Stunning, smooth, safe - Mercedes Benz CLS-Class CLS350 impresses inside and out

Sheldon Williams, Gleaner Writer

The 2014 Mercedes Benz CLS-Class CLS350 is stunning in appearance and equally delightful to drive. It's one of those driving machines worth staring at in admiration.

I was eager to test drive the CLS-Class, although there was a tinge of intimidation. But I had to wait a while before getting behind the controls as Crafton Miller, sales representative at Silver Star Motors, took the wheel. At least the wait helped me settle my nerves.

With the touch of a button (keyless/go ignition start) the ultra-quiet 3.489-litre V6 CGI engine started and we were on our way to test the mettle of the CLS-Class. "The shift handler is on the stem," Miller explained, as he gave me a quick tutorial, emphasising that all the controls are at the driver's fingertips.

The CLS comes equipped with a 7G-tronic Plus 7-speed automatic transmission. Shift paddles on the steering wheel enable the driver to execute gear changes without having to remove his or her eyes from the road. The seven forward gears accommodate optimum engine revs, therefore reducing fuel consumption.

As Miller manoeuvered the vehicle along South Camp Road, the CLS driving experience was immediately exquisite. The car took off smoothly, with the almost silent engine. The little that was audible sounded like a sports car's powerplant.

And once the road was clear enough for us to increase speed (while remaining within the speed limit, of course), the CLS showed what it could really do as it surged forward with only a light touch of Miller's foot on the accelerator pedal. Braking was also efficient and smooth, as we slowed down at a pedestrian crossing.

The CLS350's 225 horsepower and 370NM torque resulted in me feeling as if I was aboard a commercial aircraft and a glance out the windows was required to reassure that gravity was doing its job by keeping us grounded.

Hill ascendancy

The hill ascendancy capability was spot on as we travelled to the slopes of Beverly Hills and Long Mountain. Climbing the hills and manoeuvering the steepest of corners was no problem, as the CLS showed nary a glimpse of strain. The option of choosing from four driving modes allows the CLS to adjust to the road conditions. Controlled Efficiency (or C) allows for consumption-optimised driving while Sport (S) or Sports Plus (S+) and Manual (M) enhance performance.

After we descended the hill, I was promoted from co-pilot to pilot and had the opportunity to feel for myself what it is like to drive a CLS-Class Benz. As I returned to the dealership in light traffic from Mona Road, the CLS proved itself as adept in company as when alone.

I was also impressed with the vehicle's leg and headroom. The Nappa leather used to complement the interior is eye-catching - it is used to trim the dashboard, armrests, centre console and head supports, among other areas.

The superb Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround system is able to deliver a customised audio experience to each occupant. But the feature which perhaps impressed me most is the dual zone thermatic air-conditioning system, which allows an occupant to control the temperature on their side of the vehicle.

High points

Other high points of the 2014 Mercedes Benz CLS-Class CLS350 include the climatised seats and individual rear sears, separated by a centre console with a folding armrest. No middle passenger blues here, a peeve for six-footers like me.

Other commendable features are a drowsiness detection system, which detects if the driver is distracted and might be in need of a break, and PRE-Safe brake and PRE-Safe system.

However, I did not like the inclusion of an analogue clock just below the vehicle's display screen. It is archaic and a digital clock would have been more ideal. Also, the location of the shift handler on the steering column will take some getting used to, as old habits die hard.

Built as a high-performance vehicle with emphasis on safety, the four-door coupé is available at Silver Star Motors Ltd on South Camp Road for $15 million at full duty or $13 million with a 20 per cent duty concession.