2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550

High fashion and high performance.Our CLS test car was "only" a CLS550, but I've also driven the CLS63 AMG version, and they're both impressive. What I remember most distinctly about the CLS63 was that I drove it on some very challenging roads above Napa Valley, in the rain, tailing a Mercedes-Benz USA executive who was driving an SLS AMG Gullwing quite briskly. As if that wasn't enough to keep me busy, I was also deeply engrossed in conversation with my co-driver, but we just sailed over those wet, twisting roads in utter serenity. The CLS chassis was totally composed, and the steering was among the most accurate and communicative setups I've ever experienced in a Mercedes-Benz. Those dynamics are also evident in the lesser CLS550, which feels much smaller than it is, almost like a sport coupe. I don't recall the E-class having steering nearly this good. The steering wheel itself is very handsome, with a big three-pointed star in the middle, little bump-outs at 10 and 2 o'clock that allow you to rest your hands at 9 and 3 comfortably, and a racing-inspired flat bottom. It's all good. Also good is the shallow dash, which adds to the feeling of compactness and sportiness. One low note, though, is that where the front doors meet the A-pillars, the triangle-shaped Harman Kardon speakers obstruct your forward vision.


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Automobile Magazine
07-29-2011 11:07 AM