicle to achieve this unique combination.
Arguably the most visually striking Mercedes-Benz in their lineup, the 2012 CLS boasts enhanced and distinctive body lines, further emphasizing its coupe-like silhouette. Slightly larger than its predecessor, the new CLS is approximately 1.2 inches longer and 0.3 inches wider, offering a more commanding presence. Strategically positioned within the Mercedes-Benz coupe family, the CLS bridges the gap between the S-Class-based CL coupe and the E-Class coupe. This intelligent approach leverages existing chassis and powertrain technologies while preserving the unique character and identity of each model.
A Legacy of Coupe Excellence
Mercedes-Benz has a rich history of producing iconic coupe models, deeply ingrained in their design heritage. The legendary 300SL “Gullwing” from the mid-1950s immediately springs to mind, but its legacy is built upon earlier models like the 1936 Type 380 and the elegant 300S from the early 1950s. Even in the 1930s, certain four-door models, such as the long-wheelbase 200 and 290 “Streamliners,” exhibited coupe-esque lines and are considered by some to be precursors to the CLS. Beginning with the 220S “Ponton” in 1956, a succession of stunning Mercedes-Benz coupes, based on the E-Class and S-Class sedans, graced the roads for decades. These models paved the way for the emergence of distinct coupe classes like the CLK and the larger CL-Class, setting the stage for the revolutionary CLS.
US Market Introduction and Powertrain Options
The 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS line made its debut in the U.S. market in June 2011, offering two compelling models, both powered by new biturbo, direct-injection V8 engines. The CLS550 is equipped with a 4.6-liter engine generating 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, providing robust performance and refined power delivery. For those seeking even greater performance, the CLS63 AMG model features a potent 5.5-liter version of the new V8, producing an impressive 518 hp and 516 lb.-ft of torque. This high-performance variant delivers exhilarating acceleration and dynamic driving capabilities.
Both CLS models come standard with seven-speed automatic transmissions. However, the CLS63 AMG distinguishes itself with an MCT (multi-clutch technology) sports transmission. This innovative transmission utilizes a start-up clutch instead of a traditional torque converter, offering the direct responsiveness of a manual transmission combined with the convenience of an automatic. The MCT transmission provides remarkable versatility and quicker gear changes, enhancing the sporty driving experience.
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2012 CLS comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies, including PRE-SAFE, ABS anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, traction control, and ESP electronic stability control. For enhanced driver assistance, DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE Brake is available as an option, along with Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, further enhancing safety and driver confidence.
Exterior Design: A Study in Sleekness and Strength
Sweeping Lines and Muscular Stance
The 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS coupe showcases refined proportions, featuring a more assertive front-end design and a sportier overall stance. Its sculpted form is defined by a sleek, sweeping silhouette, embodying a timeless coupe aesthetic that conveys both energy and power. The graceful roofline seamlessly flows into the C-pillar, creating a dramatic arc that extends across the entire body. The CLS exemplifies modern Mercedes-Benz design with its subtle interplay of taut lines and naturally curved surfaces. This is evident in its arching profile, sculpted rear fenders, and extended overhangs at the front and rear, all contributing to its sophisticated and elongated shape.
Alt text: Sleek side profile of a 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS showcasing its coupe silhouette and elegant lines.
Aerodynamic Efficiency
The 2012 CLS is engineered for aerodynamic excellence, achieving an impressive drag coefficient of 0.28, a notable improvement over its predecessor. This efficiency is attributed to its streamlined body shape, along with specialized underbody paneling, redesigned outside mirror housings, and optimized contours of the front and rear aprons and trunk lid. Mercedes-Benz employs advanced wind tunnel testing, including rotating wheels on conveyor belts, to simulate real-world driving conditions. This allows engineers to accurately assess the impact of wheel rotation on drag and lift forces, informing the design of underfloor paneling and wheel spoilers.
AMG Exterior Enhancements
The CLS63 AMG is instantly recognizable with its aggressive front apron, featuring distinctive side air vents with black grilles and eye-catching LED daytime running lights. Its unique front grille incorporates a prominent Mercedes-Benz star and a single lamella grille slat with a black accent. At the rear, the AMG model includes an integrated lip spoiler on the trunk lid, enhancing high-speed stability by reducing rear lift by approximately 26 percent. A black air diffuser is positioned between the quad exhaust tips, further accentuating its sporty character.
Alt text: Front view of a 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS 63 AMG highlighting its distinctive AMG grille and aggressive front fascia.
Advanced Visibility Features
Aerodynamic considerations also contribute to improved visibility in wet weather. Aluminum channels integrated into the A-pillars effectively channel rainwater away from the windshield and onto the roof, where it flows into a drainage channel near the rear window. The driver’s side windshield wiper has a fixed pivot point, while the passenger-side wiper utilizes an eccentric sweep pattern to maximize the cleared area.
Mercedes aero wipers, a single-piece design with integrated leaf springs and an aero spoiler, replace traditional articulated wiper blades. This design enhances wiping performance, reduces wind resistance, and minimizes ice buildup in cold climates. A standard rain sensor automatically adjusts wiper speed based on rain intensity. When wipers are off, heating elements at the windshield base warm the wiper arms in low temperatures. The windshield washing system utilizes three electrically heated water nozzles.
High-pressure jet washers clean the headlight lenses. Telescopic arms with twin nozzles extend from beneath each headlight using water pressure, retracting back into the bumper after use.
Bi-Xenon HID Headlights and Optional LED Technology
Standard bi-xenon high-intensity gas-discharge headlights (HID) provide superior nighttime visibility compared to conventional halogen lights. The bi-xenon headlight modules feature two “eyes”: the outer one for low and high beams, and the inner one as an LED running light. LED turn signals encircle the assembly in a distinctive “C” shape. The headlights are self-leveling, maintaining proper aim during braking, acceleration, and various vehicle loads.
Optional full LED headlights represent a technological advancement from Mercedes-Benz. These LEDs produce bright white light while consuming less energy and offering longer lifespan compared to conventional headlights. LED turn signals are positioned at the top, and a perimeter LED light in a “C” shape surrounds the low beam array. The high beam is located at the bottom, and a striking row of LED daytime running lights sits below in the bumper. Despite LEDs generating less heat, small fans ensure optimal cooling, and warm air is circulated to defrost lenses in cold weather.
Active Light Systems for Enhanced Cornering
The 2012 CLS lighting system incorporates active-curve technology, allowing headlights to swivel up to 15 degrees in either direction with steering input, illuminating upcoming curves. The system adapts to vehicle speed, enhancing visibility around curves by approximately 80 feet compared to fixed lights.
Separate cornering lights activate at low speeds when headlights are on and turn signals are used or the steering wheel is turned. These lights illuminate the vehicle’s side up to 65 degrees and a distance of 40 feet, fading in and out smoothly for comfortable eye adjustment.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist
A windshield-mounted camera powers the Adaptive Highbeam Assist, detecting headlights and taillights of other vehicles and automatically adjusting between high and low beams to prevent glare. This system provides a continuously variable headlight range from 220 feet up to 1,000 feet, optimizing visibility without dazzling other drivers.
Rear LED Lighting
The rear light housings feature LED taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and side markers, with conventional backup lights in the center. An LED center brake light is integrated into the rear window, and an LED rear fog light is recessed in the bumper.
Free-Standing Mirrors
Inspired by motorsports, the CLS features free-standing outside mirrors instead of traditional triangular modules. Each mirror includes an integrated turn signal indicator, and models equipped with optional Blind Spot Assist incorporate a small warning triangle in the mirror glass. The outside mirrors are auto-dimming and electrically heated for cold weather conditions.
Interior Design: Flowing Lines and Premium Comfort
Seamless Integration of Exterior and Interior Design
The flowing exterior lines seamlessly transition into the 2012 CLS interior, visually connecting the dashboard and doors to the rear of the vehicle. The center console and transmission tunnel converge towards the rear, elegantly dividing the two rear seats and creating a coupe-like ambiance.
Increased exterior dimensions translate to enhanced interior space in the new CLS. Front shoulder room is increased by 0.8 inches, and rear shoulder room by 0.5 inches. Front elbow room gains 0.3 inches, while rear elbow room increases by 0.8 inches, providing a more spacious and comfortable cabin.
The large rear doors are a defining feature of this coupe-inspired sedan, offering practical rear passenger access and complementing the comfortable rear seating area. Leather and wood accents adorn most interior surfaces, with natural-grain leather and a selection of wood trims available for the dashboard.
Dashboard Design and Noise Reduction
The dashboard’s flowing design is enhanced by its soft-touch polyurethane skin, sprayed onto the base material for a luxurious feel and appearance. This production technique allows for seamless integration of elements like air vents and eliminates unsightly panel seams. Even the passenger-side front airbag cover features an invisible seam.
The dashboard incorporates sound-dampening design and front insulation to minimize engine noise entering the cabin. Airtight seals around cable and wire openings between the interior and engine compartment eliminate potential sound bridges, contributing to a quiet and refined driving experience.
A robust steel cross member provides a strong anchor for the dashboard and its components. The radio, automatic climate control, instrument cluster, and steering column are all securely mounted to this structure, minimizing vibration and contributing to low interior noise levels.
New Cockpit Layout and Technology Integration
The driver-focused cockpit features a three-tube instrument cluster with a central analog speedometer incorporating a versatile color display. The left tube houses analog gauges for fuel level and coolant temperature, while the right tube contains an analog tachometer. A large display for the COMAND system is positioned atop a sweeping console, with an analog clock below, flanked by air vents. A switch panel below houses controls for features like heated seats, hazard warning lights, and PARKTRONIC. The climate control system panel is located below the switches. The COMAND central controller, a rotary push-button similar to a computer mouse, is located between the seats, along with a large double cupholder and a storage compartment with a 12-volt socket, audio AUX-IN jack, and optional iPod-MP3 media interface.
AMG Interior Appointments
The CLS63 AMG interior welcomes the driver with AMG door sill panels and AMG sport pedals with rubber studs in brushed stainless steel. Upon opening the door, a three-dimensional TFT display in the speedometer showcases a striking AMG logo.
AMG-specific menus include “Warm Up” mode displaying oil and coolant temperature, “Set Up” indicating ESP mode, suspension setting (Comfort or Sport), and transmission mode (“C,” “S,” “S+,” “M”). “RACE” mode includes a race timer for track driving.
A dedicated AMG DRIVE UNIT on the console, angled towards the driver, provides easy access to MCT sports transmission modes, ESP functions, suspension setup, and AMG drive modes. A park lock can be engaged via the “P” button.
COMAND System and Connectivity
The COMAND system features a seven-inch TFT color display screen and intuitive controls for the audio system, including AM/FM/weatherband/satellite/HD digital radio, Bluetooth, MP3 capability with Music Register, a PCMCIA card slot, and GPS satellite navigation. A six-disc CD-DVD player connected to the Gracenote database displays artist name, genre, track titles, and lengths. The navigation computer utilizes a dedicated hard drive for North American map data.
An optional rearview camera, discreetly integrated into the trunk lid, displays the area behind the vehicle on the COMAND screen when reverse is engaged. Enhanced optics minimize distortion, and static guidelines overlaid on the screen aid parking and maneuvering, especially on uneven terrain.
Premium Audio Experience
A standard harman/kardon Logic 7 digital surround-sound system with Dolby Surround 5.1 delivers a luxurious audio experience. Two 610-watt amplifiers power 14 speakers and a subwoofer. All amplifier channels feature individually tuned frequency response, and the system includes speed-dependent volume control.
Antennas for radio, GPS navigation, mbrace system, and telephone are roof-mounted ahead of the rear window. A secondary radio antenna is integrated into the rear window glass, and phase diversity within the audio system optimizes signal reception.
Dual-Zone Climate Control and Air Quality Management
Dual-zone climate control allows independent temperature settings for each front seat occupant. The system monitors sunlight intensity and automatically adjusts temperature and airflow accordingly.
A multifunction sensor monitors humidity and pollutant levels in ambient air. If nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide levels exceed thresholds, the climate control system automatically switches to air recirculation mode when using the activated charcoal filter.
When air conditioning is not needed, a sensor monitors for windshield fogging and activates the AC compressor for dehumidification if necessary. This intelligent system optimizes compressor operation for fuel efficiency and minimizes potential “dry eyes” discomfort.
Multifunction Steering Wheel and Display
A power-adjustable steering wheel features illuminated rocker buttons for convenient control of numerous comfort and convenience functions. Two button clusters access over 50 functions, including trip odometers, trip computer with fuel range, audio system controls, vehicle diagnostics messages, clock, interior light dimming, and language settings.
The wheel-mounted buttons and multifunction display within the speedometer allow drivers to navigate through various “windows” and sub-menus, displaying radio station information, phonebook access, navigation instructions, and technical fault details in plain text.
First-Class Seating and Comfort Options
Standard 14-way power-adjustable seats include a new four-way power lumbar adjustment. Familiar Mercedes-Benz pictogram seat controls are conveniently located on the door panel. Seat positions, along with steering wheel and exterior mirror positions, can be stored in memory for up to three individuals. Two keys provided with the car enable two drivers to program their personalized settings.
An added convenience feature activates when exiting the vehicle: upon SmartKey removal, the steering wheel automatically moves upward and the seat moves rearward for easier egress. Both seat and steering wheel return to their saved positions when the driver is seated and the SmartKey is inserted.
AMG Sport Seats and Premium Upholstery
The CLS63 AMG features AMG sport seats upholstered in soft nappa leather with cross-stitching. The rear seats are contoured to match the front seats. Leather trim extends throughout the cabin, including the steering wheel, shift handle, and door panels.
Heated and Ventilated Seats
The Premium 1 option package offers active ventilated seats, a feature initially introduced in the S-Class. Miniature fans within each front seat draw air from the footwell – cool air in summer, warm air in winter. Air flows through specialized ducting and permeable fabric, evenly distributing from the perforated leather upholstery for rapid cooling of sun-heated seats. Airflow intensity is adjustable through three settings.
Multi-Contour Seats with Drive-Dynamic Function
Optional multi-contour driver’s seats can be equipped with a Drive-Dynamic feature, enhancing lateral support during cornering. When the vehicle enters a turn, the outside bolster of the seatback inflates, providing increased lateral support. The Drive-Dynamic feature uses steering angle, lateral acceleration, and vehicle speed data to determine bolster inflation level and speed.
KEYLESS GO Convenience
The KEYLESS GO system utilizes multiple transceiver antennas within the car to detect the presence of the SmartKey fob. With the fob in a pocket or bag, simply pulling a door handle unlocks the vehicle.
Starting the engine requires depressing the brake pedal and pressing a button on the dashboard. KEYLESS GO also prevents keys from being locked in the trunk. If keys are inadvertently placed in the trunk and the lid is closed, it will automatically pop open within a few seconds.
Parktronic and Active Parking Assist
Parktronic employs ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers to detect obstacles. Audible warnings and bar graph displays on the center dashboard (front) and rearview mirror (rear) indicate obstacle proximity.
Active Parking Assist, integrating sonar-based Parktronic and electric steering assist, simplifies parallel parking. Below 20 mph, a “P” icon appears on the dash, indicating active parking space search. When a suitable parking space is detected, an arrow appears next to the “P” icon. Engaging reverse and confirming Active Parking Assist initiates automatic steering, while the driver controls acceleration and braking below 7 mph. The system allows for two forward corrections before straightening the wheels.
Electronic Trunk Closer
The CLS offers an optional remote electronic trunk closer. A button on the driver’s door or remote control electrically opens the trunk lid via an electric motor and springs. Pressing a button on the inside of the lid or on the driver’s door closes the lid. A servo locking mechanism ensures complete latching. For safety, the lid is designed to stop closing if resistance is encountered before latching.
The 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS stands as a testament to innovative design and engineering, seamlessly blending coupe aesthetics with sedan practicality, and continuing Mercedes-Benz’s legacy of automotive excellence.
