In-Depth Review: 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Performance
Intro
The automotive landscape continually evolves, making each new model release a topic of considerable interest. One standout in the luxury sedan segment is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450. This model excels not only in terms of aesthetics but also in its performance, technology, and overall driving experience. Understanding what sets the CLS 450 apart is crucial for anyone looking to invest in a premium vehicle.
The 2019 CLS 450 represents a blend of style and cutting-edge tech. It holds a unique position in the market, rivaling various competitors. A thorough examination of the CLS 450 includes its performance capabilities, design details, safety ratings, and consumer feedback. Furthermore, grasping the value-for-money aspect is essential for informed purchasing decisions as potential buyers weigh various options.
In this review, we delve deeply into each of these areas, providing insights and details that will aid discerning automotive enthusiasts in understanding the comprehensive profile of the CLS 450.
Car Reviews
Overview of the Vehicle
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 introduces a fresh and modern interpretation of the CLS lineage. It showcases a refined design synonymous with the Mercedes brand while integrating contemporary elements that draw attention on the road. Beneath the exterior lies a commitment to performance, evidenced by its engine technology and engineering precision.
This model is positioned strategically in the luxury market. It draws in consumers who desire sophistication along with advanced automotive features, setting it apart from its immediate competitors.
Performance Analysis
The CLS 450 runs on a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine paired with a 48-volt hybrid system. This configuration delivers both power and efficiency. The vehicle efficiently accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.6 seconds. Such performance aligns it well with the expectations of luxury car enthusiasts.
- Horsepower: 362 hp
- Torque: 369 lb-ft
The engine seamlessly integrates with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and responsiveness. Is sportier driving desired? Engage the “Sport” driving mode for an enhanced experience. It's important to observe how the car delivers power in real-time, ensuring both an exhilarating ride along with optimal control.
Design and Interior Features
The exterior design of the CLS 450 fuses elegance and aerodynamic efficiency. Clean lines and the distinct grille create a striking first impression. Inside, the sedan offers a luxurious and spacious cabin, which favors driver comfort and advanced usability.
- Materials: Premium leathers, wood accents.
- Technology: Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with a dual-screen layout.
This model epitomizes comfort, with adjustable seats and climate control working seamlessly to enhance the user experience.
Safety Ratings and Specifications
Safety stands paramount in luxury vehicles, and the CLS 450 does not disappoint. Various safety features enhance occupant protection and driver confidence. Notable aspects include:
- Active Brake Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Attention Assist
These technologies have earned the CLS 450 solid safety ratings. The vehicle's emphasis on cutting-edge safety sensors reflects Mercedes-Benz's commitment to maintaining high safety standards.
Value for Money
Pricing for the CLS 450 starts competitively when observing the luxury sedan segment. Potential buyers should consider how the unique features justify the investment in this premium offering.
Key considerations:
- Superior driving dynamics.
- Comprehensive tech integration.
- Brand reputation.
Weighing these factors is vital against rival models, further aiding decision-making for serious buyers.
In assessing the luxury sedan market, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 exemplifies innovation paired with elegance, serving as an attractive option for discerning customers.
Prologue to the Mercedes-Benz CLS
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 exemplifies a unique blend of style, performance, and technological sophistication within the luxury sedan segment. Understanding this model and its key features is crucial for automotive enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike. This segment aims to lay the groundwork for a holistic appreciation of what the CLS 450 brings to the table.
Insight into the Introduction to the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 is invaluable, as it not only reveals the car's market presence but also highlights the craftsmanship and engineering excellence associated with Mercedes-Benz. The emphasis on luxury and performance in the CLS 450 presents a credible option for discerning customers looking for an aspirational driving experience balanced with everyday usability.
Overview of the Mercedes-Benz CLS Class
The Mercedes-Benz CLS Class marks a significant evolution in the luxury car line-up. Introduced in 2004, this class represents a bold design philosophy. Named “four-door coupe,” it bridges sedan comforts with coupe aesthetics. The overall body design features distinctive lines and elegant curves, contributing to a sporty performance-oriented identity.
Over the years, the CLS Class has emphasized performance while retaining elegance. The 2019 model, in particular, is noted for bringing advanced technology to enhance driving dynamics and passenger comfort. Mechanically, it leverages powerful engines and refined suspensions to deliver a seamless driving experience. Interest in this fuse ofdesign and engineering makes it pivotal for any auto aficionado to understand.
Key Market Position
Positioning of the 2019 CLS 450 within the luxury automotive market cannot be understated. It competes with other luxury stalwarts such as the BMW 6 Series and the Audi A7. What sets the CLS 450 apart? Predominantly, it resides firmly in the upper-tier of the segment, being priced attractively yet justifiably above basic luxury sedans. Aside from pricing, the CLS stands out with its advanced tech, plush interiors, and an array of safety features.
This balance in pricing and value offered establishes the CLS 450 as an appealing choice for buyers who desire something beyond common luxury features without sacrificing essential comfort or driving pleasure. The ever-evolving nature of buyers’ demands and competitive looping of rivals means that Mercedes-Benz must continuously refine offerings, thereby ensuring that the CLS 450 maintains its strong market position as an epitome of luxury driving.
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 represents not just a vehicle, but an amalgamation of performance and luxury, setting benchmarks in its crowded market space.
Performance Analysis
The performance analysis of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 is crucial for assessing its place in the competitive luxury sedan market. Understanding the engine specifications, acceleration, and overall driving experience allows potential buyers to make informed decisions. The performance parameters of this vehicle directly affect its handling dynamics, responsiveness, and suitability for various driving conditions.
Engine Specifications
The 2019 CLS 450 is equipped with a remarkable engine that defines its performance. This model features a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine that generates 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The integration of a 48-volt mild hybrid system augments the vehicle’s output by supplying an additional 21 horsepower during periods of hard acceleration. This system not only enhances performance but also contributes to fuel efficiency by allowing the car to shut off the engine when idling. The 9-speed automatic transmission smoothly transfers power from the engine to the wheels, providing responsive shifts whether in urban settings or on the highway.
Acceleration and Handling
When examining acceleration, the CLS 450 boasts impressive numbers. It can reach 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.1 seconds. This rapid acceleration underscores the effectiveness of its turbocharged engine and mild hybrid system. The driving dynamics are further enhanced by the air suspension system, which offers excellent ride comfort and handling agility. Available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, the vehicle delivers exceptional traction, especially in improbable weather conditions. The steering is precise, which elevates the overall driving confidence.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of the 2019 CLS 450 melds performance and comfort with style. In city driving, the car's responsiveness makes maneuvering effortless. On highways, it offers a refined quality, with minimal road noise thanks to well-insulated cabin. Owners have noted the balance between spirited driving and a luxury feel, making it suitable for long-distance journeys. The seamless combination of power and sophistication contributes to a driving milieu that is both exhilarating and tranquil.
"The thrumming engine and calm ride create a compelling experience, prime for both adrenaline seekers and those preferring luxury."
Design and Interior
The design and interior of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 are critical factors that influence buyer decisions and overall ownership experiences. Mercedes-Benz pays meticulous attention to these elements, intertwining aesthetics with functionality. This section explores key features of the CLS 450's design, alongside its interior comfort and technology, and emphasizes the practical aspect of the vehicle's cargo space considerations.
Exterior Features
The exterior of the 2019 CLS 450 reflects a sophisticated yet sporty design that attracts attention. Mercedes has designed the CLS to embody luxury from every angle with fluid lines and a coupe-like silhouette. The notable features include:
- LED Headlights: The signature LED headlights not only provide great visibility at night but also enhance the vehicle's sleek look.
- Radiator Grille: The distinctive grille with the iconic three-pointed star showcases the brand's identity effectively.
- Wheels and Tires: Various wheel options allow customers to personalize their vehicle, ranging from elegant 18-inch to 20-inch alloys.
Overall, the CLS 450's exterior charisma sets it apart from competitors in a crowded market, embodying what luxury means in the automobile industry today.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping into the interiors, one finds a realm of luxury reflected in the materials and technology available. The ambiance is designed to be warm and welcoming while offering the latest in automotive technology.
- Quality Materials: Premium leather and high-quality woods are utilized to create a refined environment. Both driver and passenger seats are highly adjustable, ensuring that comfort is never compromised.
- Infotainment System: The User interface is handled by Mercedes' MBUX system, which supports voice control, navigation and smartphone integration. User-friendly touch control buttons add to ease of use. This enhances the driving experience by making multifunctional controls accessible.
- Sound System: The Burmester surround sound system creates an impeccable audio experience, which can transform everyday commuting into enjoying premium sound quality.
This blend of comfort and technology showcases how Mercedes-Benz understands its clientele needs, creating an inviting environment that meets both relaxation and entertainment while on the road.
Cargo Space Considerations
While the CLS is designed primarily as a luxury sedan, it is also sensible in addressing practical elements like cargo space. The CLS 450 offers a trunk space that is adequate for a luxury vehicle, measuring approximately 11.9 cubic feet.
Key aspects to consider include:
- Accessibility: The trunk opens wide to accommodate larger items, making it easy to pack luggage for longer journeys.
- Foldable Seats: The rear seats can be folded down, further extending the cargo capacity for bulkier items when needed. This feature adds to the versatility without drastically compromising the vehicle's sleek profile.
Safety Features and Ratings
The importance of safety features and ratings cannot be understated in any comprehensive review of a luxury sedan, including the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450. Safety technology enhances not just the driving experience, but significantly influences purchasing decisions. Car buyers today prioritize the safety of themselves and their passengers. Thus, understanding how well the CLS 450 fares in this regard is crucial. The effectiveness, reliability, and presence of standard and advanced safety features reflect a vehicle's commitment to care for its occupants.
Standard Safety Equipment
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 comes prepared with an array of standard safety equipment designed to protect occupants. Features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring are pivotal. These systems function collectively to minimize the risk of accidents.
In detail, the adaptive cruise control adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, while pre-collision assistance ensures readiness in potential crash scenarios.
- Automatic braking engages whenever object detection sensors identify impending collisions.
- Lane-keeping assistance aids in maintaining lane position, correcting steering when necessary.
- Traction control systems work to prevent wheel slip on slippery surfaces.
The composition of these features illustrates not only a commitment to safety but also a level of technological sophistication evident in luxury vehicles.
Crash Test Results
Crash test ratings provide benchmarking of a vehicle's safety attributes. The 2019 CLS 450 received commendable ratings in various crash tests. Organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) put vehicles through rigorous testing processes.
For instance, the CLS 450 earned 5 stars from NHTSA across several categories. This reflects excellent stability in front, side, and rollover tests. Furthermore, the IIHS also acknowledged the vehicle with the Top Safety Pick+ award, confirming its superior performance in front crash prevention and headlight tests.
It's essential for prospective owners to familiarize themselves with these safety ratings, as they serve as significant indicators of vehicle performance during accidents.
With regards to overall integrity, the impressive standard safety equipment, coupled with above-average crash test scores, depicts the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 as a credible choice for those valuing safety in their luxury driving experience.
Technology and Infotainment
In an era where technology amplifies driving experiences, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 merges luxury with advanced functionality. The integration of technology and infotainment features not only enhances comfort but also creates a safer and more connected environment for both drivers and passengers. As competition within the luxury sedan market stiffens, these elements become central selling points. This section explores the CLS 450's system in detail, providing insight into how technology underpins its appeal.
Infotainment System Overview
The infotainment system in the 2019 CLS 450 utilizes the MBUX platform, which stands for Mercedes-Benz User Experience. This platform boasts features like voice activation, touch controls, and smartphone integration. The central touch screen, measuring 12.3 inches, displays navigation, media options, and available apps seamlessly. Voice commands enhance usability without the need to take hands off the wheel. This level of integration fosters both intimacy and efficiency, allowing drivers to manage key functions effortlessly.
Key Features:
- Voice Control: Allows control over various functions such as making calls or setting navigation without distractions.
- Touchscreen Interface: Enhances accessibility to multimedia and vehicle settings.
- Navigation System: Provides real-time updates, along with a clear layout of routes.
Important Consideration: This premium system may require some acclimatization. New users could experience a learning curve due to the multitude of functions available.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity remains crucial in the modern sedan landscape, and the CLS 450 excels in this aspect. It offers features essential for drivers relying on constant connectivity and multifunctionality.
Highlights:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Ensures compatibility with major smartphone operating systems, facilitating direct access to apps, music, and messages.
- Bluetooth Functionality: Users can engage in hands-free calls, enhancing safety during travel.
- Multiple USB Ports: Found throughout the cabin, they accommodate charging and connectivity for various devices.
This thoughtful inclusion of connectivity features strengthens the car's relevance in a tech-driven world, where staying connected is paramount. Overall, the technology and infotainment segments of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 illustrate a holistic approach to enhancing the luxury driving experience, blending performance with connecting capabilities for a contemporary audience.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
Understanding fuel efficiency and maintenance is vital for assessing the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450. These elements significantly affect both overall ownership costs and the vehicle's long-term reliability. Buyers often prioritize efficiency in terms of fuel consumption, especially with gas prices fluctuating. Additionally, reliable maintenance information guides potential owners in budgeting their expenses.
Fuel Economy Ratings
The fuel economy ratings for the CLS 450 demonstrate its capacity to balance power and efficiency. The vehicle is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, which is noteworthy for its performance along with decent fuel efficiency. On average, it delivers around 22 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Often, this configuration highlights the blend of luxury and practicality.
These ratings are competitive within the luxury sedan market, positioning the CLS 450 as a compelling choice for buyer concerned about operational costs.
"When considering a luxury sedan, it's crucial to assess both performance and fuel consumption. The CLS 450 addresses both admirably."
Maintaining fuel economy involves various factors, ranging from driving habits to routine vehicle care. Adopting practices such as regular tire pressure checks and avoiding rapid accelerations can lead to better fuel consumption.
Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance requirements underscore the significance of car care for the 2019 CLS 450. As with any luxury vehicle, owners must be proactive in servicing to ensure longevity and performance. The CLS 450 recommends routine service intervals every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Routine checks may include oil changes, replacing filters, and brake inspections.
Moreover, understanding the potential costs associated with maintenance is crucial. Replacement parts in luxury vehicles, such as those from Mercedes-Benz, are often priced at a premium.
Additional considerations include:
- Warranty Coverage: New owners should be attentive to their warranty coverage, detailing included services/upgrades.
- Condition Based Service Subscription: This feature informs owners of necessary service intervals based on which systems have been activated most frequently, enhancing the driving experience.
Maintaining proper upkeep not only prolongs the life of the CLS 450 but also preserves its luxury feel, ensuring that both performance and value are sustained.
Comparison with Competitors
The luxury sedan market is quite competitive, and understanding how the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 stands against its rivals is paramount for any prospective buyer. This section evaluates various aspects, such as performance, features, and pricing differences that matter to discerning automotive enthusiasts. Prices and characteristics vary greatly among competitors. This evaluation provides a nuanced view which helps convince potential buyers that they are making a knowledgeable choice.
Comparative Analysis with Other Luxury Sedans
When stacking the 2019 CLS 450 against other notable sedans in its class, such as the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Lexus GS, distinct characteristics emerge.
- Performance: The CLS 450 features a robust inline-six engine and 9-speed automatic transmission. Its power output significantly positions it against competitors, offering both speed and a comfortable ride. For instance, the BMW 540i provides strong performance similar to CLS; however, CLS enthuses with a buttery chasis that enhances overall drive experience.
- Comfort: The interior of the CLS 450 shines with its sophisticated design and luxurious materials. While the Audi A6 also competes in comfort, its touch controls can cause hassle, making the CLS the better option for those preferring tactile experience over screen-based.
- Technology: In terms of tech functionalities, the CLS 450 adopts Mercedes' MBUX system, surpassing the Lexus GS's older navigation system. The seamless integration of voice controls offers unique convenience.
In essence, when capable luxury sedans rise to comparison, like vehicles barely manage to align, achieving striking moods where Mercedes-Benz holds upper indication.
Pricing Differences
Considering the aspect of pricing, the 2019 CLS 450 sits mid-range in the luxury segment. Its price reflects the quality offered.
- Base Price: The starting MSRP for the CLS 450 is around $69,000, presenting fair value against its competitors. Comparatively, the Audi A6 starts at just below $60,000, while the BMW 540i exceeds that of CLS, typically resting above $73,000 but does swerve as extra features load.
- Options and Upgrades: It’s relevant to look at how options and upgrades alter the final pricing. For example, the GSM enhances come at an additional cost in over Laesa modes that rock up notably. Styling kits for the Mercedes-Benz offer increased sonic interiors but the out-put can also swell substantially depending on lodged entries included.
Ultimately, understanding these pricing nuances is crucial for making a well-rounded purchasing decision. Shoppers may weigh direct advantages each bucket offers over clangging—chirpping escalations makes out-of-base which result attitudes better. The CLS 450 fantastically balances performance and luxury at a fare price ensuing buyer compell.
In a market pulsing with choices, slowly channeling needs consistently lets exclusive personal taste count toward an educated seller.
Owner Experiences and Reviews
Importance of Owner Experiences and Reviews
Owner experiences and reviews provide essential insights that can shape the perceptions of potential buyers regarding the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450. This section highlights not only what the vehicle offers but also how it performs in real-world scenarios. Evaluating user feedback is crucial since it reveals practical advantages and drawbacks associated with long-term use. When consumers consider purchasing a luxury vehicle like the CLS 450, understanding the day-to-day ownership experience can significantly influence their final decision.
Such insights cover various elements, from reliability and comfort to performance and technology integration. Engaging with the owner community can also promote a sense of trust for prospective buyers. Notably, online forums and social media groups allow firsthand testimonies to be shared, which can save potential owners from making an uninformed choice.
Positive Feedback
Owner feedback for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 is largely affirmative, emphasizing its luxurious ride and advanced technology. Many owners appreciate the harmonious blend of sporty performance and opulent comfort. Several reviews cite the responsive turbocharged engine that delivers a smooth acceleration, making it an exhilarating vehicle to drive. The plush seating and high-quality materials in the interior earn praise for providing an inviting atmosphere.
Specifically, technology features receive compliments, particularly the MBUX infotainment system which many find intuitive and easy to navigate. Owners have noted how the voice control capabilities work efficiently, enhancing overall convenience while driving. Furthermore, the vehicle's exterior design is another point of positive feedback. Many owners express satisfaction with the striking aesthetics, receiving numerous compliments from bystanders.
However, as with all vehicles, it’s important to balance this feedback with a critical lens. Not every owner feels the same way, but collectively, the praise paints the 2019 CLS 450 as a strong contender in the luxury sedan market.
Common Complaints
Despite positive accolades, owner reviews often bring forward specific common complaints regarding the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450. Some drivers have previously noted limited cargo space as a significant downside, particularly when compared to competitors in the luxury segment. This limitation can prove inconvenient for families or those requiring extra room for luggage or daily gear.
Additionally, a number of owners have highlighted customer service issues with certain dealerships, citing slow response times for repairs and warranty claims. Such aspects can tarnish the overall luxury ownership experience expected from a brand like Mercedes-Benz. Moreover, tech glitches have been reported, including bugs in the infotainment system, leading to frustration for some.
In summary, while the majority of owner experiences pit the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 favorably against others in its class, recognizing common complaints can assist prospective buyers in weighing the vehicle's overall appeal against individual needs.
End: The Mercedes-Benz CLS
The conclusion serves as a crucial synthesis of the comprehensive review conducted throughout this article. It brings together insights from various sections on performance, design, technology, and safety features of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450. By integrating these facets, it aims to provide a cohesive understanding, assisting prospective buyers in assessing the vehicle's value and relevance in the saturated luxury sedan market.
Summary of Features and Performance
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 impresses with its robust performance abilities, largely driven by a potent inline-six engine coupled with a hybrid system. This offers a seamless and responsive driving experience. Additionally, the vehicle also incorporates cutting-edge design aesthetics that balances elegance with modern technology. Key highlights include:
- Engine: A 3.0L inline-six with EQ Boost technology delivering 362 horsepower.
- Transmission: A smooth 9-speed automatic that zeroes in on driving precision.
- Handling: The vehicle is equipped with an advanced adaptive air suspension system which enhances both handling and ride quality.
The interior features luxurious materials and state-of-the-art technology, solidifying the CLS 450's reputation as a benchmark for luxurious sedans. Ultimately, the combination of performance features elevates driving exhilaration, while its design ensures comfort and functionality for passengers.
Recommendation for Prospective Buyers
For those considering the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450, several factors merit attention. The vehicle stands out for its modern styling, command over performance dynamics, and an extensive array of safety and tech features.
However, prospective buyers must also recognize the following:
- Price Point: The license to luxury comes at a premium compared to rivals like the Audi A7 and BMW 6 Series.
- Maintenance: While offering a wealth of features, the associated maintenance and servicing costs can add up.
