The Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 V8 (408 Hp) 4MATIC, produced from April 2015 to December 2017, represents a high-performance variant within the C218 facelift generation of the CLS coupe. Positioned as a near-top-of-the-line offering, it blended the elegant styling of the CLS with substantial power and all-wheel-drive capability. This model aimed to deliver a luxurious grand touring experience, appealing to buyers seeking both performance and prestige. It built upon the foundation of the C218 platform, which debuted in 2010, and benefited from the mid-cycle refresh that brought updated styling, technology, and engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218 facelift, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | CLS 500 V8 (408 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | April, 2015 |
| End of production | December, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 12.5-12.7 l/100 km (18.8 – 18.5 US mpg, 22.6 – 22.2 UK mpg, 8 – 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.1-7.5 l/100 km (33.1 – 31.4 US mpg, 39.8 – 37.7 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.1-9.3 l/100 km (25.8 – 25.3 US mpg, 31 – 30.4 UK mpg, 11 – 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 213-219 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 (turning diameter) | 11.53 m (37.83 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| 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 4MATIC is the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and sophisticated technology. It features direct fuel injection, a bi-turbocharger setup (one turbocharger per cylinder bank), and an intercooler to enhance performance. The engine produces 408 horsepower at 5000-5750 rpm and a substantial 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 4750 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong acceleration across a wide range of engine speeds. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with the engine is the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth shifts and improved fuel efficiency. It offers a wide range of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate in its optimal power band more frequently. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 500 4MATIC delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The combination of the V8 engine and the nine-speed automatic transmission results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds. The 9G-TRONIC transmission provides seamless gear changes, contributing to a smooth and comfortable ride. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the CLS 500 offers ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced grip and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. Compared to the CLS 400 (with its smaller V6 engine), the 500 offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration. Compared to diesel variants like the CLS 350 CDI, the 500 prioritizes performance over fuel economy, offering a more engaging driving experience but at the cost of higher fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 500 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These typically included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a panoramic sunroof. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras included features such as a head-up display, massaging seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Interior trim options allowed for customization, with choices in wood veneers, aluminum accents, and upholstery colors. The overall 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 axles, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Air suspension was standard, allowing for adjustable ride height and damping. This system further enhances ride comfort and allows the driver to tailor the suspension to their preferences. The braking system consists of 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 steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, 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. However, some reviewers noted that its fuel economy was relatively high compared to some competitors. Compared to rivals like the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe and the Audi A7, the CLS 500 offered a unique blend of style, performance, and luxury. The CLS’s distinctive coupe-like roofline and elegant interior design set it apart from its competitors. In terms of reliability, the M278 engine is generally considered robust, but like any complex engine, it can be subject to maintenance requirements as it ages.
Legacy
The CLS 500 4MATIC (C218) represents a compelling combination of performance and luxury from Mercedes-Benz. While newer CLS generations have since been introduced, the C218 facelifted model remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. The M278 V8 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity and reliability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for maintenance costs associated with a high-performance luxury vehicle. The CLS 500 4MATIC continues to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish, powerful, and comfortable grand touring coupe.
