The Mercedes-Benz CLS will greet the 2022 model year with a facelift but no mechanical changes.
The CLS is positioned as a more stylish, slightly less opulent alternative to the brand’s flagship S-Class sedan. It sits on the bones of the E-Class sedan but fights in a heavier weight class. Mercedes calls it a “4-door coupe,” something like the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe or Audi A7.
The German automaker hasn’t announced pricing yet, but the 2021 CLS comes at an MSRP of between $70,300 and $81,550, depending on trim. The updated CLS will go on sale early in 2022.
Some of the exterior changes are entirely new. Both front and rear bumpers have been reshaped, and we think the new ones accent the curvy nature of the CLS a bit better than the outgoing model. A new grille is unremarkable from a distance, but up close the filigree-like metalwork is made up entirely of 3-point stars. With this car, you get logos under your logo.
Other exterior changes are things we’ve seen before. The side skirts of the 2022 CLS are available on the 2021 as the AMG Line package. Several new colors are available, and two new sets of 19-inch wheels are on offer. Stepping up to 20-inch wheels gets you a bi-color look.
Inside, changes are restrained. The steering wheel is a new model and features capacitive touch buttons. Several new color combinations will be offered – including the sleek grey wood trim pictured above.
No mechanical upgrades mean the CLS will carry on with its 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that’s good for 362 horsepower, 9-speed automatic, and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive.
