The Mercedes-Benz CLS has always been about blending coupe-like aesthetics with sedan practicality. When it came time for my dad to replace his leased 2013 SL550, a sporty roadster wasn’t the priority anymore. He wanted something comfortable, stylish, and easy to drive. While I initially pushed for the V8-powered CLS550, the 2016 CLS400 emerged as the more sensible choice, offering a compelling mix of luxury and performance without breaking the bank. This review dives into our experience with the 2016 CLS400 Mercedes, exploring its strengths and weaknesses.
Exterior Elegance and AMG Touches
One of the most striking aspects of the Cls 400 Mercedes 2016 is undoubtedly its exterior design. Even years after its release, the car maintains a sleek and sophisticated presence. The flowing lines and coupe-inspired roofline set it apart from more traditional sedans. Our model came equipped with AMG wheels and spoiler, enhancing its sporty appeal. The Steel Grey paint further accentuates the car’s elegant contours, similar to BMW’s Mineral Grey in its ability to shift in different lighting conditions. The full LED lights, a signature Mercedes-Benz design element, add a modern and premium touch to the front and rear fascias. It’s a design that still turns heads and exudes a sense of luxury and style.
Twin-Turbo V6 Performance: Surprisingly Punchy
Under the hood, the 2016 CLS400 houses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. Initially, there were concerns that it might feel underpowered compared to the V8 CLS550. However, the V6 proves to be surprisingly potent. With 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, the CLS 400 Mercedes 2016 delivers brisk acceleration and ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in around 5 seconds, which is more than adequate for a car of this class and size. The engine is responsive and provides a smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. While it may not have the raw grunt of the V8, the twin-turbo V6 offers a balanced and efficient performance profile, making the CLS400 enjoyable to drive in various conditions. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, can feel a tad slow in downshifts compared to more modern dual-clutch systems.
Interior Comfort and Technology: A Step Behind
Stepping inside the CLS 400 Mercedes 2016, the interior presents a mix of positives and negatives. The comfort level is undeniably high. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making long drives a pleasure. Material quality is also commendable, with premium leather and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin. Technology-wise, the car is equipped with features like lane tracking, 180 and 360-degree cameras, and the COMAND infotainment system. While COMAND is an improvement over previous Mercedes systems, it still lags behind contemporary interfaces like BMW’s iDrive in terms of intuitiveness and responsiveness.
However, the interior design itself is where the 2016 CLS400 shows its age. Being based on the E-Class of its generation, the interior feels dated compared to newer Mercedes-Benz models. Elements like the dashboard, air vents, and speedometer design lack the modern flair found in subsequent models. The absence of options like a heads-up display (HUD) further contributes to this feeling of being a generation behind. While still comfortable and well-built, the interior is arguably the least impressive aspect of the CLS 400 Mercedes 2016.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros:
- Striking exterior styling with AMG enhancements
- Surprisingly powerful and responsive twin-turbo V6 engine
- Comfortable and luxurious ride quality
- Well-appointed interior with high-quality materials
- Advanced technology features like cameras and lane tracking
Cons:
- Dated interior design compared to newer Mercedes models
- ECO start/stop function cannot be permanently disabled
- Transmission can be slow to downshift
- Lack of a noticeable exhaust note
Conclusion: A Great Choice for Style and Comfort
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 remains a compelling option for those seeking a stylish and comfortable luxury sedan. Its elegant exterior design, coupled with a surprisingly punchy twin-turbo V6 engine, makes it an enjoyable car to own and drive. While the interior may not be as cutting-edge as newer competitors, it still offers a premium experience with high levels of comfort and quality. For buyers prioritizing aesthetics and a smooth driving experience over the latest interior technology, the CLS 400 Mercedes 2016 is definitely worth considering, especially in the used car market where it represents excellent value for money. It’s a car that perfectly fits someone looking for a blend of luxury, style, and performance without the need for a sportscar or the top-tier AMG models.
