The 2012 Mercedes Benz Cls550 stands as a testament to automotive excellence, blending exhilarating performance with opulent comfort. This model year marked a high point for the CLS-Class, offering a sophisticated driving experience wrapped in a sleek, coupe-like sedan body. For those considering a luxury vehicle that doesn’t compromise on power or refinement, the 2012 CLS550 remains a compelling choice. Let’s delve into the standard features that made this car a standout in its class.
Unparalleled Comfort and Convenience in the 2012 CLS550
Stepping inside the 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550 is an immersion into a world of premium comfort and cutting-edge technology. The cabin is meticulously crafted with a full leather interior and elegant burl walnut wood trim, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated luxury. The 14-way power-adjustable front seats, complete with 3-position memory, ensure optimal driving and passenger comfort, adaptable to individual preferences. Further enhancing the driving experience is the 4-way power tilt and telescoping steering column, allowing drivers to find their perfect ergonomic setting.
For infotainment and connectivity, the CLS550 boasts the COMAND system with a 40GB hard-drive GPS navigation, ensuring you’re always on the right path. Seamless smartphone integration is provided through the Bluetooth interface, while voice control allows for hands-free operation of various vehicle functions. Audiophiles will appreciate the 14-speaker harman/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound System with Dolby Digital 5.1, transforming the car into a mobile concert hall. Entertainment options are further expanded by HD Digital Radio, an in-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer, an in-dash SD card reader, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio, providing a wide array of listening choices.
Convenience features abound in the 2012 CLS550. The power tilt/sliding sunroof with one-touch open/close brings the outside in, while dual-zone automatic climate control maintains perfect cabin temperature for all occupants. Electronic cruise control, remote central locking with SmartKey, power windows with express up and down, and auto-dimming mirrors (driver and rearview) add to the ease of daily driving. Practicality is further enhanced with an integrated garage door opener and intermittent wipers with a rain sensor. Finally, multi-color ambient lighting allows for customization of the interior ambiance, setting the mood for any journey.
Alt text: Lavish interior of a 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550 showcasing full leather upholstery, burl walnut wood trim, and ambient lighting.
Potent Performance and Handling of the 2012 CLS550
Under the hood, the 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550 is powered by a robust engine that delivers exhilarating performance. Producing 402 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 443 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 and 4,750 rpm, this vehicle offers effortless acceleration and power across the rev range. The CLS550 can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, offering sports car-like performance in a luxury sedan format. The top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph, ensuring responsible high-speed cruising.
Power is delivered through a 7-speed driver-adaptive transmission, featuring Sport and Economy shift modes, along with steering wheel shift paddles for a more engaging driving experience. The electro-hydraulic power-assisted speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering provides precise and responsive handling, adapting to driving conditions and speed. The AIRMATIC semi-active suspension with an adaptive damping system further enhances ride quality, providing both comfort and controlled handling. The suspension setup features a 4-link independent front suspension with anti-dive control and stabilizer bar, and a multilink independent rear suspension with anti-squat control and stabilizer bar, ensuring balanced and confident dynamics.
Braking performance is equally impressive, with internally ventilated 14.2″ front discs and 4-piston fixed calipers at the front, and internally ventilated 12.6″ rear discs with single-piston sliding calipers at the rear. The dual exhaust system with chrome tailpipes not only adds to the sporty aesthetic but also hints at the power within.
Alt text: Powerful V8 engine of the 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550, highlighting its performance capabilities.
Advanced Safety and Security Features in the 2012 CLS550
Mercedes-Benz has always prioritized safety, and the 2012 CLS550 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features. ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness monitor helps to prevent driver fatigue, while the mbrace system provides connectivity for emergency services and more. The vehicle’s structure incorporates a steel-reinforced cabin with front and rear crumple zones to effectively manage impact forces. 3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters are standard for all occupants.
A comprehensive airbag system includes front dual-stage airbags, front pelvic airbags, front and rear side window airbags, front and rear side airbags, and dual front knee airbags, providing all-around occupant protection. NECK-PRO active head restraints help to minimize whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions. For child safety, the CLS550 features the ISOFIX anchor and tether system.
Electronic safety systems include 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS & BAS (Brake Assist System), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and PRE-SAFE (Predictive Protection System), which can proactively prepare the vehicle for an impending collision. A Roll-Over sensor adds another layer of safety. Security features include an anti-theft alarm with an engine immobilizer, night security illumination, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a panic button remote key. Bi-Xenon headlamps provide excellent nighttime visibility, further enhancing safety.
Alt text: Illustrative diagram of safety features within a Mercedes Benz, representing the comprehensive safety systems of the 2012 CLS550.
Stylish Wheels and Tires of the 2012 CLS550
The 2012 CLS550 rides on 18″ staggered-width 5-spoke alloy wheels, contributing to both its elegant styling and dynamic handling. The staggered setup, with wider rear wheels, enhances traction and stability. The front wheels are sized at 8.5 x 18.0 with 255/40 R18 all-season tires, while the rear wheels are 9.5 x 18.0 with 285/35 R18 all-season tires. These all-season tires provide a balance of grip and comfort in various weather conditions.
Alt text: Close-up of the stylish 18-inch alloy wheels on a 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550, showcasing the 5-spoke design.
Optional Packages to Personalize Your 2012 CLS550
For buyers seeking even more features and personalization, the 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550 offered a range of optional packages.
The Premium 1 Package enhanced comfort and technology with a rearview camera, heated & active ventilated front seats, an iPod/MP3 media interface, power rear-window sunshade, headlamp cleaning system, adaptive highbeam assist, full-LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, KEYLESS-GO, an electronic trunk closer, and corner-illuminating lamps.
The Lane Tracking Package focused on driver assistance, including Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, enhancing safety on highways.
The Driver Assistance Package further elevated safety and convenience with DISTRONIC PLUS (with PRE-SAFE Brake), Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist, representing cutting-edge driver-aid technology for the time.
For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the Sport Package included all-season tires, an AMG sport steering wheel, AMG body styling, and AMG 18″ 5-spoke alloy wheels. The Sport Package Plus One took sportiness a step further with high-performance tires, an AMG sport steering wheel, AMG body styling, and AMG 19″ 5-spoke alloy wheels.
Standalone Options and Customization for the 2012 CLS550
Beyond packages, the 2012 CLS550 offered standalone options for further customization. These included 19″ 5-spoke alloy wheels, PARKTRONIC with advanced parking assist, split-folding rear seats, a wood/leather steering wheel, rear side airbags, active multicontour driver’s seat, heated steering wheel, and Night View Assist PLUS with Pedestrian Detection.
Available Colors and Upholstery for the 2012 CLS550
The 2012 CLS550 offered a wide palette of exterior paint colors, including Black, Zircon Red, Obsidian Black, Lunar Blue, Cuprite Brown, Storm Red, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Diamond White, Indium Grey, and Alubeam Titanium. Interior upholstery choices included Almond/Mocha Leather, Ash/Black Leather, Black Leather, Almond/Mocha Premium Leather, Ash/Black Premium Leather, and Black Premium Leather, along with optional Black Ash trim.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550
The 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550 masterfully combined luxurious features with powerful performance and advanced safety technologies. Whether appreciating its opulent interior, enjoying its dynamic driving capabilities, or valuing its comprehensive safety systems, the CLS550 offered a complete and compelling luxury vehicle experience. For those in the market for a pre-owned luxury sedan, the 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS550 remains a standout model that continues to impress.
