The Mercedes CLS55 AMG Makes No Sense on Paper, So Does It In Real Life?

In today's video, I am driving the Mercedes CLS for the first time ever. The styling has never won me over, but the car has a luxurious interior and a thumping 5.4L V8 engine - so can those be enough to win some approval?
#MercedesBenz #CLS #AMG
Today's headline sponsor: CarVertical, The History Checking Service
Use Code JM20 for a discount
bit.ly/JayEmmCarVertical
Want to see your car on the channel? Email me on [e-mail]
**********OUR CHANNEL PARTNERS**********
Dodo Juice - Award Winning Detailing Products
Get 10% off Dodo Juice's British Made Detailing Products with code: JAYEMM10
Shop at www.dodojuice.net
RoadStr
The App for Car People and Car Meets
RoadStr.io/invite
CarVertical
The History Checking Service - Use This Link for A Discount!
www.carvertical.com/gb/landin...
CRG Diagnostics
The experts in ADAS recalibration
collisionrepairgroup.com/
FIRE SAFETY STICK
The World's Lightest and Most Compact Fire Extinguisher
firesafetystick.com/
***********************************************************************************
Want More JayEmm? Become a channel member for access to exclusive content!
/ @jayemmoncars

[@Christian---]

Honestly the old CLS is to my eyes a handsome car and there aren't many cars like it that are meant for exactly a singular purpose - a shuttle for you and your 3 friends for bombing a highway to nowhere in particular, to do nothing in particular.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

"Honestly"? No, we would not want that. Please be DISHONEST and tell us what you really think, LAME and SILLY person.

[@JayMaverick]

Accurate.

[@brownhairydog6472]

Here in Australia we know the Germans copied our own AU Falcon..

[@RobinHood-qy7vt]

You mean like....... A saloon? 🙄

[@Beer_Dad1975]

@@brownhairydog6472 And the Hyundai copied it for the 6th gen Sonata too... all 3 ugly fruckers in my opinion, they look like they've been in the sun to long and melted a bit at the ends.

[@samuelbainbridge2049]

i love the way the cls looks. Its probably the one mercedes i’d consider owning

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

You obviously do not know any better. LAUGHABLE. Ever heard of the CL class? NOW THAT IS A REAL COUPE< AND NOTFUGLY like the bastard CLS.

[@R-Tap]

Yeh, always loved CLS, even when copycat A7 and 6 GC came along. I see a good few 2015 diesel amg line about, they still look cool, in red!

[@shastaweston]

@@R-Tap No the A7 looks nothing like a CLS body style, it's more angled and Stern at the rear

[@R-Tap]

@@shastaweston apologies, by copycat I mean Audi and BMW copied the coupaloon concept.

[@exceptionallife4768]

Own one, then give your opinion

[@77CJJ]

Love the original CLS shape. Very striking, and still is IMO. ❤

[@heikkiremes5661]

Same.

[@rotorhead5006]

Same here. When it launched, it caught my eye straight off the bat!

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

I DO NOT AT ALL. The plain and cheaper E class of the same era looks MUCH better and can sit REAL people in the back, not just DWARFS (or is it "little people"?) I LOVE COUPES, but this bastard fugly 4 door is NO COUPE. BUy a CL AMG masterpiece and see what a TRULY beautiful car SHOULD be like.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

If you like things that look slightly melted I guess.

[@phil955i]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 have you got issues?

[@modmod392]

Not many 17 year old performance cars hold up this well

[@mikealanzo]

Same with the SL and S from that era, 2003 - 2006....

[@naudi0101]

@@mikealanzo the sl55s went to 2008

[@mikealanzo]

@@naudi0101 Oh.. you're right... I'm more into S and SL personally, hence why I didn't keep track of the CLS's end year... :)

[@melloman999]

The 550 cls is one of the most comfortable cars I ever sat in. The suspension is unreal. It was like floating on air

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

this is LAUGHABLE. the back seat is NOT for Adult Human Beings, and the looks SUCK. JAy Em is 100% RIGHT.

[@johnguidetti5839]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 Looks are subjective you idiot. And who told you he’s talking about the back seats the front would be as comfortable as the E class and rides on air suspension…

[@phil955i]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 er, have you read the comments. The vast majority disagree

[@devon9643]

I have a 2008 CLS550, which still gets looks about town...121k strong.

[@dominicrusho]

One of my all time favourite cars, and a future classic in my book. Beautiful design. The later CLS models just looked handsome, but a bit blobby and generic - this is sharp and striking.

[@KnightIndustries572]

Their horrible reliability and ridiculous complexity may put a spanner in the works.

[@craigjones7773]

@@KnightIndustries572 I disagree totally as o owned 1 for 2 years with just a split compressed hose being the only issue

[@darealberrygarcia]

It's here to stay

[@paulie-g]

@@KnightIndustries572 A W212/C218 CLS makes someone I know well very happy, and as long as you don't go earlier than 2015 most people would be, too. They've started skimping a bit on the interior, but on the bright side it now goes 'round corners beautifully and hugs your torso while doing so (with the multi-contour seat option).

[@EnjinTale]

@@KnightIndustries572 this is the most reliable AMG engine ever produced… Many examples above 300k miles and have proven themselves to be insanely reliable. someone didn’t do their homework

[@scottbrooks3402]

I really like the cls shape, the face-lift is slightly better. Anything with the M113k with the 722.6 gearbox, gets my vote, fabulous engine, and one of the most reliable you will find.

[@neonman1604]

Agreed, 5.4l with the 5 speed auto is a superb drivetrain

[@kobetwo]

@@neonman1604 Owned a E55 couple years ago, the motor is fantastic but the 5 speed is simply ancient

[@MidnightDUB]

There was a run of m113 with 7gtronic, probably best combo for percect daily

[@antonis5999]

@@kobetwo ancient, pretty slow but mega reliable

[@scottbrooks3402]

@@MidnightDUB The 7g wasn't as strong torque wise, especially if your looking to increase power

[@000GunterGabriel000]

Great looking car, even today! I also remember seeing it the first time on the Autobahn. Especially the back and the sidelines were years ahead of the times.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

WHAT DRUGS ARE ALL OF YOU GUYS TAKING? THis is a BASTARD vehicle that looks worse than even the cheaper E class sedan which it is based on!

[@Christian---]

The coupe-sedan is a very sought after design for the germans but I think none have really ever captured it like the CLS, the shape is almost like a perfection of the japanese hatch-sedan mould like the Mazda 626, Toyota Avensis and some 90s Corollas. Certainly cars like the CLA do not hit the mark nearly like it.

[@hexagonosaurus5848]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 who hurt u 🤡

[@FilipRauh]

When I was a little kid my dad used to go to dealerships with me so I could check out the cars. I couldn’t believe my 7 year old eyes when I first saw the CLS. Such a timeless design.

[@Techjunkiero]

One of my all time fav MB. Revolutionary design, I was in love when I saw it for the first time. The CLS was a pioneer for other brands, the A7 for example. Gorgeous design inside and out. Too bad this is not stock anymore, but nonetheless to say, a great car.

[@hamsterox9216]

This is a long comment, but it's for people who are looking into getting one because I own one so i'll share my thoughts. It seems like opinions on the design is a hit or miss, but remember all of the big names in car journalism thought it looked great. You may find one or two magazine articals but majorty of the ones I saw liked it. The car is an elgant 4 door sedan, despite Mercedes calling it a coupe, and it is a jack of all trades. One of these cars with the AMG kit is a stunning thing to look at going down the road. I sold 5 cars in my collection and bought this one instead to down size so I can have a car that does everything instead. I can drive it to work everyday and it would be reliable. I can go on a date night with it and my partner wouldn't scoff at it as being another one of my toys. I can take it on road trips and the seats would massage me and keep me heated and cooled. The car is so smooth specially on fresh engine mounts. I can take it to car meets with my friends and it would garner great respect amongst people who know what it is. You could park it anywhere and no one is gonna hurt it. I think the biggest point of debate here is the handling. Back in the top gear days when they road tested it, it was only a little bit slower then the E60 M5 around the track. 0.7 seconds to be exact. Now Mercedes cars not being handling cars is a common trope but that doesn't actually translate to them being slow on the track. There's two factors to this, the first is that they have more body roll with light steering compared to an M, and the second is that you're insullated from all sensations of the road to where people don't know they're actually going into a corner a little too fast compared to what they'd normally do in other cars. You will go 100 in this car and not feel it. It takes getting use to, but once you do the car will handle very nicely. My friend took his s55 to autocross and he placed high on the board. He beat out all the mid range sports cars, and lost to newer crovettes and porsches in a fully loaded executive saloon on his second time going to an autocross (first time with an S55). Yes a miata is maybe more fun at lower speeds but ur going about 20miles an hour and getting gapped by everything. Really it's a trade off. You can buy an M5 but good luck with the reliability or you can buy a CLS instead. Now as for MPG, it's a 500hp car. You're gonna get like 15-18 average if you're lucky. If you want more MPG for the horse power you're gonna spend more then 10k over the price of this one so how much gas are u really gonna use? Boot space is great so ur only missing out on the bench seat in the back vs an e55 but that's not really an issue for me but maybe for you. Either way. Get a Pre purchase inspection and you won't regret it.

[@ahemgee9542]

Lovely car and amazing engine. I have an E55 Kompressor estate. 53K miles. Still makes all the power -500 hp , but looks very understated . Re the CLS- It's spawned a whole new and very popular body type. Regarding the ride quality- the CLS is quite abit firmer than the E55, which is absolutely brilliant in terms of ride comfort. Also the engine bay and Kompressor on this would benefit from a really good clean .

[@adogmcdizzle]

Hello fellow E55 estate owner. Not many of us about! I think there must be something wrong with the airmatic on mine because the ride is poor, and changing modes doesn’t seem to do anything.

[@ahemgee9542]

@@adogmcdizzle definitely should be very comfy in even Sport. It should rise when the lift button is pressed. Also remember worn bushes etc can also have a negative effect. The ride in my E55 is better than my previous 2017 E220D and my 1996 SL500 which has very soft suspension.

[@adogmcdizzle]

@@ahemgee9542 thanks for replying. It sits level and raises up and down perfectly with no warnings. It’s the small bumps it picks up the most, bigger bumps not so bad but still on the firm side - from what you are comparing it to, it really sounds like something is wrong on mine; i’ll get it checked out,

[@mlbx2058]

Get Jayemm to review it

[@adogmcdizzle]

@@mlbx2058 He's already done a W211 E55 saloon. It was a white Japanese import. Once I've sorted mine out I would be happy to let Jay drive my wagon though. I'm only down the road from as well...

[@RoshanKumar-sk7ch]

Having owned one of these it’s no less than a wonderful car. The M113K is arguably one of the best ever Merc engines and with this being firmer than the E55 it just always felt a little more engaging to drive; both ride and steering were more analogue. Took me a long time to accept my newer CLS 65 Bi turbo as the CLS 55 was so damn good. Even threw it around Brands Hatch Indy circuit occasionally. You have to remember this was 7 years ahead of RS7s and BMW M6 Gran Coupes! Truly epic cars and last of a generation!

[@mrspinyablock6936]

How long did you own it and would you consider it reliable ?

[@RoshanKumar-sk7ch]

@@mrspinyablock6936 tbh sadly it wasn’t reliable and whilst I have at times been tempted to go back big boy Mercs of this age just aren’t reliable. I had my fair share of misfires (plugs and coils which are expensive as two plugs per cylinder), SBC issues, ABC issues, electrical gremlins (such as window regulators), and eventually a coolant leak which no one could diagnose so I let it go cheap advertising the fault as suspected crack in the block. Most owners will admit to multiple trips to the garage. Similar story for my E55K of the same age!

[@wilmara24]

@@RoshanKumar-sk7ch I'm actually considering a cls 63 bi turbo. How has the reliability been? Do you have any complaints? Any input would be greatly appreciated . Cheers!

[@RoshanKumar-sk7ch]

@@wilmara24 I picked up a high mileage very well spec’d example and aside from a coil pack after a remap it gave me no issues. Got tracked semi-regularly, only thing I’d get through is tyres. It would embarrass track cars on the straights and I miss it, I’m sure you’ll enjoy very much!

[@DanielBenzs65AMG]

There’s no such thing as a cls65 what are you even talking about? Smh

[@defconluke]

I bought a 2007 CLS63 just over 3 years ago and you've pretty much nailed the car in this review. I was originally looking for a W211 E63 but found a well looked after CLS and a deal was done. Mine has also been quite reliable, only needing a new battery because I didn't want to trust the OEM, 15 year old one during a very cold winter and an airmatic pump (£300, 3 bolts and about 10 minutes to replace). Suspension is on the stiffer side (Sport 2 is all but unusable in the UK) and definitely suited to faster and more open roads than the sort of back roads that you would search out in a hot hatch but as a daily driver they are supremely comfortable and putting your foot down will always put a smile on your face before you realise that you should probably ease off a bit. The rear seats can be tight for people 6ft+ and I wish they folded because it would be a lot more practical but it also means anything kept in the boot area is very secure. Definitely held its value over the past few years but I can't imagine there being a queue of people lining up to buy if/when the time to sell comes but for now; it's not going anywhere.

[@J4cko999]

I had a CLS 500 with the 5.5 engine, loved it, 388 bhp so went well enough, did consider getting a 55 but kind of too similar and you get to a point where you don’t go many longer trips due to the fuel aspect and they aren’t much good for local stuff or B roads. It’s a sort of paradox that comes with all lovely big V8 supercharged barges of trying to run one and paying for your own fuel, tax etc.

[@pavelpavlov954]

The CLS is outstanding... The menacing shape it has... The amazing interior... The AMG version is timeless classic!!!

[@Gorbyrev]

There is something pleasingly art deco to the CLS design which is preserved in the every so slightly more practical Shooting Brake. That noise is so reminiscent of the McLaren SLR which had a similar powerplant. It sounds amazing. Also did you pass a Citroen Synergie? Only a couple of hundred of those left on the road. That would make an interesting review seeing as you've already covered the R8 that you also passed.

[@christopherp8926]

Just sayin, you know the Shooting Brake was released one generation and 9 years later than the CLS in this video? Its kinda hard to relate :D

[@Gorbyrev]

@@christopherp8926 Pointless boat wood in the load bay please.

[@DomWayne]

I’ve always loved the styling of the CLS. Especially the windows actually. I fell in love with these as a kid when I sat in it at London Motor Show.

[@rickybobby5950]

I love this era of AMG cars. I am the 3rd owner of a low mile, 2005 E55 with a 77mm VRP pulley, RaceIQ tune, MK Ultra Stage 1 TCU and other assorted supporting upgrades and I do all of my own work. I replaced the Airmatic suspension with BC Racing adjustable coil overs to address the Achilles heel of this era Merc and it’s the very well sorted for a car that is almost 2 decades old. I have a set of long tube headers, looped fuel rail and some cooling mods just sitting on a shelf waiting for the mood to strike me to tear into it. I hit an HOV lane marker this week and cracked the bumper pretty badly and lost the lower mesh grill so I may do an E63 conversion while I have the bumper off to do the intercooler. After 3 years of owning my first AMG, i’m amazed at how good and reliable these cars are, even all these years later. It’s completely stock on the outside and still has quiet exhaust so many young guys in ScatPacks, etc. have no idea what it is until it’s too late and the look on their face when a geezer in an old E class runs off and leaves them is absolutely priceless! 😂

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

That was truly the golden age of AMG... They're never gonna make em like that again. But I do agree, the E55/E63 wagons are the ones to have.

[@joshuakhaos4451]

Ahh yes, the early to late 2000s. Back when the AMG badge had not yet been bastardized and the cars were something that seemed like a true luxury as opposed to a cheapened image sub brand.

[@nagylevi3827]

A good interior, a roaring V8 and a respectable badge. It gets my vote.

[@slowcar828]

The cls was the start of the 4 door coupe which is so popular today. Not everyone can appreciate greatness

[@Carrera-gp9od]

That 5.4 motor sounds magnificent

[@Birkebeinar]

To my eyes it’s always been a handsome car. I really like the flow of it’s shape. That sound should be put into people’s alarm clocks, what a way to start the day😁

[@rotorhead5006]

Fantastic mile-munchers, especially in 3.0 diesel spec! Easy 600 miles to a tank, tiny bit less wind noise than its saloon brethren, slightly better mpg too (thanks to lower Cd swoopiness). 6ft+ back seat passengers always very comfortable, and a decently large boot. Loved mine, bought it when it was 5yrs old (a W219), MSL did a light remap to circa 255bhp, was very tractable, made regular 500-600 mile work trips in one day a (relative) breeze. Looks are always subjective, I know, but thought they were/are a lovely design.

[@weeevilswine]

When buying my e60 535d the only other car I considered was the 3.0 diesel CLS, needed something economical with power for road trips so eventually the e60 won because of the potential for power but I still love the looks of the CLS

[@Tuberuser187]

Thanks for all the great uploads.

[@Jo3man96]

A bloke down the road from me has one of these (not the 55 though, one of the 6 cylinder ones) in black in really good condition, and I personally think it’s gorgeous. If I wasn’t bothered about having a manual, I’d get my hands on a black CLS55.

[@benzinapaul7416]

I remember being blown away the first time I saw a CLS on the road, street parked in Bologna before they came on sale in the UK. The interior is stunning too and whether an AMG or a 500 I think they are lovely cars. The later CLS' lost the ethos of the original styling, the CLS started the 'banana' style of later Mercs but to my eyes the original has never been beaten. My other thought on the CLS is that it would have made a perfect Jaguar styling wise

[@merchantsconsulting8528]

I have one of these, a CLS55 in silver and black interior, remapped and decatted, dynoed at 545 bhp and 647lb/ft torque. It is sublimely comfortable, air suspension is not hard as Jay says, it's very absorbant and compliant, and generally, the car has been quite reliable. But as Jay says, when you hit the peddle, oh yes, you will smile. The midrange grunt is bezerk. Wanna go from 30 to 140 in 3rd?? No problem. With that engine and gearbox, this car is effortless. Extremely long legged. A supremely, comfortable cruiser one minute, a raging bull the next. Just love this car!!!

[@recruitmentch]

I agree that the first half of the car from the front isn't 'good looking' and now looks dated, but the second half and especially the rear of the car is a thing of beauty. I remember being a teenager in the mid to late 00's and seeing this going by and being in awe. My parents who are both doctors and do a lot of miles always drove mercedes, but they always went for standard mercedes models instead of anything flashy or remotely good looking. Once my dad was having his car serviced and they gave him one of these (obviously not an AMG model) for a couple of days, and I kept begging him to get one. Also. As a W204 C63 owner - any car that sounds so beautiful as this one done when accelerating is ALWAYS going to make sense regardless of the practicality malarkey.

[@Exilninja]

I actually like the look of this car, I think they've aged pretty well too. For such a large car its lines are really nice.

[@Stevieboy130664]

Great looking car - I actually preferred this to its successor.

[@leemace9638]

I’m loving the different wide range of content just don’t know what to expect next just awesome 👍🇦🇺

[@jayb3374]

It’s arguably the best AMG product, along with the E55 to have from this era (and even after). Bomb proof engine and gearbox and non of the ABC related costly maintenance risks. It’s preferred by many over the 63 and unofficially is quicker as well!

[@johanwikstrom5671]

I always thought these looked quite nice. The coupe/saloon is a difficult bodyshape to pull off but I think this car does it quite nicely

[@johndevenny6723]

Greetings from Ireland jayemm. I have a 06 cls55amg from Dario Franchittis family. Have had it 4 yrs now and have to say your review is absolutely true in good and bad points. The only issue I have is that the HP rating for USA at 469 and 476 Europe is I believe incorrect. Mercedes brought AMG inhouse at the time of the 113k. They didn't want to loose sales of the S55amg so deliberately put lower HP number to press for E55/CLS55. They all came from Afalterbach with 493hp. Excellent review sir!

[@jamesengland7461]

I love the closing shot with the tanks crossing sign!

[@oliverlanchester2632]

Absolutely spot on about v8 prices. Over the last year I've watched my xfr go from 27k to 37k back to 25k

[@fabiantavares1320]

The CLS are one of the most beautiful cars ever made to me

[@mattkirkpatrick7081]

Completely disagree with your comments about it not being good looking. It’s still a striking design with beautiful lines, almost two decades on. Timeless and elegant, and sounds incredible with that V8

[@benwilliams2933]

I've always wanted one of these or the E55; Previously owned a E280 CDI Sport and it was a brilliant car so I can only imagine it being better with that supercharged V8!

[@NDPhotonl]

Go for it, now is the time! I bought a CLS55 earlier this year (see my channel) and it has been a blast :)

[@diablocls55]

@@NDPhotonl I bought my CLS55 in March and I love it. Have now put a little over 5,000 miles on it

[@rv9990]

Had a guy in my neighbourhood a couple years ago who used a CLS55 as his car for his Taxi services. Don't know how that make sense. Uses way to much fuel, and doesn't have the most in terms of passenger space. Absolute Mad lad.

[@BenB91]

There is a special term for people like that. "hero".

[@subrosaBalumNL]

the first time i saw a cls i was probably 6 or 7 years old and it blew my mind, it looked evil and futuristic and ive never forgotten it. I've been thinking about getting one but my buddy has a e55 from the same era and while the problems havent been endless there have been enough problems to seriously notice it.

[@James-xo8dl]

Appreciate the Tanks Crossing sign at the end!

[@laservader1]

I've been daily driving my 08 CLS 320cdi in a nice "AMG daytona blue" with the later 7speed gearbox for the past 5 years now and I couldn't be happier with the car, I've done just over 40k miles in the car now and it's been pretty reliable (apart from the same over zealous parking sensors!) it's a metal sprung model rather than airmatic so I've swapped them out for Bilstein units. the car is remapped too and I can get 45/55 mpg on a motorway and it's quick enough for a daily.

[@mopatel2940]

I've always liked the way these look, then again I like Marmite also! They look Uber cool in the right colour in my opinion also. Great video, thank you

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

With an excellent turning circle ⭕️ too. Love the CLS

[@andrewsustek1685]

I fell in love with this car when I was driving a CLS500 for a couple of months... Very classy styling, nice interior with some CarPlay unit added and I'd be more than happy

[@bensmithkent22]

Re the interior. This was them making a return to form of old after criticism of the shoddy late 90s early 00s dross they had been churning out. In fact the whole car was a bit of an excercise in engineering. Their range back then was far more streamlined 3 box saloons, estates, a big ol suv or 2 and the original cleverly packaged a class (second gen). Simpler times. I was working in Essex mainly arounf 2008 and on the road for a living these and the Eos were my favourites to see. That one I’d like to see reviewed with the 2.0 gti engine.

[@robs9833]

I absolutely love my 55, owned it for 2 years and it still amazes me when you slam that loud pedal. Really not that hard to maintain too, and I drive like a dick.

[@ElliasFrederic]

Please rob tell me more, im looking to buy a cls55 and idk how reliable they are and i dont know much about cars especially not old ones so i dont want to be bombarded with problems

[@robs9833]

@@ElliasFrederic Oh it's good man. drive train and gearbox are really solid. Mines been great and it's now been 3 years. If you get an unmodified one then you really get to experience reliability ofcourse. You must look for one that has been maintained well however as they are expensive to own cars. The car itself can sometimes be an issue in the form of window regulators, alternators, batteries (front and back). I've had to replace these. The previous owner replaced the front two air struts which can be expensive so do look out for that. The brake also uses a hydraulic system which has a limited step counter so that is something be mindful of however mine has not had this issue. Bang for buck honestly you are not getting better. The car looks gorgeous, the engine is crack, it has instant torque and 2nd gear blasts you. With a secondary decat and X pipe it sounds like a roaring lion it's amazing. It's a refined place to be and handles well for its size, it does not feel as old as it should be but please do look out for a good one. Even if it's higher mileage, paperwork and maintenance is key. The gearbox oil should have been changed every 35k. I'd say have some money aside for immediate maintenance just to be sure. This is with any old car you buy and do drive one before you buy one if you can. On a rolling with a few mods they'll hang with the latest of fast performance sedans.

[@ehhov]

The first generation CLS is simply gorgeous. This trunk slope with the taillights... Stunning.

[@audes.4433]

When the cls55 amg model came out I just had to get it. I still have my cls55 and I love it (68k miles). When I got the vehicle I done some upgrades on it. Rentec chip, Exhaust, Lower Suspension, and larger wheels. 20's rear, 19.5 front.

[@joe718gt4]

I was invited by MB to preview a prototype of the CLS and give feedback on it. But anyway, I remember the first time encountering the CLS 55 on the road. Had a great supercharger whine.

[@MoJoAssets]

Had one of those from new in about 2005. Bloody loved it!

[@seanteh7120]

Drove a CLS 350 this generation and felt the E class was cheaper n better but a friend loaned me a CLS 55 for 4 days. It just felt so unbelievably better...the engine was a masterpiece.... everything clicked. I have since owned few generations of 5 series n E class but this video brought back happy memories. Thanks.

[@tnutss]

My father has one and it’s a great car! The airmatic suspension is the big unreliable for long road trips. 25 year manufacturers brake warranty is nice though

[@NDPhotonl]

I bought a CLS55 earlier this year (see my channel) and I can only describe it as my dream car, which I didnt know was my dream car. The CLS is a real headturner and doesnt need a loud exhaust to do so. Its also the Godfather to the Audi A7 in terms of looks. The interior and exterior are timeless (imho) and are very well put together as JayEmm is pointing out in this video.

[@megalamanooblol]

Not sure how you arrived at CLS being inspiration for 6 series, considering that even if you dont count OG 6 series, the new one still came out before CLS did. 2003 for BMW vs 2004 for MB.

[@rickbivins3400]

@@megalamanooblol I think he means inspiration for the gran coupe 4 door. NOT the 6 series 2 door coupe

[@NDPhotonl]

@@megalamanooblol You are right, I stand corrected. I edited my comment. I cant remember where, but I read that somewhere a little while ago

[@megalamanooblol]

@@rickbivins3400 I guess I kinda can see the argument, but honestly by 2013 this style became kind of a meta thing with everyone going for coupe roof line for the saloons. I actually remember from the first time seeing CLS loving the unusual look, but always though that head space in the back seats must suffer for the style.

[@diablocls55]

I get compliments on mine every other day, usually when I’m washing it or filling it up

[@rollotomassi8251]

Tack!

[@perarduaadastra873]

Such great funky intro music. ✅

[@PCBetter]

Great car and one of my all time favorite engines. I owned a 2006 CLS55 with the 030 package back in 2006. Had it for 4 years. Absolutely amazing. First gen was the best one they made. After that downhill

[@stevenkelly4608]

I have a cls 55 how can I tell what gen it is

[@AntoniusTyas]

The first time I knew of the original CLS was when my uncle brought home a CLS350 brochure from a motor show event. And boy did it look really good to 12-years-old me. Later CLSs are also gorgeous but sadly they killed the CLS63 after the facelifted second-gen to give way for GT63S 4-door.

[@PompeyMatt17]

that's my mate's car....glad it made it to the channel !

[@backseatcovers]

The noise is amazing. 😍😍

[@eze8970]

I liked these when new, no car looked liked it, so a bit more variety. Engine immense to. Thanks J! 🙏🙏

[@2702simmo]

Always loved the shape of these and have often thought about getting one and it’s about the only merc that appeals to me because of the shape You’ve now got me looking

[@joshuakhaos4451]

I remember when these came out, they've held up well in the looks department. My favorite though would have to be the 08-2-12 CLK/CL 63 AMG coupe. God them things are elegant in my eyes.

[@peterb3842]

Fun car. A buddy owns one, and the back seats are channeling for moderately talk adults- difficult to get in to and out of, and one’s head is always into the headliner. It really is an E-Class in pretty bodywork. I have a 2008 CL600, and the interior quality is many steps up from a CLS.

[@eunc00]

Given the original cost and it being based on the S- not E-class you'd hope the interior was better quality. What you can't get away from is the CL is fugly, too big to be much fun and all those toys are hideously unreliable, lot of car for the peanuts you can pick one up for though :D

[@dwtrksvc]

As an owner of a 2016 CLS550 with a Renn Tech tune, I can say that it's an awesome long distance runner that will make a lot of muscle cars look twice as it walks away from them.

[@astonmartinvee8]

We have had two CLS's - both C218, 2nd generation - a CLS500 (4.7 twin turbo) and a CLS63S (5.5 twin turbo). These are great cars. They still look good, drive and handle well, are generally well specified. The "shooting brake" looked good IMHO too. If you can get hold of one, suggest you try a CLS63S C218 facelift model (2015 on). They are easily tunable (although I haven't). Over its life I have an average of 10.8 l/100 or 26 imp mpg.

[@seinsmeld13]

Thanks Ian, Nice ride.

[@VoloKinProject]

It's absolutely beautiful. I still remember ckearly a Dark Red one I saw when new new at the seaside.

[@i.c.d.-videos1901]

Love the ending shot 😅. Great video as always & the car is the star with that awesome sound track.

[@ailestriker9888]

I saw one of these a few years ago from the rear and though "Oh, one of the new Mercedes' ". Walked round it and thought "Kind of an odd shape" and when I got to the front, I thought u had lost track and started looking at a different car partway through. I think the back and the front are designed a couple of generations apart

[@eunc00]

Thanks for the vid, confirmed everything I feel about my 55, a black 2006 that's been my daily for ten years now and still only has 55k on the clock. Suspension lives in Sport 2, Comfort is very useful for going over speed humps though. Ironically, because I don't do a lot of miles it's been the cheapest car I've ever had to run, in that time nothing has gone wrong, it only needs servicing every two years, insurance is cheaper than the boggo 350 diesel version and it's just old enough to get the 'cheap' road tax, would be double if it was a couple of weeks newer. On top of that it's now worth what I paid for it. Just popping to the shops is still enough of an event to make me smile every time and the consumption is irrelevant if not doing big miles.

[@Mooreish]

Never been 100% convinced by the coupe, the CLS shooting brake though 😍 Parking sensor issue was one of the rear sensor heads being pushed into the bumper. Kept having that issue on my E class.

[@Jam3sA]

Love the shape, and love the Pistonheads sticker!

[@thekingarshia]

1st gen cls is one of my fave cars of time. To me its one of the beat looking cars

[@WhiteMouse77]

Always loved design of orignal CLS, not wide AMG, the regular styled CLS 500, Brabus had very nice basic body kit too, just rear and front edge to OEM bumpers, side skirts and thin rear spoiler, that was it. CLS has ideal shape for conversion to landaulet where only whole metal panel of roof and rear window are replaced with fabric convertible roof that folds behind rear seats. The arch above doors remains.

[@UD747RED]

I love all the CLS versions.❤❤

[@Elaba_]

One of the most beautiful cars out there.

[@ic1815]

I remember in about 2005 - was going to the bank with my mom. Got out of the car and looked across the street and saw what I assume was the wife getting out of a brand new 2006 CLS at a Chrysler dealership (still DaimlerChrysler at that time) and that was the first time I’d ever seen one. I thought it was the coolest looking car as a 9 year old kid. Saw another shortly thereafter more close up and I’ve been a huge fan of the first generation CLS since then. Such a fab car - a much snazzier E Class.

[@matthewleonard5290]

I've owned one for over 6 years, I agree with you that these might appreciate in value in years to come so i am firmly holding onto mine, whilst keeping it dry stored and mileage down. Re the gearbox, there are now many standalone "tuned" ECUs available on the market for around £250 and they turn that 5G slop into a razor sharp experience ' especially in manual mode. 600bhp and a thunder of torque can easily be had for a few grand too!! Enjoyed the video !

[@aulzhoefer]

If petrol cars aren’t taxed to death

[@matthewleonard5290]

@@aulzhoefer annua roadl tax is £360 on these

[@mr_sparkly_face4087]

This is my achievable dream car, I just can’t afford to maintain one, or rather, pay for gas haha Love the design, the engine, the sound, everything. So classy

[@art2112ful]

Well this CLS 55 AMG being my fifth Mercedes Benz I've owned and by far the best car for the money Could have been so lucky landing...I can honestly say.. THANK YOU For making such wonderful engineering marvels and being the leader in thinking outside the boring box...I had a Jaguar in my right lane as I was traveling from San Antonio to Austin Tx...the kid .( I call anyone under 40 kid being that I'm a 54 going on 25) haha kept wanting to do a pull from75 ...The slow speed limit here in the United States...Well needles to say.he got his wish..His was also supercharged...but he either didn't know how to get the power of that' Lap cat or my 55 AMG really just has incredible power...but let's just say he looked like he pulled a parachute or air brakes...The Benz just never has disappointed my car taste.. Bravo to the German Auto makers....I'm in for life

[@bvc100]

Took ownership of a 2006 350 model recently. Looking forward to do it up a bit to be enjoyed on longer drives.

[@MyloMtz]

Looking at one right now, stuck between a 2008 s550 and this care. What made you get it?

[@bvc100]

@@MyloMtz this had the looks going for me. Also the S is too big to fit where I can park

[@Xtefanno]

i had this car in the past. absolute bomb. classic design btw. If I was collector, I'd have that

[@rods715]

The cls55 is a Fantastic looking car. Very reliable. Zero issues in the 4 years I’ve owned one and the 8 years the previous owner (friend) has had one. A window regulator failed, which I replaced myself. The sound , feel and sheer animal of an engine is music to my ears. I ended up tuning it mine, installing an x pipe , smaller pulley and upgraded the Bosch cooling pump. It’s that much more of an absolute monster. The transmission takes the power easily , and shifts pretty well in stock form. Upgraded tcu tune makes the shifting that much crisper (just had that done). The ride is comfortable in comfort , and quite a bit stiffer (still comfortable) in sport mode. This is with 20” wheels, low profile tires and Toronto roads(trash).

[@Brian75065]

To each his own, personally I’ve always loved the styling of the CLS

[@davekennedy6315]

I've always kinda liked its looks, it's quite a menacing looking car (especially if it were to come belting up on the motorway. You'd defo be getting out the way, sharpish!) Combine that with that bellowing, demonic sounding roar when you plant the loud pedal and it's a very, very gangster car!

[@15DEAN1995]

weirdly i liked the cls far more than the w211 e class (i thought it was a bit boring) when it came out but now ive done a complete reversal. i love the looks of the w211 while i think these are alright at best.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

You’re right the wagon of this car looks far better. I’m thinking about buying a CLS 250 diesel wagon. Just wish they came in more colours other than boring grey, black and navy. Nice video. Keep up the good work.

[@klauswassermann8054]

The 1st generation CLS imo looks best in entire factory standard form. Designer Michael Fink did such a great job with styling it from the go that any alterations make it look like a boy racer, even the AMG package does. I own a stock 2007 CLS 320 Diesel btw. which makes a quite pleasing 40mpg UK across country while delivering 540Nm when needed.

[@MidnightDUB]

Havent watched yet, but liking this already!

[@anthonycollingridge970]

Hi James I would be very interested to hear you opinion of this versus your Quattroporte?

[@mrdaykurutakuchannel]

I love this, being my favorite Mercedes sedan! Love it in white! Satsuki Kiryuin on wheels!!

[@tariqv]

One of the most beautiful cars ever built IMO

[@MrCams2011]

Bought my cls 55 6 months ago! The car I will never get rid of! Imo very rare to see others on the road! Plus it’s just a timeless car which will only increase in valve over time!

[@simonwinn-smith4972]

I own one almost identical to the one in the video! I love it, mainly for the engine. I can't wait to get it back from a gearbox repair... (ahem)

[@dj_zioneer5853]

Shoutout to the R8 spyder @12:26

[@tob564]

In my opinion the CLS is absolutely beautiful!

[@dF-ww8md]

Drove the facelift at mercedes benz world and it was a rocketship. The 3rd gear grunt was huge and handled really well on track for a big old barge!