The Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 V8 (408 Hp) 4MATIC, produced between July 2011 and September 2014, represents a high-performance variant within the C218 CLS coupe generation. Positioned as a premium offering, it combined a powerful V8 engine with all-wheel drive and a sophisticated automatic transmission, aiming to deliver both exhilarating performance and luxurious comfort. The C218 CLS, introduced in 2010, pioneered the four-door coupe segment, blending the sleek profile of a coupe with the practicality of a sedan. This particular variant served as a flagship model, sitting above the CLS 350 and CLS 63 AMG in terms of power and price.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 500 V8 (408 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | July, 2011 |
| End of production | September, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 13.4-13.5 l/100 km (17.6 – 17.4 US mpg, 21.1 – 20.9 UK mpg, 7.5 – 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.4-7.5 l/100 km (31.8 – 31.4 US mpg, 38.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.5 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.6-9.7 l/100 km (24.5 – 24.2 US mpg, 29.4 – 29.1 UK mpg, 10.4 – 10.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 224-226 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 218.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 321.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 5000-5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1600-4750 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.922 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, 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 | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2425 kg (5346.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 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 permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 500 V8 is the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and is equipped with twin turbochargers, an intercooler, and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The M278 engine family was a significant advancement for Mercedes-Benz, offering a blend of power and efficiency. The engine’s output of 408 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque is delivered across a broad rev range, thanks to the turbocharging. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was specifically tuned to handle the engine’s power and provide smooth, responsive shifts. This transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 500 V8 4MATIC delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the base CLS 350 or even the diesel-powered CLS 350 CDI. The V8 provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.6 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is well-matched to the engine, offering quick and seamless gear changes. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather. While not as overtly sporty as the CLS 63 AMG, the CLS 500 offers a refined and powerful driving experience, prioritizing comfort and effortless performance. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising, providing ample power for overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 500 V8 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its premium positioning. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver and passenger seat with memory function. Standard safety features included a suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a driver assistance package (including adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist), and upgraded interior trim options. The interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 500 V8 4MATIC featured an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, enhanced with air suspension for a comfortable ride. The air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height and damping settings, further enhancing comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The stability control system was integrated with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system to optimize traction and handling. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, providing a stable and controlled ride even during spirited driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the CLS 500 V8 4MATIC for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some noted that the fuel economy was relatively low for a vehicle in its class. Compared to the CLS 350, the 500 offered significantly more power and performance, but at a higher price point. The CLS 63 AMG provided even more performance, but at a substantial premium and with a firmer ride. The CLS 500 V8 4MATIC appealed to buyers who wanted a luxurious and powerful coupe without the extreme performance focus of the AMG model.
Legacy
The M278 engine, while generally reliable, can require maintenance on its turbochargers and direct injection system as mileage increases. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is also known for its durability, but fluid changes are crucial for long-term reliability. Today, the C218 CLS 500 V8 4MATIC represents a compelling value on the used car market, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and style. Well-maintained examples continue to provide a rewarding driving experience, and the vehicle’s unique design ensures it remains a head-turner. Its status as a pioneer in the four-door coupe segment solidifies its place in automotive history.
