The original Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class ignited the modern era of coupe-like sedans when it debuted in 2006, but the badge has lost some of its luster in the generations since as many rivals have entered the market, including Mercedes itself, offering the more exciting AMG GT 4-Door Coupe as an alternative.
The CLS-Class is currently in its third generation, and possibly the last due to the imminent arrival of another coupe-like sedan from Mercedes, the fully electric EQS. However, the CLS-Class will continue to exist for a few more years, as Mercedes has just updated it for the 2022 model year.
Unveiled on Tuesday, the updates represent a mid-cycle refresh for the current CLS-Class that hit the market for 2019. They are relatively mild, partly because the CLS-Class already received some technological updates for 2021, namely a new infotainment system and some additional electronic driver-assistance features.
For 2022, exterior updates are limited to a revised front grille, new wheel patterns, and the addition of the AMG Line sport styling package as standard equipment. Inside, there’s a new steering wheel with touch-sensitive pads and additional trim finish options.
It continues with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology, matching the current model’s peak of 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The power is sent to all four wheels through a 9-speed automatic transmission as standard.
2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
Technological highlights of the CLS-Class include two 12.3-inch screens arranged side by side on the dashboard for a widescreen appearance. One screen is for the instrument cluster, and the other for the infotainment system, known as MBUX. The system can be controlled like a smartphone and also responds to voice commands.
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection is standard, although many additional useful features, such as adaptive cruise control with speed limit assist, are only available through the available Driver Assistance Package. Automated parking and a surround-view camera are also available.
The 2022 CLS-Class will arrive at dealerships in early 2022. Pricing information will be announced closer to the market launch.
As for the long-term fate of the badge, a report last year claimed that Mercedes might eventually ditch the CLS-Class to make way for the EQS. It wouldn’t be surprising as only 1,206 units of the CLS were sold in the U.S. in 2020, and the figures for 2018 and 2019 were even lower.
