The Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 CDI, produced between October 2010 and September 2014, represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and diesel efficiency within the C218 CLS coupe generation. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the CLS lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a sophisticated four-door coupe experience without the outright performance of the CLS 550 or the more focused sportiness of the CLS 63 AMG. This variant combined a potent turbocharged diesel engine with Mercedes’ smooth-shifting 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, creating a grand tourer capable of both comfortable long-distance cruising and surprisingly brisk acceleration. The C218 CLS, overall, aimed to carve out a niche between traditional sedans and two-door coupes, appealing to a customer base prioritizing style and a unique driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 350 CDI V6 (265 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | October, 2010 |
| End of production | September, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5-5.1 l/100 km (47 – 46.1 US mpg, 56.5 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6-6.1 l/100 km (39.2 – 38.6 US mpg, 47.1 – 46.3 UK mpg, 16.7 – 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 159-160 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 152.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 356.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.854 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 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 | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4940 mm (194.49 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2075 mm (81.69 in.) |
| Height | 1416 mm (55.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1594 mm (62.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 901 mm (35.47 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1165 mm (45.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.27 m (36.98 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 350 CDI is the OM 642.854 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine, a mainstay of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings, utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance and efficiency. The engine produces 265 horsepower at 3800 rpm and a substantial 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2400 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of diesel engines, providing strong pulling power across a wide range of engine speeds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, is renowned for its smooth and responsive shifts. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch that engages at higher speeds to improve fuel economy and reduce slippage. The transmission is electronically controlled and adapts its shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 350 CDI Automatic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the engine’s ample torque provides effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.9 seconds, making it a surprisingly quick vehicle. The 7G-TRONIC transmission contributes to this performance, offering seamless gear changes. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other CLS models, the automatic prioritizes comfort and ease of use. The gear ratios are tuned for relaxed cruising, with higher gears providing excellent fuel economy on the highway. Compared to the CLS 550 with its V8 engine, the 350 CDI offers a more fuel-efficient and torque-focused driving experience, sacrificing some outright horsepower.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 350 CDI typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a power-adjustable driver and passenger seat. Standard safety features included ABS, traction control, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather, a navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Interior trim options varied, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin with wood or aluminum accents.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 350 CDI 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 an independent multi-link design as well. Air suspension was available as an option, providing an even more comfortable ride and the ability to adjust the ride height. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS and electronic brake-force distribution are standard features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 350 CDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and fuel-efficient diesel engine. The 7G-TRONIC transmission was also lauded for its smoothness and responsiveness. Compared to the gasoline-powered CLS 350, the CDI offered significantly better fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine was slightly noisier than the gasoline counterpart. Against competitors like the Audi A7 and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, the CLS 350 CDI stood out for its unique coupe-like styling and luxurious interior.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the OM 642.854 found in the CLS 350 CDI, is known for its durability and reliability. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is also generally reliable, although some units may require fluid changes and occasional servicing. In the used car market, the CLS 350 CDI represents a good value proposition, offering a luxurious and well-equipped coupe at a relatively affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with a diesel engine, such as diesel particulate filter (DPF) maintenance and potential injector issues.
