The Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 V8 4MATIC, part of the C218 facelift generation produced from July 2014 to April 2015, represented a high-performance offering within the CLS “four-door coupe” lineup. Positioned as a premium variant, it bridged the gap between the more accessible CLS 400 and the even more exclusive CLS 63 AMG. This model aimed to deliver a blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability, appealing to buyers seeking a sophisticated grand tourer. The C218 facelift brought styling updates, improved efficiency, and enhanced technology compared to the pre-facelift models, solidifying the CLS’s position as a desirable vehicle in the luxury segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218 facelift, 2014) |
| Type | CLS 500 V8 (408 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | April, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 13.4 l/100 km (17.6 US mpg, 21.1 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 218.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 321.7 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 | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2425 kg (5346.21 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 | 4937 mm (194.37 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2075 mm (81.69 in.) |
| Height | 1418 mm (55.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 898 mm (35.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1165 mm (45.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.53 m (37.83 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 500 4MATIC is the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and is equipped with two turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders, providing a broad torque curve and responsive power delivery. The engine produces 408 horsepower at 5000-5750 rpm and a substantial 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1600 rpm all the way to 4750 rpm. This engine is known for its smooth operation and refined character. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, is specifically tuned to handle the V8’s power and provide smooth, quick shifts. This transmission offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 500 4MATIC delivers a compelling driving experience. The combination of the powerful V8 engine and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the CLS 400 with its V6 engine, the 500 offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more effortless and engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the CLS 63 AMG, the 500 strikes a balance between performance and comfort. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising, providing a relaxed and refined ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 500 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its premium positioning. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver and passenger seat with memory function. Standard safety features included a suite of airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring), and upgraded interior trim options. The interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 500 4MATIC features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Air suspension was standard, allowing for adjustable ride height and further enhancing comfort. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. The steering is a power-assisted rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 500 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. Compared to the CLS 400, the 500 offered a noticeable performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag for buyers prioritizing power. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance. Reliability was generally good, although the complexity of the engine and transmission could potentially lead to higher maintenance costs over the long term. The CLS 500 4MATIC competed with other luxury four-door coupes, such as the Audi A7 and the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.
Legacy
The M278 engine, found in the CLS 500, is generally considered a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. However, like any complex engine, it can be susceptible to issues such as oil leaks and turbocharger wear over time. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally reliable, but regular fluid changes are crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. In the used car market, the CLS 500 4MATIC remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable grand tourer. Its combination of performance, comfort, and all-weather capability continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Values tend to be lower than the CLS 63 AMG, making it a more accessible entry point into the CLS model range.
