Mercedes-AMG CLS. 3rd generation, 2021 restyling
The 3rd generation Mercedes-Benz CLS fastback has been produced since the end of 2017. In 2021, the CLS and its AMG version underwent a scheduled restyling. The restyled model features a slightly updated exterior with a new front grille pattern in the form of small three-beam stars, a standard AMG Line styling package, a new steering wheel with built-in sensors (they determine whether the driver keeps their hands on the steering wheel or not), etc. One of the main innovations is under the hood: the European market offers a new CLS 300 d 4Matic modification with a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine producing 265 hp and 550 Nm, which is assisted by a 48-volt starter-alternator, which briefly adds 20 hp and 200 Nm. The new CLS modification accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, accelerating to 250 km/h in 5.5-5.8 liters of fuel per 100 km. In honor of the restyling, the Mercedes-AMG CLS has received a limited series of 300 units called Limited Edition: it features a special decor, including racing stripes above the sills, and rich standard equipment.
In Israel, the restyled Mercedes-AMG CLS is sold at a price of 1,004,687 shekels (as of the end of 2022). The cost of the “regular” CLS with the AMG Line package restyled in 2021 starts from 774,543 shekels.
Exterior
Exterior changes are very modest and has not touched any complex elements such as lighting or body panels. The restyled 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS can be identified by a different front bumper and radiator grille with the pattern composed of many small three-beam stars. The sedan comes with a new diffuser in the rear bumper, redesigned wheels, and new blue metallic color. The updated 2021 Mercedes-AMG CLS, as usual, differs from the ‘regular’ CLS by a different radiator grille. Here you can see what the third generation AMG CLS looked like.
Interior
The car has a new steering wheel: the entry-level version has three massive spokes with a glossy finish, the AMG version has double spokes. The set of finishing materials has been revised: new types of wood veneer with open pores have been proposed. The state-of-the-art touchscreen MBUX media system, advanced cruise control and a dose of new electronics appeared in 2020, as part of the first stage of modernization. The 2021/2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS AMG equipment includes everything (and even more): sunroof, panoramic roof, tinted windows, sports-type front seats with good lateral support, decorative interior lighting, all electric front seats with position memory, heating, ventilation and massage, front and rear parking sensors, automatic braking and an advanced parking assistant with a 360-degree viewing camera, 2-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, Burmester Hi-Fi sound system with 13 speakers and much, much more.
Powertrains
The new Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4Matic+ with a boosted 3.0-liter turbo in-line engine with a capacity of 435 hp has received the same 9-speed automatic gearbox and plug-in all-wheel drive with a clutch for connecting the front axle. From now on, it is also a mild hybrid, assisted by a 48-volt starter-alternator with 22 hp and 250 Nm. The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. Plus, there is a drift mode. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction regardless of climatic conditions. More powerful AMG versions have not appeared, as this niche is occupied by a 5-door liftback, the Mercedes-AMG GT.
The ‘regular’ CLS without the AMG designation has retained the 194-horsepower four-cylinder (CLS 200 d) and the 330-horsepower inline six-cylinder (CLS 400 d 4Matic) engines in the diesel lineup. Modifications with an index of 350 d and a 6-cylinder engine with 286 hp will no longer be available. Three gasoline versions remain unchanged: the 299 PS CLS 350, the 367 PS CLS 450 4Matic, and the 435 PS CLS 53 4Matic+. The cars with in-line six-cylinder engines are also equipped with a starter-generator integrated into a 9-speed automatic gearbox, producing 22 hp and 250 Nm.
