Overview

What's New
The CLS was an all-new model in 2006, but there are several changes for 2007, including a standard Harmon/Kardon audio system, Pre-Safe safety system that trickles down from the S-Class, and more powerful engines.

Overview
Mercedes-Benz claims the CLS, which it launched as a 2006 model, was the first "four-door coupe," meaning that despite its very sleek and low roofline, this large and elegant sporty car still offers the convenience of four doors. Many auto industry observers rank the CLS among the most beautiful vehicle designs on the road today. For the 2007 model year, the CLS550 gets a 382-hp engine, a significant upgrade from the previous 302-hp version of the 5.5-liter V-8. The high-performance CLS63 AMG now comes with a 507-hp, 6.3-liter V-8-a boost of nearly 40 hp over its predecessor. The AMG version also gets numerous component upgrades designed to help keep all that power under control.

All CLS models come with Mercedes' Pre-Safe safety system that Mercedes launched with the latest generation of its S-Class . Pre-Safe sensors take protective measures when a crash is impending by tightening seat belts, properly positioning a reclined front passenger's seat, and automatically closing the sunroof and side windows. Pre-Safe also reacts to emergency braking, fishtailing, or to a vehicle that's plowing ahead instead of turning by engaging vehicle stability controls to help the driver maintain control.

Wood and leather cover seemingly every interior surface of the CLS, which features four-zone climate controls so each passenger can control their environment. An array of mobile communications and navigation options are available. The instrument cluster features three chronometer-type gauges.

The Competition
The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class competes in the Large Premium Sporty segment, which consists of five models. Buyers in this segment look for exterior styling, performance, and quality, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Avoider Study^SM and the Escaped Shopper Study.^SM

The top sellers in the segment during calendar year 2006, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SMwere the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class (10,763 units sold), BMW 6 Series (9,322), and Jaguar XK-Series (4,567). The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class' 10,763 sales in 2006 represent a decrease of 27.4 percent compared to the previous year. Other models offered in the Large Premium Sporty segment include the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class and SLR.