The Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 Shooting Brake (X218), produced from 2012 to 2014, represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and practicality within the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Positioned as a premium offering, it combined the elegant coupe-like styling of the CLS with the enhanced cargo capacity of a station wagon (estate). This variant, equipped with the M276 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, aimed to deliver a refined driving experience with respectable performance and efficiency. It occupied a middle ground within the X218 range, offering a step up from the base models while remaining more accessible than the high-performance CLS 550 or AMG variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS Shooting Brake (X218) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 350 V6 (306 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 (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9.7-9.8 l/100 km (24.2 – 24 US mpg, 29.1 – 28.8 UK mpg, 10.3 – 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.3-7.4 l/100 km (32.2 – 31.8 US mpg, 38.7 – 38.2 UK mpg, 13.7 – 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 169-172 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 174.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 210.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 3500-5250 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 3500-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.952 |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2355 kg (5191.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 590 l (20.84 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4956 mm (195.12 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 | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 901 mm (35.47 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1181 mm (46.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| 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 | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLS 350 Shooting Brake lies the M276 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s mid-range offerings during this period, features a 60-degree V-angle and utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves both power and fuel efficiency. The engine’s aluminum block and cylinder heads contribute to weight reduction. The valvetrain employs dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission is a sophisticated unit known for its smooth shifts and efficiency. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch that engages in most driving situations, minimizing slippage and improving fuel economy. The transmission offers selectable driving modes, allowing the driver to tailor the shift points to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 350 Shooting Brake with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 306 horsepower and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque provide adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway cruising. The 0-60 mph time of around 6.4 seconds is respectable. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and seamless gear changes. Compared to the manual transmission options available in other CLS models, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS prioritizes comfort and ease of use over outright performance. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to balanced handling, although it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system available on other CLS variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 350 Shooting Brake came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its premium positioning. These typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather packages, a rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. The interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Dashboard configuration was generally consistent across trims, with variations primarily stemming from optional packages.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 350 Shooting Brake utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. A transverse stabilizer bar is fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system employs a power steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 350 Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. The 3.5-liter V6 engine and 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission were considered a good match for the vehicle, providing a balance of performance and efficiency. Compared to the CLS 550, the 350 offered a more affordable entry point into the CLS lineup, while still delivering a premium experience. In terms of fuel economy, the CLS 350 Shooting Brake offered competitive figures for its class, achieving around 32 mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with electronic components.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 Shooting Brake (X218) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market today, particularly for those seeking a stylish and practical luxury wagon. The M276 V6 engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, provided it is properly maintained. While not as common as the CLS sedan, the Shooting Brake variant offers a unique combination of elegance and versatility. Its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality ensures its continued appeal to enthusiasts and discerning buyers alike.
