Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 2011 Review

WE turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering would you buy one?

What is it?

The Mercedes-Benz sedan that looks more like a coupe. They even call it a coupe, but of course it has four doors. This one is equipped with a torquey fuel efficient 3.0-litre turbo diesel.

How much?

Priced from $159,200 (same price as the 3.5-litre petrol model what a choice? It's another 50 grand jump up to the V8 from there.

Who are the competitors?

The closest competitors in design are probably BMW's high-riding ugly GT or perhaps the attractive Audi A7. But the Benz really nails it, based on the attention it attracts.

What's under the bonnet?

3.0-litre six cylinder direct injection turbo diesel produces 195kW of power and 620Nm of torque, coupled with a seven-speed automatic with drive through the rear wheels.

How does it go?

Nice. We love the V8 but this is definitely the thinking man's car. You might be interested to learn it actually produces more torque than the 600Nm V8.

Is it economical?

Claimed fuel economy is 6.2 litres/100km and it produces 163g/km of CO2. We were averaging 7.8 long-term but it was bang on the money over shorter distances.

Is it green?

Gets a creditable 3.5 stars under the Government's Green Vehicle Guide (Prius sets the benchmark at 5). Interestingly the 3.5 petrol model scores an even better 4.5 stars.

Is it safe?

No worries here. Gets a full five stars for safety. More than a dozen driving assistance systems on the new CLS help to prevent traffic accidents and reduce the severity of an accident. Active Blind Spot Assist flashes a warning if there is someone hiding in the lane next to you while the Active Lane Keeping system causes the steering wheel to vibrate in your hands if you happen to stray into the next lane.

Is it comfortable?

Typical Benz. Quiet, luxurious and comfortable. Individial seating for four occupants, with divided rear seats. The CLS is a class act and a stylish one.

What's it like to drive?

Like a stealth fighter. Slides through the traffic with consumate ease. Plenty of torque gives it a real kick off the line.

Is it value for money?

Fitted with 18 inch wheels, satellite navigation, LED high peformance head lights, Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound audio system and a 10GB hard disk for music.

Would we buy one?

If only? Priced from $159,200 before on-road costs. We get to drive them but we certainly don't get to keep them certainly not with what they pay us.

MERCEDES-BENZ CLS 350 CDI

CLS turns heads with its predatory look.