Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (2012 – 2018) Review
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Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (2012 – 2018) At A Glance
Stunning estate version of the CLS. Has rakish coupe-like looks combined with 'shooting brake' practicality.
Top models are expensive. Exterior styling will not be to everyone's taste. Isn't the most engaging car to drive. Load space is awkward reach due to low hatch height.
According to Mercedes-Benz, every new car represents a tussle between engineers and designers, which probably explains a lot about the creation of the CLS Shooting Brake. A world away from the traditional boxy estate, the Shooting Brake is a large and practical car that disguises its stretched dimensions with rakish coupe-like looks.
Larger than the BMW 5 Series Touring and Audi A6 Avant, the CLS Shooting Brake has 590 litres of carrying capacity and enough room for three in the back. The rear seats can also be folded down from the boot to boost the load bay to 1550 litres, which is a huge amount of space for an estate. However, the CSL Shooting Brake isn’t without its faults, access to the rear is awkward due to the low hatch height and the low roof makes the space feel rather shallow.
On the plus side, the cabin of the CLS Shooting Brake is almost identical to the saloon, which means it is comfortable and spacious, with an abundance of high quality trims and materials. In fact, the swoopy Mercedes-Benz will provide executive comfort up for five passengers, with low road noise and excellent all-round refinement.
The driving position is typical Mercedes-Benz too, with a good view of the road and an intelligent dashboard layout. All of the controls are where you’d expect to find them, thanks to a large centre console and simple dashboard layout and standard kit is high, with sat nav, automatic climate control and multi-function steering wheel included in the list price.
The engine line up is limited to three options - the CLS 250 CDI, CLS 350 CDI and the high performance CLS 63 AMG. On paper the CLS 250 CDI is the best of the bunch, with claimed fuel economy of 53.3mpg and CO2 emissions of just 140g/km. With 500Nm of torque, it is a strong performer too and 0-62mph takes 7.8 seconds.
Admittedly, some might take issues with the name - Shooting Brakes were traditionally two-door sports cars – but we think the CLS Shooting Brake is a very good car. Not only does it provide a new and refreshing approach to the standard estate model, but it also breaks new ground when it comes to refinement and comfort. On the down side, it is very expensive, but still a credible rival for the 5 Series Touring and Audi A6 Avant.
Reviews for Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (2012 – 2018)'s top 3 rivals
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Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (2012 – 2018) handling and engines
- Engines range from CLS220 d to CLS63 AMG S
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 18–49 mpg
The CLS Shooting Brake is offered with a strong range of engines, which include a pair of diesels and one petrol unit. The diesel range starts with the CLS 250 CDI and a well-rounded four-cylinder diesel with 204PS. On paper the 250 CDI will return 53.3mpg and emit 140g/km of CO2, which strikes a good balance between economy and performance.
For most estate drivers, the four-cylinder will be more than enough for everyday needs, with an impressive 500Nm of torque that will propel the CLS Shooting Brake from 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds.
If you want more bang from your diesel then the CLS Shooting Brake is also available with a V6. The CLS 350 CDI is incredibly strong, with 265PS and 620Nm of torque that will outrun most hot hatches and cover 0-62mph in 6.6 seconds. Mercedes-Benz claim the V6 will return 47.1mpg and emit 161g/km of CO2.
The only petrol option in the range is the V8 that powers the CLS 63 AMG. As you’d imagine, the AMG option is brutal and fast, with 557PS and 720Nm of torque. Not only will this rocket the Shooting Brake to 62mph in 4.3 seconds, but it will take it to theoretical top speed of 186mph. However, like all cars in the range, the AMG is restricted, so this top speed is toned down for UK examples to 155mph. Fuel economy for the V8 is your usual AMG thoroughfare, with a claimed 28.0mpg and 245g/km of CO2.
Regardless of which powertrain you choose, the CLS Shooting Brake always feels relaxing and controlled. Both of the diesel engines are smooth and quiet, while the V8 rumbles along with racing purpose. Sometimes estates can feel a little slow witted or heavy, but Mercedes-Benz must be applauded for the work they’ve done with the Shooting Brake. It’s a well-balanced car with excellent handling. In fact, for daily driving, it is among the best estates.
Obviously, diesels are the most sensible engines and we’d recommend the CLS 250 CDI as the best-rounded unit. However, we'd urge anyone to test the V6 diesel. For sure, it's more expensive, but it is an outstanding engine and returns superb performance. All models are linked to a seven-speed automatic gearbox, which is equally impressive, with intelligent changes and a smooth operation.
We'd concede that CLS Shooting Brake is not an exciting car to drive - bar the AMG of course – but it is a very calm and enjoyable estate. For sure, the steering is a little vague mid-corner and the power assistance is on the strong side, but we don’t think this matters too much for this type of car. For us, an estate should be effortless and relaxing, which is where the CLS Shooting Brake excels.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLS220 d | 57 mpg | 8.8 s | 133 g/km |
| CLS250 CDI | 53 mpg | 7.8 s | 140–143 g/km |
| CLS350 CDI | 47 mpg | 6.6 s | 161–162 g/km |
| CLS350 d | 50 mpg | 6.6 s | 150 g/km |
| CLS63 AMG | 28 mpg | 4.3 s | 235 g/km |
| CLS63 AMG S | 28 mpg | 4.2 s | 235 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (2012 – 2018)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
80%
Real MPG
18–49 mpg
MPGs submitted
83
Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (2012 – 2018) interior
- Boot space is 550–1550 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4953–4971 mm |
| Width | 2075 mm |
| Height | 1416–1432 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm |
Contrary to its coupe-like appearance, the CLS Shooting Brake is a large and practical car. The cabin is almost identical to the saloon, which is comfortable and spacious, with an abundance of high quality trims and materials. Clearly Mercedes-Benz has given considerable attention to detail with its latest interiors and it shows, with strong fixtures throughout and perfect stitching, right down to the leather on the door trim.
Unlike the saloon, the CLS Shooting Brake will squeeze three adults in the back and both the front passenger and driver get plenty of head and legroom. Admittedly, you wouldn’t want to take five large guys on a three or four hour journey, but parents will be pleased with the extra dimensions as the rear is perfect for carrying a young family.
A solid centre console divides the front two seats and the driver gets a coupe-like position, with a dashboard that wraps around the seat. The driving position is notably lower than other estate cars - giving a sportier feel - but the there is plenty of electric adjustment and finding a comfortable driving position is easy, as is obtaining a commanding view of the road ahead. However, it must be said, the sloped roof of the car means rear visibility is limited and reversing parking is more challenging than other estate cars.
All versions of the Shooting Brake are fitted with an impressive amount of kit, with sat nav, climate control, leather upholstery, DAB radio plus front and rear parking sensors all included as standard. The driver also gets a colour HD display and all of the infotainment controls are simple to use and understand.
The boot of the CLS Shooting Brake is deceptively large, with 590 litres of carrying capacity that extends to a cavernous 1550 litres with the rear seats folded. On paper, that’s 30 litres larger than both the BMW 5 Series Touring and Audi A6 Avant, but in reality the CLS Shooting Brake’s low roof means the load space feels rather shallow. The boot is also awkward to reach, due to the low hatch height.
The CLS Shooting Brake gets some bespoke interior features, most notably the optional Cherry Tree wooden boot floor to give it a yacht-like classic appearance. There are also aluminium loading rails with rubber inserts to protect the floor and stop luggage sliding around. The rest of the interior is available in five colours, five trim designs and three qualities of leather. There are also three exclusive wood types: high-gloss brown burr walnut, high-gloss black ash and satin-finish light-brown poplar.
Standard equipment levels:
CLS has 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, leather upholstery, rear air suspension, Parktronic with Active Park Assist, Bluetooth, satellite navigation, six-disc CD player, touchscreen media interface, DAB digital radio, cruise control, seven-speed auto transmission, rear air suspension, metallic paint.
CLS AMG Sport gets 19-inch AMG alloy wheels, AMG bodystyling. Full LED headlamps, lowered sports suspension, sports brakes, sports steering wheel, sports pedals, AMG floor mats.
Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (2012 – 2018) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4953–4971 mm |
| Width | 2075 mm |
| Height | 1416–1432 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1845–1955 kg |
| Boot Space | 550–1550 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 12500–15500 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £49,395–£89,235 |
| Insurance Groups | 36–50 |
| Road Tax Bands | E–L |
| Official MPG | 28.0–56.5 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until June 2018
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| CLS220d 2.1 AMG Line 7G-Tronic+ 5dr | £49,800 | 56.5 mpg | 8.8 s |
| CLS220d 2.1 AMG Line Premium 7G-Tronic Plus 5dr | £51,895 | 56.5 mpg | 8.8 s |
| CLS220d 2.1 AMG Line Premium Plus 7G-Tronic Plus 5dr | £52,995 | 56.5 mpg | 8.8 s |
| CLS350d 3.0 AMG Line 9G-Tronic+ 5dr | £53,850 | 49.6 mpg | 6.6 s |
| CLS350d 3.0 AMG Line Premium 9GT+ 5dr | £55,945 | 49.6 mpg | 6.6 s |
| CLS350d 3.0 AMG Line Premium Plus 9GT+ 5dr | £57,045 | 49.6 mpg | 6.6 s |
| CLS63 5.5 S AMG Mct Auto 5dr | £89,235 | 28.0 mpg | 4.2 s |
On sale until September 2014
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 250 CDI 204 5dr Auto | £49,395 | 53.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| 250 CDI AMG Sport 204 5dr Auto | £52,405 | 53.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| 350 CDI 265 5dr Auto | £53,035 | 47.1 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 350 CDI AMG Sport 265 5dr Auto | £56,030 | 47.1 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 63 AMG 577 5dr Auto | £83,100 | 28.0 mpg | 4.3 s |
Model History
July 2012
With the new CLS Shooting Brake, Mercedes-Benz is once again setting an example when it comes to creativity of design, and as such highlighting its leading role in this area: in terms of its proportions, the new CLS is quite clearly a coupé, but with five doors and a roof which continues through to the rear, it promises some remarkable new possibilities. The idea of the four-door coupé – successfully introduced in 2004 with the first CLS and long imitated in the meantime – has now been taken to new heights and to innovative effect. The result is automotive independence at its most beautiful.
The proportions of the CLS Shooting Brake are surprising but clearly those of a coupé, and create a basic stance which makes it look ready for the off: the long bonnet, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows, and dynamic roof sloping back towards the rear. It is only when taking a second look that it becomes clear that the Shooting Break actually has five doors and offers "more" in terms of function.
An extravagant and unique feature for the automotive industry is the optional designo wooden luggage compartment floor, which serves to underscore the hand-finished nature of the interior. Cherry tree wood is a classic among fine wood species and contrasts perfectly with the inlaid smoked oak and aluminium rails. This affords the luggage compartment a touch of elegance normally found on yachts, combined with the exciting worlds of technology and precision craftsmanship.
No-one likes to have to compromise: even when the focus is not on the practical elements of the design of the Shooting Brake (length x width x height: 4956 x 1881 x 1413 mm), the new CLSmodel still has some trump cards up its sleeve. With a load volume of between 590 and 1550 litres, the luggage compartment offers a lot of room despite the flat, sporty lines of the roof, and is easy to use thanks to the automatically opening tailgate fitted as standard. A load compartment cover also protects luggage from prying eyes.
The standard air suspension at the rear helps to ensure optimum road holding at all times. For additional flexibility, the rear seat backrests can be folded down from the luggage compartment as standard. The rear seats themselves provide room for three people, with individual seats on the outsides and a third seat in the middle. The three saddle-type head restraints on the rear seats barely affect the view towards the rear, and can be lowered at the touch of a button by the driver. An optional trailer coupling is also available.
The entry-level model is the CLS250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY producing 204PS. Combined fuel consumption is 53.3 mpg, an excellent level for this performance class and equivalent to CO2emissions of 139 grams per kilometre. Coming in above this is the six-cylinder model: the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY producing 265PS.
August 2012
The CLS Shooting Brake is now available to order, priced from £49,360 OTR. The equipment list including visible exhaust pipes; Becker MAP PILOT (CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Shooting Brake) or COMAND Online multimedia system (CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Shooting Brake and CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake) and DAB; leather upholstery; Parktronic front and rear; metallic paint; xenon headlights; and 18-inch alloy wheels.
For a £2,995 increase, the CLS Shooting Brake AMG Sport offers full LED headlights with Intelligent Light System and Adaptive Highbeam Assist; AMG bodystyling; sports suspension and brakes; sports steering wheel and pedals; and 19-inch AMG alloy wheels. From October production, the Coupé version of the CLS will now also feature the AMG Sport replacing the Sport line.
In addition to the various interior colours, multiple trim designs and various types of leather to choose from, there is also a choice of three high-gloss exclusive wood types: brown burr walnut, black ash and light-brown poplar, as well as the use of piano lacquer trim elements.
The CLS Shooting Brake also includes additional standard specification over the CLS Coupé, such as the Easy-Pack Quickfold rear seat adjustment; Easy-Pack load compartment cover; and rear air suspension, helping to ensure optimum road holding at all times. In addition to the five seats, the CLS Shooting Brake also features a cargo space measuring up to 1,550 litres.
Optional equipment exclusively for the CLS Shooting Brake includes: Easy-Pack load-securing kit with rear sill protector (£255); privacy glass (£365); aluminium rails (£870); manually folding tow bar (£880); AirMATIC semi-active air suspension (£1,150); and designo American Cherry Wood load compartment with black inlays (£4,030), which provides the luggage compartment with a touch of elegance normally associated with yachts.
| Model | Tech Data | CO 2 | MPG | OTR Price |
| CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY | Diesel - 2,143 cc, 4-cylinder, 204 hp, 500 Nm | 139 | 53.3 | £49,360 |
| CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY | Diesel - 2,987 cc, 6-cyliner, 265 hp, 620 Nm | 161 | 47.1 | £53,000 |
| CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY AMG Sport | Diesel - 2,143 cc, 4-cylinder, 204 hp, 500 Nm | 143 | 52.3 | £52,370 |
| CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY AMG Sport | Diesel - 2,987 cc, 6-cyliner, 265 hp, 620 Nm | 162 | 46.3 | £55,995 |
| CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake | Petrol - 5,461 cc, 8-cylinder, 557 hp, 720 Nm | 235 | 28.0 | £83,030 |
June 2014
Revised CLS Shooting Brake revealed
The new generation CLS Shooting Brake will arrive in September, featuring a new look and packed with new technology which is fitted as standard the new car promises to deliver even better value and lower emissions, as well as being the fastest and most efficient generation of CLS yet.
The range now starts with a new engine – the CLS 220 BlueTEC. Powered by a 2.1-litre diesel engine, the new addition generates 177PS and 129g/km of CO2. The second diesel model is the six-cylinder 350 BlueTEC – producing 258PS and emitting 142g/km. The CLS 350 BlueTEC engine is linked, for the first time, to an all-new nine-speed gearbox as standard – lowering CO2by 18g/km.
Across the new CLS range there are significant upgrades in the technologies fitted, with AMG Line now becoming the default specification of the car. This means COMAND Online, heated front seats and the ambient lighting system are all fitted as standard (helping towards a saving of £5,695 over the model it replaces).
On every CLS a new eight-inch tablet-style screen is fitted as standard, running the latest ‘NTG 5’ software allowing new Mercedes-Benz apps, including the Mercedes Me system, to be downloaded and used in the car. LED Multibeam headlights are also fitted to the new CLS as standard – allowing benchmark visibility at night without dazzling other road users.
What to watch out for
Complaint that 2015 Mercedes Benz 350 CLS Shootingbrake has numerous faults and only achieves 32mpg.
10-11-2017:Report of fire in rear under load deck of 2014 Mercedes Benz CLS Shooting Brake.
26-11-2017:Another report of a fire in a Mercedes-Benz CLS250 CDI Shooting-brake. Owner had complained to Mercedes dealer about an intermittent burning smell coming from the rear end for some time but has been fobbed off by the dealer as something which will disappear over time. (Possibly the DPF actively regenerating at 800C.) Last week it eventually burst into flames on a friends drive. It was unoccupied fortunately but is a write off. Mercedes appears completely disinterested, claiming they have no knowledge of this occurring in any other CLS’s. Apparently there have been many instances and recalls in the US. This also appears to be a problem with UK models but no recalls and little cooperation from Mercedes.
