The Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 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 the OM642.854 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine producing 265 horsepower and paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, aimed to deliver a blend of performance, efficiency, and sophisticated luxury. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the X218 CLS Shooting Brake lineup, it sat between the lower-powered CLS 250 CDI and the higher-performance CLS 550 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS Shooting Brake (X218) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 350 CDI V6 (265 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) | 7.5-7.3 l/100 km (31.4 – 32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-5.3 l/100 km (43.6 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1-6.0 l/100 km (38.6 – 39.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 162-159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm |
| 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 |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2435 kg (5368.26 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The X218 CLS Shooting Brake, launched in 2012, expanded the CLS range by adding a practical wagon body style to the traditionally coupe-like silhouette. The CLS 350 CDI, equipped with the 3.0-liter V6 diesel, was a key model in the lineup, particularly in European markets where diesel engines were highly favored. It offered a compelling alternative to more conventional luxury wagons, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and refined vehicle with ample cargo space. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was a crucial component, designed to enhance both fuel efficiency and driving comfort.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 350 CDI Shooting Brake is the OM642.854 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine. This engine is a member of the OM642 family, known for its robust construction and refined operation. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to boost power and torque while maintaining efficiency. The V6 configuration provides inherent smoothness, and the 15.5:1 compression ratio contributes to its thermal efficiency. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, offering smooth and quick shifts. It features a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both acceleration and fuel economy. The transmission also includes a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 350 CDI Shooting Brake, with its 265 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque, provided brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 6.3 seconds, making it a genuinely quick vehicle for its size and class. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission played a significant role in delivering smooth power delivery. The wide gear ratios allowed the engine to operate efficiently at highway speeds, while providing ample torque for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful CLS 550 models, the 350 CDI offered a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. While lacking the outright performance of its gasoline-powered sibling, it excelled in providing a comfortable and refined grand touring experience. Compared to the CLS 250 CDI, the 350 CDI offered a noticeable increase in power and torque, resulting in more confident acceleration and improved overall performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 350 CDI Shooting Brake came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its luxury positioning. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a host of safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, advanced navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and a variety of interior trim options. Interior upholstery choices often included various leather colors and stitching patterns. The dashboard layout was typically characterized by a blend of wood trim, aluminum accents, and a central infotainment screen. The CLS Shooting Brake also offered a range of driver assistance systems, such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring, as optional extras.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 350 CDI Shooting Brake featured a sophisticated chassis designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good body control. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were standard features, enhancing safety and stability. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 350 CDI Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, spacious interior, and refined driving experience. The diesel engine was lauded for its fuel efficiency and ample torque. However, some critics noted that the ride could be firm on certain road surfaces. Compared to other luxury wagons, such as the Audi A6 Avant and BMW 5 Series Touring, the CLS Shooting Brake offered a more distinctive and sporty design. Its fuel economy was competitive with other diesel-powered vehicles in its class, and its reliability was generally considered to be good.
Legacy
The OM642 engine family, including the OM642.854 found in the CLS 350 CDI, has a reputation for durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally considered to be a robust unit. In the used car market, the CLS 350 CDI Shooting Brake remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a stylish and practical luxury wagon. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with a complex vehicle like the CLS, including potential issues with the diesel particulate filter and the air suspension system (if equipped). The X218 CLS Shooting Brake, and particularly the 350 CDI variant, represents a unique and compelling offering in the luxury automotive landscape, blending style, practicality, and performance in a distinctive package.
