The Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 V8 (C218), produced from March 2011 to September 2014, represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology within the CLS “four-door coupe” segment. Positioned as a high-performance variant of the C218 generation CLS, it occupied the upper echelon of the lineup, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the CLS 350 and 400 models. The C218 CLS itself was a pivotal model for Mercedes-Benz, establishing a new niche and influencing design trends across the automotive industry. It built upon the success of the original CLS (W219) by further refining the sleek, coupe-like silhouette while enhancing interior comfort and technological features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 500 V8 (408 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | March, 2011 |
| End of production | September, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 224.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 330.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 5000-5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1600-4750 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.922 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1815 kg (4001.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2375 kg (5235.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4940 mm (194.49 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2075 mm (81.69 in.) |
| Height | 1416 mm (55.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1594 mm (62.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 901 mm (35.47 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1165 mm (45.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.27 m (36.98 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 500 V8 is the M278.922 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine is a significant departure from naturally aspirated designs, employing two exhaust-gas-fed turbochargers positioned within the engine’s ‘V’ to minimize turbo lag and maximize efficiency. Direct fuel injection is utilized, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers for precise control and improved fuel economy. The engine boasts a robust 10.5:1 compression ratio and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission features a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency at cruising speeds and allows for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 500 V8 delivers a distinctly refined and powerful driving experience. The twin-turbo V8 provides ample torque throughout the rev range, resulting in strong acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is well-tuned to the engine’s characteristics, providing seamless shifts and contributing to a relaxed cruising experience. Compared to the CLS 350 or 400, the 500 offers a noticeably more urgent response and a greater sense of overall performance. While not as overtly sporty as some dedicated performance coupes, the CLS 500 strikes a compelling balance between comfort and capability. The air suspension contributes to a smooth ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 500 V8 came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Interior appointments typically included premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and a high-quality audio system. Standard equipment also included features like dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional extras were plentiful, including a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring), and upgraded audio systems from Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen. The CLS 500 often featured unique exterior styling cues, such as V8 badging and larger alloy wheels, to differentiate it from lower-trim models.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 500 V8 utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles, enhanced by air suspension for improved ride comfort and handling. The air suspension allows for adjustable ride height and damping settings. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard safety features. The CLS 500’s chassis is tuned to provide a comfortable yet controlled driving experience, prioritizing stability and refinement over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 500 V8 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy, while respectable for a V8, was not exceptional. Compared to the CLS 400, the 500 offered a significant performance advantage but came at a higher price point. The CLS 500 also faced competition from other luxury four-door coupes, such as the Audi A7 and BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. In terms of reliability, the M278 engine has proven to be generally robust, although preventative maintenance, particularly regarding the turbochargers and fuel system, is crucial.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 V8 (C218) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and style. The M278 engine, while complex, has demonstrated reasonable long-term reliability when properly maintained. The C218 CLS, as a whole, is considered a significant design milestone for Mercedes-Benz, influencing the styling of subsequent models and solidifying the brand’s position in the luxury coupe segment. The combination of a powerful V8 engine and a sophisticated automatic transmission continues to make the CLS 500 a compelling choice for enthusiasts and discerning drivers.
