Mercedes CLS (2014)

The 2014 Mercedes CLS 350 is a luxury four-door coupe combining performance, comfort, and style in a distinctive package. Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine producing 306 bhp and 370 Nm of torque, it pairs with a 7-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive to deliver smooth and engaging driving dynamics. Its elegant design features a long, sleek roofline and multi-beam LED headlamps, making it a standout on Indian roads. Inside, the cabin features premium materials, advanced infotainment with a COMAND system, key safety tech like seven airbags and brake assist, and air suspension that provides a comfortable ride even on uneven surfaces. Boot space stands at a decent 520 litres, suited for grand touring. Although discontinued now, the CLS remains a favorite among luxury car buyers in India who want exclusivity, refinement, and sporty styling in one package.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS is a four-door coupe that redefines luxury and style in its segment. It features a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine producing 306 bhp and 370 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive. The car offers a spacious and plush interior with premium finishes, a three-dimensional instrument cluster, and advanced infotainment. Ride comfort is exceptional thanks to air suspension, and the car handles well for its size. Safety features are comprehensive, and boot space is generous at 520 litres. The CLS is a statement of individuality, combining performance, comfort, and exclusivity in a way that few cars can match in the Indian market.

The 2014 Mercedes CLS blends striking coupe-like design with the luxury and refinement expected from a top-tier German sedan. It stands out with its sleek profile, multi-beam LED headlights, and a well-crafted cabin featuring premium materials and advanced tech like a Burmester sound system and ambient lighting. The 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with 306 bhp delivers smooth, effortless power paired with a 7-speed automatic gearbox, offering confident performance without overwhelming the driver. The air suspension adds to the ride comfort, making it suitable for Indian roads despite some road quality challenges. While the CLS commands a premium and has relatively high maintenance costs, it remains a distinctive choice for enthusiasts wanting exclusivity and driving pleasure beyond the typical executive saloon. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and solid safety features add to the appeal for those who prioritize engineering and style in a luxury package. Overall, it’s an impressive vehicle but not for those seeking economical ownership or maximum rear-seat space since the four-door coupe styling limits rear headroom.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS stands out as a true statement car in India, blending the elegance of a coupe with the practicality of a four-door sedan. Its design is head-turning, and the cabin feels premium with high-quality materials and a spacious layout. The 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine delivers strong performance, making highway cruising effortless, while the air suspension ensures a plush ride even on rough Indian roads. Handling is confident, and the car feels planted at high speeds. The infotainment system is advanced for its time, but rear seat space is limited for tall passengers. Maintenance costs are on the higher side, and spare parts can be expensive, but for those who value exclusivity and style, the CLS remains a compelling choice. It’s not the most practical or economical luxury sedan, but it offers a unique blend of presence, comfort, and driving pleasure that few rivals can match.

Mercedes-Benz has announced the end of the CLS lineup, with the last CLS rolling out of the factory on August 31, 2023. This decision is part of their strategic product portfolio planning and the shift towards electric models. The CLS, known for its sleek design, will no longer be available in the market. I think this is a significant loss for car enthusiasts who appreciated its unique styling.

For maintenance and upgrades, owners of the 2014 CLS550 have been known to add significant modifications. These include methanol injection systems, custom downpipes, and upgraded brake components like Brembo ceramic brake pads and PowerStop drilled rear brake rotors. Such modifications enhance the cars performance and braking capabilities.

The 2014 CLS-Class has undergone various services and repairs, including new transmission mounts, water pumps, turbo coolant lines, and thermostats. Regular maintenance such as engine oil changes, cabin air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements are also essential to keep the car in good condition.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is praised for its attractive design and luxurious interior. It features a range of standard safety features, including four-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional safety features include rear side airbags, infrared night-view sensors, and a rearview camera. I believe the safety features make it a compelling choice in its class.

The interior of the 2014 CLS-Class is luxurious, featuring leather seats, a sunroof, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. The car also comes with various comfort and convenience features, making it a comfortable ride for both drivers and passengers. I think the interior is one of the cars strongest points.

Back in 2014, the Mercedes CLS in India was priced sharply at around ₹95.15 lakh ex-showroom Delhi, with the on-road price likely crossing ₹1 crore after taxes, insurance, and registration due to high luxury car levies in India. The CLS was positioned at the high end of the luxury coupe-segment, targeting a niche affluent clientele. This pricing reflects its exclusive positioning as a semi-coupe style grand tourer with premium features and high-performance credentials. Owning this 2014 model today would typically involve seeking pre-owned units, where prices fluctuate based on condition and mileage but remain premium given the model’s exclusivity and luxury status. The steep cost of ownership extends beyond purchase price, with maintenance and fuel costs higher than mainstream vehicles, which is an important consideration for buyers evaluating long-term value and budget for running costs.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS was launched in India with an ex-showroom price of around ₹95 lakh in Delhi, and on-road prices would have been closer to ₹1.1 crore depending on the city and prevailing taxes. Today, as a used car, prices vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and location, but expect to pay between ₹35 lakh to ₹55 lakh for a well-maintained example. The high initial cost and steep depreciation mean it’s not a value-oriented purchase, but for those seeking a premium, exclusive experience, the CLS still commands respect. Insurance and registration costs are also substantial, and buyers should factor in higher maintenance expenses when budgeting for ownership.

The CLS 350 petrol in India delivers a mileage close to 9-9.5 kmpl in city and highway driving conditions, which is typical for a large luxury car with a potent V6 engine and rear-wheel-drive setup. Running costs can be relatively high due to fuel consumption and maintenance expenses. If mileage and fuel efficiency are top priorities for you, there may be more economical options. However, this model’s appeal lies more in luxury and driving experience than frugality.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 delivers around 7 to 9 kmpl in real-world Indian driving conditions, with city driving often closer to 7 kmpl and highway runs pushing towards 9 kmpl. This is typical for a large, heavy luxury sedan with a powerful V6 engine. Running costs are high due to fuel consumption and expensive service intervals, so buyers concerned about mileage and daily running expenses should consider this carefully before committing.