Drop-dead sexy might not be the first words you associate with midsize sedans, but after experiencing the 2006 Benz Cls500, it’s hard to deny its captivating allure. This four-door coupe from Mercedes-Benz isn’t just about striking looks; it masterfully blends coupe aesthetics with sedan practicality, reminiscent of Mazda’s RX-8 in its innovative approach to body styles. While prioritizing style, some practical aspects are slightly compromised, but the CLS500 undeniably marks a bold step for Mercedes, a brand traditionally known for more conservative sedan designs.
Model Lineup: CLS500 and CLS55 AMG
Following Mercedes-Benz’s strategy of creating sportier variants from existing sedan platforms, the 2006 CLS-Class, based on the E500 sedan, emerged as the tenth model in their lineup. Compared to the E-Class, the CLS-Class extends nearly 3.5 inches in overall length while maintaining the same 112.4-inch wheelbase. It also boasts an extra 2.5 inches in width and a 2-inch reduction in height, contributing to its sleek profile. The 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is available in two primary trims, primarily distinguished by their powertrains. The core model is the V8-powered CLS500, which was the focus of our test drive. For those seeking ultimate performance, the CLS55 AMG variant offers a formidable 469-horsepower, 5.5-liter V8 engine, coupled with a sport-tuned lowered suspension, imposing 19-inch wheels, and distinctive AMG body styling.
Coupe or Sedan: Defining the 2006 CLS500
Mercedes-Benz markets the CLS-Class as a “coupe,” a classification that traditionally denotes two-door vehicles. However, the 2006 Benz CLS500 features four doors, leading us to categorize it as a sedan, albeit a remarkably stylish one. Visit the official Mercedes-Benz website, and you’ll find the CLS-Class indeed labeled as a “coupe.” This marketing approach aims to convey that “coupe” represents a design philosophy rather than a strict door count. The essence of the CLS500’s design lies in merging the dynamic styling of a sports coupe with the everyday usability of a sedan. By positioning the 2006 CLS500 as a four-door coupe, Mercedes-Benz strategically carves a unique space in the competitive luxury car market. This positioning, however, inevitably invites comparisons and competition from a broader spectrum of luxury vehicles. The 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class faces competition from two directions. Its striking coupe-like design pits it against charismatic luxury coupes. Buyers of two-seater sports cars like the Mercedes-Benz SL500, or coupes with less practical rear seats like the Jaguar XK8, might find the CLS500 a compelling alternative. Yet, despite its coupe aspirations, the CLS500 is fundamentally evaluated against other high-end sports sedans. In this segment, populated by rivals such as the BMW 545i and Lexus GS 430, the CLS-Class faces a significant challenge in attracting buyers from established and highly regarded performance sedans.
Design: A Head-Turning Aesthetic
The 2006 Benz CLS500 prioritizes its captivating styling above even its luxurious features and advanced technology. The design is visually appealing from almost any angle, conveying a sense of motion even when stationary. This dynamic aesthetic is largely attributed to its sweeping roofline, pronounced wedge shape, and sculpted side panels. The extended length, prominent grille, steeply angled windshield, and blacked-out window frames, creating a continuous glass effect, further enhance its powerful presence. Completing the look are 18-inch wheels and subtly flared fenders. Opening the driver’s door reveals an interior that feels as intimate and sporty as a coupe, thanks to the low roofline and a wide center console that extends through the cabin. As expected in a premium vehicle, the interior is finished with high-quality materials, including extensive leather upholstery and a choice of matte burl walnut or glossy laurel wood trim.
Comfort and Practicality: Balancing Style with Function
Front seat comfort in the 2006 Benz CLS500 is generous, however, rear passengers encounter limited legroom and headroom. Visibility is also compromised, and interior storage is minimal. Settling into the driver’s seat of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 reveals comparable head and legroom to the E500. Comfortable 10-way power-adjustable front bucket seats and a power tilt/telescoping steering column ensure finding an optimal driving position is effortless. Memory settings for both driver and front passenger seats, accommodating three positions each, enhance convenience. While front occupants enjoy ample space, the CLS500’s rear seating, designed for two, sacrifices considerable headroom (1.5 inches) and legroom (7.5 inches) compared to the E500 sedan. This reduction poses challenges for taller individuals, and even those of average height need to be mindful of the low doorframe when entering and exiting. The stylish low-profile windows and substantial C-pillars, while visually appealing externally, restrict outward visibility from inside the cabin. Adding to this, the smaller-than-average side mirrors were noted to be difficult to adjust for an ideal field of view. Despite the prevalence of mobile devices and personal electronics, interior storage options are limited to two small covered compartments in the center console – one for front and rear occupants – and shallow door map pockets. The trunk offers a more practical 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which is commendable. Our test vehicle featured an optional power trunk closer, simplifying trunk lid operation with a button press.
Engine and Performance: Under the Hood of the CLS500
The 2006 Benz CLS500 houses a refined 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 302 horsepower, delivering strong acceleration. Power is channeled to the rear wheels via a sophisticated seven-speed automatic transmission, characteristic of a true sports sedan. Beneath the hood of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500 resides a gem of an engine – the same 302-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8 also found in the E500 sedan. This engine provides robust acceleration, generating 339 lb.-ft. of torque across a broad rpm range from 2,700 to 4,250 rpm. Coupled with low emissions and a pleasing exhaust note, it offers ample power for most driving needs. Power is delivered to the rear wheels, in classic sports sedan configuration, through an excellent seven-speed automatic transmission. This advanced transmission maximizes the engine’s power band and includes a Sportronic manual shift feature, enabling drivers to manually shift gears using the console-mounted lever. Selectable Comfort and Sport modes allow customization of transmission shift patterns to driver preference. A drawback of this potent powertrain is its requirement for premium fuel, common among high-performance vehicles. Our tests yielded 15.5 miles per gallon in mixed driving conditions, slightly below the EPA estimates of 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. With a 21-gallon fuel tank, the CLS500 offers a range of approximately 325 miles between refueling.
Driving Dynamics: Road Test Impressions
The 2006 Benz CLS500 delivers impressive acceleration, achieving the manufacturer’s estimated 0-60 mph time of around six seconds. However, the powertrain exhibits a slight hesitation in throttle response, and the brake pedal can feel less progressive, impacting smooth stops. The potent V8 engine enables rapid acceleration, making the manufacturer’s claimed 0-60 mph time of six seconds easily believable. The Sportronic transmission’s ability to select the optimal gear, even in automatic mode, contributes to this performance. However, a notable flaw in the otherwise excellent powertrain emerges when accelerating. A slight hesitation in throttle response necessitates applying more pressure, leading to a surge of acceleration. While this characteristic is common in vehicles employing electronic “drive-by-wire” accelerator systems, it can become a source of minor irritation over time. Once in motion, the CLS500’s standard electronically controlled air suspension continuously adjusts ride height, damping, and spring rates based on driving conditions. The suspension also features console-mounted controls for selecting three firmness settings – Comfort, Sport 1, and Sport 2 – allowing drivers to tailor the ride and handling balance for various driving scenarios, from highway cruising to spirited driving on winding roads. A self-leveling feature compensates for heavy loads, and a separate button allows raising the vehicle height by one inch for rough terrain. The speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering, shared with the E500, provides precise control. However, some driving enthusiasts might desire more steering feedback. Braking is handled by large four-wheel discs – 13-inch front and 11.8-inch rear – providing strong stopping power. Advanced braking technologies, including four-wheel ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and electronic brake assist, enhance control during hard braking. Yet, similar to the throttle, the electronic brake system exhibits a slight surge, making progressive brake pedal modulation challenging, hindering smooth stops. While these may seem like minor issues, they are noticeable given the vehicle’s overall sophistication and premium price point.
Safety Features: Peace of Mind
Reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for safety innovation, the 2006 Benz CLS500 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering role in occupant safety is evident in the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500’s extensive list of standard safety features. Key technologies include electronic stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes with Brake Assist for maximum braking force in emergency situations. In the event of a collision, the CLS500 offers advanced multi-stage front airbags, along with front and rear side-impact and side-curtain airbags for enhanced protection in broadside impacts. Mercedes-Benz’s TeleAid system, using GPS technology and including one year of complimentary service, can automatically transmit the vehicle’s location to emergency services if airbags are deployed in a severe accident.
Value and Pricing: A Premium Proposition
The 2006 Benz CLS500 represents a significant financial investment, placing it in a price range with numerous attractive luxury coupes and sedans. The 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500, finished in granite grey metallic paint with a scratch-resistant clear coat, comes generously equipped with standard luxury amenities. These include four-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, a universal garage door opener, and a power sunroof. Starting at a base price of $66,920 (including destination and gas guzzler tax), our test vehicle included optional features totaling $5,380. These options comprised the Lighting Package with active xenon headlights ($1,220), the Premium Package featuring ventilated and heated front seats, DVD navigation, power rear sunshade, and a Harmon Kardon audio system ($3,650), and a power trunk closer ($510), bringing the total to $72,300. This price point positions the CLS500 among a wide array of compelling luxury coupes and sedans, making the decision of whether the CLS500 offers good value a highly personal one.
Final Verdict: Style Over Utilitarianism?
Like many style-focused vehicles, the 2006 Benz CLS500 prioritizes aesthetics, resulting in some compromises in practicality. Ultimately, like all things fashionable, the CLS sacrifices some practicality for its stylish appearance. However, for buyers seeking a vehicle that commands attention while still offering space for occasional passengers, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500’s unique blend of style and functionality may outweigh its minor shortcomings.
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500 Specifications:
- Test Vehicle Price: $72,300 (including $720 destination)
- Engine: 5.0-liter V8
- Horsepower: 302 hp @ 5,600 rpm
- Torque: 339 lb-ft @ 2,700-4,250 rpm
- Transmission: 7-speed Sportronic automatic
- Curb Weight: 3,812 lbs
- EPA Fuel Economy: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- Observed Fuel Economy: 15.5 mpg
- Length: 193.3 inches
- Width: 73.7 inches
- Wheelbase: 112.4 inches
- Height: 55.2 inches
- Legroom (Front/Rear): 42.1 / 28.1 inches
- Headroom (Front/Rear): 36.9 / 36.1 inches
- Seating Capacity: 4
- Cargo Volume: 15.8 cu ft
- Competitors: Audi A6 4.2, BMW 545i, BMW 645Ci, Cadillac STS V8, Cadillac STS-V, Chrysler 300C SRT-8, Dodge Charger SRT-8, Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra GT500, Infiniti M45, Jaguar S-Type 4.2, Jaguar S-Type R, Lexus GS 430, Lexus SC 430, Porsche 911 Carrera, Saleen S281-E
Photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz
