Used Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class for sale nearExeter

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 150
Average Price: Around £13,500

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 blends the practicality of a saloon with the style of a sports car. This second-generation model is a refined piece of German engineering, offering a luxurious interior with premium materials and thoughtful design. Available as both a sleek coupé and a practical Shooting Brake estate, the CLS provides 520 litres of boot space (590 litres in Shooting Brake form), with optional Easy-Pack Quickfold seats expanding capacity to 1,550 litres. The sloping roofline sacrifices some rear headroom for visual appeal, though taller passengers may find the Shooting Brake's additional 5cm of headroom beneficial.

The CLS excels as a comfortable, long-distance cruiser with optional air suspension that glides over imperfections effortlessly. Engine options range from efficient diesels—the later 220d achieving around 50mpg—to potent petrol variants, with the AMG 63 delivering 549bhp or 577bhp depending on specification. Post-facelift models (2015 onwards) feature an eight-inch infotainment screen, LED headlights, and a nine-speed automatic transmission on petrol models. Running costs are considerable, with insurance falling into group 43 and servicing intervals every 12 months or 10,000 miles. AMG models demand premium consumables and fuel economy around 20mpg, whilst specialist servicing offers better value than franchise dealers for this generation.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, luxurious executive car with surprising practicality, those valuing comfort and refinement on long journeys, and enthusiasts wanting AMG performance wrapped in elegant design.

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, value comfort and refinement on long journeys, or seek AMG performance wrapped in elegant design.

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) stands as a compelling choice in the luxury four-door coupé market, offering exceptional style, refinement, and surprising practicality. Whilst the Porsche Panamera delivers superior user satisfaction and the BMW 6 Series provides marginally better value, the CLS remains a sophisticated option for those seeking elegance and comfort. The Audi A7, though similarly positioned, receives a lower expert rating. The CLS's strength lies in its unique blend of coupé aesthetics with practical space, making it ideal for discerning buyers who refuse to compromise on style or comfort, particularly in the highly desirable AMG variants.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Review

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