We’ll miss the Mercedes-Benz CLS, that’s for sure. Underpinned by the E-Class platform, it offered exquisite looks, a great range of powertrains and dynamics that perfectly blended refinement and engagement.
A report from UK publication Autocar says the 4-door coupe will be canned as the Sindelfingen plant in Germany ramps up production of the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class. It may have flown under the radar and garnered the same attention as some of the other models, but it was around for three model generations and 19 years.
It’s worth noting the Mercedes-Benz CLS quietly left the South African new car market in the second half of 2021, and the facelifted model that was announced in April 2021 never came. At the time of its departure, there were just two models on offer, the CLS 400d and the CLS 53 AMG, the latter making use a hybridised inline 6-cylinder engine. Sadly, the last V8 in the CLS was the 2nd-gen and that 5.5-litre biturbo 8-cylinder was magnificent.
There was also a Shooting Brake derivative, but that didn’t make the second or third generation. Still, its a highly desirable model amongst enthusiasts.
So, what if you want one? Good news, as there are a few listed on Cars.co.za and represent good value in comparison to the current new car pricing carnage. For just under R1 million, you could bag yourself a low-mileage CLS 400d…
MORE: Browse Mercedes-Benz CLS stock for sale here