Used Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class for sale nationwide

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 140
Average Price: Around £15,000

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class (2011-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Coupe style combined with surprising practicality	Less practical than an E-Class
Comfortable and refined to drive	More expensive than an E-Class, too
AMG versions are outrageous fun	Not the most exciting car to drive (except in AMG form)

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class (2011-2017), known as the C218, is an elegant four-door coupé that masterfully combines the style of a sports car with the practicality of a luxury saloon. This second-generation model is a refined and well-engineered machine that offers a premium interior with quality materials, including leather and optional wooden or carbon fibre trim. Available as both a sleek coupé and a more practical Shooting Brake estate, the CLS provides impressive boot space of 520 litres (590 litres for the Shooting Brake), with optional Easy-Pack Quickfold seats expanding capacity to 1,550 litres. The sloping roofline sacrifices some rear headroom for visual appeal, but this remains a spacious Mercedes suitable for long-distance family travel.

The engine range includes efficient diesel options—the later 220d achieving around 50mpg in real-world driving—alongside petrol alternatives and thrilling AMG variants. The CLS 63 AMG, powered by a 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 producing up to 577bhp, delivers exhilarating performance. Comfort is paramount, particularly in models equipped with optional air suspension, whilst the regular Sport suspension is firmer. Running costs are substantial, with insurance and servicing expenses reflecting the car's premium positioning. However, Mercedes specialists offer more affordable maintenance than franchise dealers. The CLS represents a classy, luxurious choice for those seeking style without sacrificing practicality.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, luxurious executive car with surprising practicality, those wanting a four-door coupé aesthetic, and performance enthusiasts considering the AMG variants.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising maximum practicality over style, or drivers seeking the most engaging driving dynamics in the segment.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the CLS if: You desire a stylish, luxurious executive car with surprising practicality, want a distinctive four-door coupé aesthetic, or are considering a thrilling AMG variant.

Consider alternatives if: You are budget-conscious, prioritise maximum practicality over style, or seek the most engaging driving dynamics in the segment.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class (2011-2017) holds a strong position in the luxury four-door coupé market, matching the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé in expert and overall ratings whilst offering comparable user satisfaction. It outperforms the Audi A7 in expert ratings and overall appeal, though the A7 offers better value deals. The Porsche Panamera provides similar expert ratings but with slightly lower user satisfaction. The CLS distinguishes itself through its refined comfort, surprising practicality—especially in Shooting Brake form—and the availability of genuinely thrilling AMG variants. Whilst not the most dynamically engaging car in its class, the CLS excels as a classy, luxurious cruiser that successfully blends coupé style with practical family transport, making it an excellent choice for discerning buyers seeking premium elegance.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.