2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS220 Estate CLS-Class AMG Line - Exterior and Interior Review HD

The second act in a niche-generating performance from Mercedes-Benz. It’s arguably not as dramatic as a result, but the Mercedes CLS is no less desirable – despite the fact it introduced the ridiculous ‘four-door coupe’ term into road-testing parlance. Swoopy and lithe, it’s a handsome four-door, and despite the curves it’s not overly compromised inside. Makes you wonder why you’d have a (now admittedly quite swoopy) E-Class, until you realise the CLS is a sizeable chunk of money more than its more conventional saloon sibling. You want the AMG, but you’ll buy the diesel, if not the 220, the 350, which is all the car you’ll need. Ownership should be hassle-free, and you’re unlikely to tire of driving it or looking at it. Shame then that the interior isn’t a bit more distinct from its relatives. Costs should be reasonable and residual values are likely to be strong, though if you do buy the AMG then you’ll get through tyres quickly as well as fuel. In contrast, the economical 220d is pretty tax friendly, so get your fleet manager to pay for it. Seduction comes from AMG’s flagship model, which although badged 63 is actually AMG’s latest 5.5-litre V8 with a pair of turbos stoking the gloriously noisy fire. It’s a Panamera Turbo rival with poise and power to take the fight to its Stuttgart competitor. It’s not entirely necessary though, as the rest of the range features the same fine driving dynamics – albeit without the ludicrous pace. Still, 6.5 seconds to 62mph in the CLS 350d is damn good going for a 52mpg V6 diesel, and even the four-cylinder CLS 220d turbodiesel manages the benchmark sprint in 8.5 seconds. It’s the one everyone will buy, and with good reason as it combines passable performance with fuel-station avoiding economy – there’s a free badge-delete option if you’re particularly proud. All ride with a supple composure, as Merc’s chassis engineers seem to have recently found their ride and handling mojo. It all adds up to a crushingly competent all-rounder with a broad range of abilities.