The Mercedes-Benz CLS is offered in two trims, a CLS 450 and a high-performance AMG CLS 53. The CLS' engine is a 3.0L inline-six cylinder combined with an internally integrated electric motor aids in acceleration by providing a temporary boost of 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The system manages an impressive combined output of 383 horsepower and 553 lb-feet of torque under full load. Mercedes claims 0-60 mph times clock in at around 5.0 seconds for the CLS 450 models. The AMG CLS 53's tuning brings enhanced engine output to 429 horsepower and 384-pound feet of torque. All CLS models use an advanced 9-speed automatic transmission sending power where it's needed to all four wheels on demand.

The CLS comes very well equipped even in the base-level 450 trims. Standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels, LED exterior lighting, keyless ignition, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt/slide sunroof, power-adjustable and heated front seats, 64-color ambient LED cabin lighting, leather seat upholstery, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto smartphone integration, navigation, Bluetooth, two USB ports, an electronic trunk closer, blind-spot monitoring and Active Brake Assist which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The CLS 53 adds more than just that stellar 6-cylinder engine; it comes with driver-adjustable adaptive suspension, 19" AMG-specific wheels, COMAND navigation with 13 Burmester speakers and 12-way power-adjustable front seats.

As is typical for a Mercedes-Benz, the option list is long, offering 3-zone automatic climate control, a power rear sunshade, soft-closing doors, head-up display, massaging front seats, cabin air-purification/fragrance system, wireless charging, heated steering wheel, heated front armrests and console, intelligent headlights with adaptive high beams.

A Driver Assistance package brings adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assistance, extra side protection and various other aids. Active parking assistance, 360-degree camera, and rear cross-traffic alert also are available as optional equipment.