The Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 CDI Shooting Brake (X218), produced from 2012 to 2014, represented a unique offering in the luxury automotive market. It combined the sleek, coupe-like styling of the CLS four-door coupe with the practicality of a station wagon (estate). This variant, powered by a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 204 horsepower, and paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground within the CLS lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and sophisticated design. It was primarily aimed at the European market, where demand for diesel-powered, practical luxury vehicles was strong.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS Shooting Brake (X218) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 250 CDI (204 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4-6.3 l/100 km (36.8 – 37.3 US mpg, 44.1 – 44.8 UK mpg, 15.6 – 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8-4.7 l/100 km (49 – 50 US mpg, 58.9 – 60.1 UK mpg, 20.8 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4-5.3 l/100 km (43.6 – 44.4 US mpg, 52.3 – 53.3 UK mpg, 18.5 – 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 143-139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 268.1 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 |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2390 kg (5269.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 590 l (20.84 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Length | 4956 mm (195.12 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Height | 1416 mm (55.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Rear track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.27 m (36.98 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 245/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 250 CDI Shooting Brake is the OM651.924 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a highly refined unit, featuring common-rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler. The common-rail system, operating at extremely high pressures, allows for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine utilizes four valves per cylinder and a sophisticated engine management system to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission is a key component, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission is known for its adaptability, adjusting shift points based on driving style and road conditions. The transmission also features a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 250 CDI, with its 204 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, provided a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine delivered ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 7.4 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to a relaxed driving experience, with well-spaced gear ratios. Compared to the more powerful CLS 350 or CLS 550 models, the 250 CDI prioritized fuel economy and lower running costs over outright performance. The automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the same level of engagement as a manual gearbox, and some drivers might have found it slightly hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 250 CDI Shooting Brake came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Typical features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a high-quality audio system, and a suite of safety features like ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. These included features like a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (often from Harman Kardon), advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring), and various interior trim options. The interior design mirrored the luxurious aesthetic of other CLS models, with a focus on high-quality materials and a modern, elegant layout.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 250 CDI utilized an independent suspension system at all four corners, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Anti-lock braking (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) were standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering a precise and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 250 CDI Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine, while capable, lacked the punch of the larger engines available in the CLS range. Compared to the CLS 350, the 250 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy but less performance. The 250 CDI also represented a more affordable entry point into the CLS lineup, making it an attractive option for buyers who prioritized value and efficiency. Reliability was generally good, typical of Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, including the 2.1-liter variant found in the CLS 250 CDI, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. These engines are known for their longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. On the used car market, the CLS 250 CDI Shooting Brake remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a stylish and practical luxury vehicle. While older examples may require some maintenance, the robust engine and well-built chassis contribute to a relatively trouble-free ownership experience. The combination of a diesel engine, automatic transmission, and wagon body style, while not common in the US market, was a popular choice in Europe, and the CLS 250 CDI Shooting Brake represents a compelling example of this configuration.
