Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218 facelift, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 250 BlueTEC (204 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | December, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.5-5.6 l/100 km (42.8 – 42 US mpg, 51.4 – 50.4 UK mpg, 18.2 – 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.1-4.2 l/100 km (57.4 – 56 US mpg, 68.9 – 67.3 UK mpg, 24.4 – 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.6-4.7 l/100 km (51.1 – 50 US mpg, 61.4 – 60.1 UK mpg, 21.7 – 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 120-123 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 242 km/h (150.37 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 287.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 95.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1600-1800 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1600-1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.924 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 475 l (16.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25.5 l (6.74 US gal | 5.61 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4937 mm (194.37 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2075 mm (81.69 in.) |
| Height | 1418 mm (55.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 898 mm (35.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1165 mm (45.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.18 m (36.68 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 BlueTEC, part of the C218 facelift generation produced from July 2014 to December 2017, represented a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and performance within the four-door coupe segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the CLS lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a sophisticated grand tourer with lower running costs than the more powerful CLS 350 or AMG variants. This model combined a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine with the advanced 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, offering a refined driving experience and impressive fuel economy. The C218 facelift brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the original C218 platform, solidifying the CLS’s position as a design leader.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 250 BlueTEC is the OM 651.924 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a highly refined unit, featuring common-rail direct injection and a sophisticated two-stage turbocharging system. The first turbocharger is a variable geometry turbine (VGT) that provides boost at low engine speeds, minimizing turbo lag and improving responsiveness. The second, smaller turbocharger, kicks in at higher RPMs to maintain power output. This configuration delivers a broad torque curve, peaking at 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) between 1600 and 1800 rpm. The engine also incorporates an intercooler to further enhance performance. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission is a key component of the powertrain. Its wide gear ratio spread allows for both relaxed cruising at low engine speeds and quick acceleration when needed. The transmission features smooth and precise shifts, contributing to a refined driving experience. A start-stop system is standard, further improving fuel efficiency in urban driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 250 BlueTEC 9G-TRONIC offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered CLS variants, it provides ample performance for everyday driving and long-distance cruising. The 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque translate to a 0-60 mph time of around 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 242 km/h (150.37 mph). The 9G-TRONIC transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and almost imperceptible gear changes. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, keeping engine speeds low during highway driving. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other CLS models, the 9G-TRONIC prioritizes comfort and ease of use over outright driver engagement. The CLS 250 BlueTEC feels more relaxed and refined than the more performance-oriented trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 250 BlueTEC typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a high-resolution infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of safety features such as adaptive brake assist, collision prevention assist, and attention assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, advanced driver assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring), and various interior trim options. The interior design mirrored that of other C218 CLS models, with a focus on luxury and sophistication. The dashboard layout was clean and modern, with high-quality materials used throughout the cabin.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 250 BlueTEC utilizes a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension features a multi-link setup with coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link independent suspension. Air suspension was available as an optional extra, providing an even more comfortable ride and the ability to adjust the ride height. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control are standard features. The steering is electrically assisted, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 250 BlueTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of the more powerful CLS variants. Compared to the CLS 350, the 250 BlueTEC offered significantly better fuel economy but less acceleration. The diesel engine also provided a different driving character, with more low-end torque but less top-end power. In terms of reliability, the OM 651 engine family is generally considered to be robust and durable, although regular maintenance is essential.
Legacy
The CLS 250 BlueTEC has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The OM 651 diesel engine is known for its longevity, and the 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be relatively trouble-free. However, as with any diesel vehicle, it’s important to ensure that the diesel particulate filter (DPF) has been properly maintained. Today, the CLS 250 BlueTEC represents a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and efficient four-door coupe. Its combination of style, comfort, and fuel economy continues to make it an attractive option in the used car market.
