The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Class marked a significant evolution of a vehicle that redefined automotive design and created a new market segment – the four-door coupe. Building on the success of its predecessor, the 2012 CLS further solidified its position as a design icon, seamlessly merging the emotional appeal of a coupe with the practicality and comfort of a sedan. This model year showcased enhanced styling, advanced technology, and powerful engine options, making it a standout in the luxury automotive landscape.
A Legacy of Coupe Design and Innovation
Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history of crafting iconic coupes. From the legendary 300SL “Gullwing” to the elegant models of the pre and post-war eras, coupe design is deeply ingrained in the brand’s DNA. The CLS Class continues this heritage, drawing inspiration from vehicles like the 1936 Type 380 and the sophisticated 300S of the 1950s. Even earlier four-door models with coupe-like profiles, such as the 200 and 290 “Streamliners” of the 1930s, hint at the lineage that would eventually lead to the CLS. The progression of Mercedes-Benz coupes through the decades, including those based on the E-Class and S-Class sedans, paved the way for distinct coupe classes like the CLK and the larger CL-Class, ultimately culminating in the groundbreaking CLS.
Entering the US Market with Force: 2012 CLS Models and Performance
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Class debuted in the U.S. market in June 2011, offering two compelling models: the CLS550 and the high-performance CLS63 AMG. Both models were equipped with new biturbo, direct-injection V8 engines, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to power and efficiency.
The CLS550 is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing an impressive 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers strong and refined performance suitable for both daily driving and spirited excursions. For those seeking even greater thrills, the CLS63 AMG boasts a hand-built 5.5-liter V8 AMG engine, generating a remarkable 518 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft of torque. This powerhouse engine propels the CLS63 AMG into true high-performance territory.
Both CLS models feature seven-speed automatic transmissions. However, the CLS63 AMG is fitted with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. This advanced transmission utilizes a multi-clutch technology (MCT) with a wet start-up clutch instead of a traditional torque converter, offering the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic. The MCT transmission provides exceptional versatility and rapid shift times, enhancing the sporty driving experience of the CLS63 AMG.
Exterior Design: A Synthesis of Sweeping Lines and Dynamic Forms
The 2012 CLS Class exterior design is a masterclass in automotive aesthetics. It features refined proportions, a more assertive front end, and a sportier overall stance compared to its predecessor. The car’s muscular shape is defined by its signature sweeping silhouette, a timeless coupe form that exudes energy and power. The graceful roofline seamlessly flows into the C-pillar, creating a dramatic arch that spans the length of the vehicle, emphasizing its coupe identity while maintaining four-door practicality. The interplay between taut lines and rounded forms, a hallmark of modern Mercedes-Benz design, is evident in the CLS’s arching profile, sculpted rear fenders, and elongated overhangs, contributing to its sophisticated and dynamic appearance.
Aerodynamic Excellence: Efficiency and Wet-Weather Visibility
Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the design of the 2012 CLS, resulting in an impressive drag coefficient of just 0.28, a significant improvement over the previous model. This achievement is attributed to the car’s sleek body shape and a range of aerodynamic enhancements. These include specialized underbody paneling, redesigned outside mirror housings, and optimized contouring of the front and rear aprons and trunk lid. Mercedes-Benz engineers even utilized wind tunnel testing with rotating wheels (using conveyor belts) to accurately simulate real-world driving conditions and optimize airflow around the wheels and under the car.
Attention to aerodynamics also extended to improving wet-weather visibility. Aluminum channels integrated into the A-pillars effectively channel rainwater away from the windshield and onto the roof, where it flows into a drainage channel, enhancing driver visibility in rainy conditions. The windshield wipers themselves are advanced aero wipers, featuring a one-piece blade with integrated leaf springs and an aero spoiler, providing superior wiping performance, reduced wind resistance, and less icing in cold weather.
AMG Exterior Elements: Distinguishing the CLS63 AMG
The CLS63 AMG is visually differentiated by distinctive AMG design elements that amplify its performance-oriented nature. A deep front apron with prominent side air vents featuring black grilles and eye-catching LED daytime running lights sets the AMG model apart. The unique AMG front grille incorporates a large Mercedes-Benz star and a single lamella grille slat with a black accent. At the rear, the CLS63 AMG features an integrated lip spoiler on the trunk lid, which reduces high-speed lift, and a black air diffuser between the signature AMG twin dual exhaust tips.
Advanced Lighting Technology: Bi-Xenon, LED, and Intelligent Systems
The 2012 CLS Class features advanced lighting technologies, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. Standard bi-xenon high-intensity gas-discharge (HID) headlights provide significantly improved night visibility compared to halogen lights. These bi-xenon headlights feature a dual “eye” design, with the outer element for both low and high beams, and an inner LED running light. LED turn signals wrap around the assembly in a distinctive “C” shape.
As a world-first, optional full LED headlights were available for the 2012 CLS. These LED headlights offer exceptional white light, consume less energy, and have a longer lifespan than conventional headlights. LED turn signals are positioned at the top of the assembly, while a perimeter LED light encircles the low beam array in a “C” shape, creating a unique nighttime signature. The high beam is located at the bottom, and a row of LED daytime running lights sits below in the bumper. Even with the lower heat output of LEDs, small fans are incorporated to cool the LED clusters and circulate warm air to aid in defrosting the lenses in cold weather.
The CLS lighting system also includes active-curve technology, which pivots the headlights up to 15 degrees in either direction based on steering input, illuminating curves and corners more effectively. Adaptive Highbeam Assist uses a windshield-mounted camera to detect headlights and taillights of other vehicles and automatically adjust between high and low beams to prevent dazzling other drivers, while maximizing visibility. Rear LED lights for taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and side markers, along with an LED center brake light and rear fog light, ensure high visibility from the rear as well.
Interior Design: Flowing Lines, Premium Materials, and Advanced Technology
The sweeping exterior lines of the 2012 CLS Class seamlessly transition into the interior, creating a cohesive and luxurious cabin environment. The design visually connects the dashboard and doors, wrapping around to the rear of the vehicle. The center console and transmission tunnel elegantly merge towards the rear, subtly dividing the two rear seats and creating a coupe-like, intimate atmosphere for rear passengers.
The larger exterior dimensions of the 2012 CLS translate to increased interior space. Front occupants benefit from 0.8 inches more shoulder room, while rear passengers gain 0.5 inches of shoulder room and 0.8 inches of elbow room. The use of premium materials is evident throughout the cabin, with extensive leather and wood trim. Natural-grain leather and a variety of wood trim options adorn the dashboard, door panels, and center console, allowing for personalization.
Cockpit Design and COMAND System: Driver-Focused Technology
The dashboard design features flowing lines and a soft-touch polyurethane skin for a luxurious feel and seamless integration of elements like air vents. A three-tube instrument cluster behind the steering wheel includes an analog speedometer with an integrated color display, flanked by analog gauges for fuel and temperature on the left, and a tachometer on the right. The COMAND system, a central hub for infotainment and vehicle controls, is prominently displayed on a large screen atop the center console. Below the screen, an analog clock and fresh air vents add a touch of classic elegance. The COMAND system is controlled by a rotary push-button controller located on the center console, along with shortcut buttons for frequently used functions.
The COMAND system in the 2012 CLS includes a seven-inch TFT color display, AM/FM/weatherband/satellite/HD digital radio, Bluetooth connectivity, MP3 capability, a PCMCIA card slot, and GPS navigation. It also features a six-disc CD/DVD player and Gracenote database integration for media information display. An optional rear-view camera integrated into the trunk lid displays the area behind the vehicle on the COMAND screen when reverse is engaged, aiding in parking and maneuvering.
AMG Interior: Sporty Luxury and Performance Accents
The CLS63 AMG interior reflects its high-performance nature with distinctive AMG touches. AMG door sill panels and AMG sport pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs greet the driver upon entry. The instrument cluster features a three-dimensional TFT display with AMG-specific menus, including “Warm Up,” “Set Up,” and “RACE” modes, providing performance-related information and timers. AMG sport seats upholstered in soft nappa leather with cross-stitching offer enhanced support and sporty aesthetics. The AMG DRIVE UNIT on the center console, angled towards the driver, provides quick access to MCT transmission modes, ESP settings, suspension adjustments, and AMG drive programs.
Comfort and Convenience Features: Seating, Climate Control, and KEYLESS GO
The 2012 CLS Class prioritizes passenger comfort with standard 14-way power-adjustable front seats, including four-way power lumbar support. Memory functions for seat, steering wheel, and exterior mirror positions are standard for up to three drivers. Optional active ventilated seats, a feature initially introduced in the S-Class, provide cooling in warm weather and warming in cold weather through integrated mini fans. Multi-contour seats with a Drive-Dynamic feature are also available, providing enhanced lateral support during cornering by automatically inflating side bolsters.
Dual-zone automatic climate control regulates temperature independently for the driver and passenger sides, and automatically adjusts based on sunlight intensity. A multifunction sensor monitors humidity and pollutant levels, automatically switching to air recirculation when necessary. The KEYLESS GO system allows for keyless entry and start, adding convenience to daily use. Parktronic parking sensors and Active Parking Assist are available to simplify parking maneuvers. An optional electronic trunk closer provides power opening and closing of the trunk lid.
Safety Technology: PRE-SAFE and Driver Assistance Systems
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Class is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies, including PRE-SAFE predictive occupant protection system, ABS anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness detection, traction control, and ESP electronic stability control. Optional driver assistance systems, such as DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist, further enhance safety and driver convenience.
Conclusion: The 2012 CLS Class – A Continued Legacy of Design and Innovation
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Class represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the four-door coupe. It builds upon the groundbreaking design of its predecessor with enhanced styling, more powerful and efficient engines, and advanced technology features. By seamlessly blending coupe aesthetics with sedan functionality, the 2012 CLS Class solidified its position as a design icon and a leader in its market segment, continuing the rich heritage of Mercedes-Benz coupe innovation and luxury.
