The Mercedes-Benz CLS 350d Shooting Brake (X218, facelift 2014) represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and practicality within the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Produced from 2015 to 2018, this variant combined the elegant styling of the CLS four-door coupe with the added versatility of a station wagon (estate) body style. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the X218 series, the 350d aimed to provide a balance between the more powerful CLS 500 models and the more economical CLS 220d variants. It was primarily marketed towards European buyers seeking a sophisticated and capable grand tourer with ample cargo space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS Shooting Brake (X218, facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 350d V6 (258 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.0-5.1 l/100 km (47 – 46.1 US mpg, 56.5 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.6-5.7 l/100 km (42 – 41.3 US mpg, 50.4 – 49.6 UK mpg, 17.9 – 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 145-149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 333.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.852 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2460 kg (5423.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 590 l (20.84 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4953 mm (195 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2075 mm (81.69 in.) |
| Height | 1419 mm (55.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1629 mm (64.13 in.) |
| Front overhang | 898 mm (35.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1181 mm (46.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.18 m (36.68 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLS 350d Shooting Brake utilized Mercedes-Benz’s OM 642.852 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine, a mainstay in many Mercedes-Benz models of the era, is characterized by its robust construction and refined operation. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system capable of delivering extremely precise fuel metering. The engine employs a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque. The valvetrain is a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved efficiency and performance. The engine produced 258 horsepower at 3400 rpm and a substantial 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2400 rpm. This torque output was a key characteristic, providing strong acceleration and effortless cruising. Paired with the engine was the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, a significant advancement over previous Mercedes-Benz automatics, offered smoother shifts, improved fuel economy, and a wider gear ratio spread. The 9G-TRONIC allowed the engine to operate within its optimal efficiency range more frequently, contributing to the CLS 350d’s respectable fuel economy figures.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 350d Shooting Brake, with its 9G-TRONIC transmission, delivered a refined and comfortable driving experience. The abundant torque from the V6 diesel engine provided strong acceleration in everyday driving situations, making overtaking maneuvers easy and confident. While not a sports car, the CLS 350d offered a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 6.3 seconds. The nine-speed transmission ensured that the engine was rarely strained, and shifts were almost imperceptible. Compared to the more powerful CLS 500 models, the 350d prioritized fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising over outright performance. Compared to the CLS 220d, the 350d offered a significant power and torque advantage, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration and a more effortless feel, especially when fully loaded or traveling uphill. The gear ratios in the 9G-TRONIC were tuned for both efficiency and responsiveness, providing a good balance between the two.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 350d Shooting Brake came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a high-quality audio system, and a suite of safety technologies such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, premium sound systems (Burmester), advanced driver-assistance systems (Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist), and various interior trim options. The interior design was typically Mercedes-Benz, with a focus on elegance and craftsmanship. The dashboard layout was clean and intuitive, with a central infotainment screen controlling various vehicle functions. Trim levels were relatively streamlined, with most customization options available as individual add-ons rather than distinct packages.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 350d Shooting Brake featured an independent suspension system at all four corners. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design, while the rear employed a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability program (ESP) were standard features, enhancing safety and control. The chassis was designed to balance comfort and handling, providing a stable and predictable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 350d Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. The diesel engine was noted for its strong performance and fuel efficiency. However, some critics pointed out that the CLS Shooting Brake was a relatively expensive vehicle, and its practicality was somewhat compromised by its sloping roofline. Compared to other station wagons in its class, the CLS 350d stood out for its unique styling and premium brand image. In terms of fuel economy, the 350d offered a significant advantage over the gasoline-powered CLS 500, while providing comparable performance to the CLS 220d but with more power. Reliability reports generally indicated that the OM 642 engine was a durable and dependable unit, although maintenance costs could be higher than those of some competitors.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 350d Shooting Brake (X218) has established itself as a desirable used car. The OM 642 engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is known for its longevity. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be a reliable unit. Today, these vehicles are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their unique blend of style, luxury, and practicality. The CLS Shooting Brake, in general, helped to popularize the concept of a four-door coupe with estate car functionality, influencing the design of other vehicles in the premium segment. While newer models have since replaced the X218, the CLS 350d Shooting Brake remains a compelling option for those seeking a sophisticated and capable grand tourer.
