Mercedes specifications

Mercedes CLS-Class (C257) specifications and photos

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is an updated version of the third-generation four-door sedan, known internally as the C257. This mid-cycle refresh introduces subtle exterior design tweaks and updated mild-hybrid powertrains to the platform.

Years 2021
Body type sedan
Trims 12
Photos 20
Mercedes CLS-Class (C257) 2021 sedan
Overview

Mercedes CLS-Class (C257) at a glance

Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.

Introduced in April 2021, the restyled third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class retains its signature coupe-like roofline while receiving a targeted update to keep it competitive in the executive segment. The exterior adjustments are minimal but effective, focusing on refreshed bumper designs and updated grille textures. Under the skin, the CLS continues to offer a mix of rear-wheel and 4Matic all-wheel-drive configurations, catering to buyers looking for a balance of grand touring comfort and dynamic capability. The 2021 update also brings the cabin in line with other contemporary Mercedes models, introducing the latest MBUX interface and a heavily revised steering wheel design with capacitive touch controls.

  • Power: 194-435 hp
  • Engine displacement: 1950-2999 cc
  • Transmissions: 9G-Tronic, 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT, 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TC
  • Seating: 5 seats
Model guide

Mercedes CLS-Class (C257) overview

Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.

Design

The exterior styling of the 2021 CLS-Class centers around its sweeping, four-door coupe silhouette. The Avantgarde trim receives redesigned bumpers that echo the previous AMG Line package, while the AMG variants feature gloss-black front bumper inserts. A notable update is the redesigned front grille, which now uses a mesh pattern composed of miniature three-pointed stars. The sedan rides on standard 18-inch alloy wheels, with options up to 20 inches. Buyers can also specify advanced Multibeam LED headlights and a high-gloss black styling Night package.

Interior

Inside, the CLS-Class (C257) mirrors the technological updates seen in the related E-Class. The most prominent change is the new steering wheel, which features gloss spokes and capacitive sensor buttons. The center console discards the rotary dial in favor of a flatter touchpad to control the latest-generation MBUX infotainment system. Dual screens are standard, starting at 10.25 inches with available 12.3-inch displays. The cabin offers ample luxury with optional Nappa leather across the seats, door panels, and steering wheel, complemented by available open-pore wood trim and an Energizing comfort package with ventilated front seats.

Performance

The engine lineup includes a mix of turbocharged petrol and diesel options, many featuring a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The diesel range starts with the 194-hp 220 d and moves up to the 300 d 4Matic, which pairs a 265-hp 2.0-liter engine with a 20-hp EQ Boost system, topping out with the 330-hp 400 d. Petrol variants include the rear-wheel-drive 299-hp CLS 350 and the 367-hp CLS 450 4Matic. At the top of the range is the AMG 53 4Matic+, delivering 435 hp from a 3.0-liter inline-six, capable of a 4.5-second 0-100 km/h sprint. All models use a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Practicality

Despite its sleek, coupe-like roofline, the CLS-Class operates as a functional executive sedan. It measures just under five meters in length at 4988 mm and has a generous 2939 mm wheelbase, providing adequate space for up to five occupants. The trunk offers 520 liters of cargo capacity, making it well-suited for long road trips and daily commuting, though the sloping roof does slightly compromise rear headroom compared to a traditional upright sedan.

Safety and tech

The updated CLS comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active electronic assistants. Available features include Distronic adaptive cruise control, active lane-keeping, and blind-spot monitoring. Drivers can also utilize a 360-degree camera system and an automated parking assistant. The MBUX system enhances navigation by displaying a live front-camera feed augmented with real-time directional prompts. For ride comfort and control, buyers can upgrade from the standard passive dampers to the customizable Air Body Control pneumatic suspension.

Buyer notes

When comparing trims, buyers should weigh the efficiency of the four-cylinder diesels against the smoother, more powerful inline-six options. The mild-hybrid tech in the 300 d and 450 models offers a noticeable boost in low-end response. Those seeking sharper dynamics should look toward the AMG 53 variant, which includes a drift mode and a performance-tuned transmission. Keep in mind that equipment like the Multibeam headlights, Air Body Control, and larger 20-inch wheels may be optional depending on the specific trim and market.

Configurations

Trims and key specifications

Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.

Power 194-435 hp
Engine displacement 1950-2999 cc
Seating 5 seats
Transmissions 9G-Tronic, 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT, 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TC
Trim / modification Engine Power Seats Transmission
220 d 1950 cc 194 hp 5 9G-Tronic
300 d 4Matic 1992 cc 265 hp 5 9G-Tronic
400 d 4Matic 2925 cc 330 hp 5 9G-Tronic
350 1991 cc 299 hp 5 9G-Tronic
450 4Matic 2999 cc 367 hp 5 9G-Tronic
53 4Matic+ 2999 cc 435 hp 5 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT
CLS 220 d AT 1950 cc 194 hp 5 9G-Tronic
CLS 300 d 4Matic 1992 cc 265 hp 5 9G-Tronic
CLS 350 1991 cc 299 hp 5 9G-Tronic
CLS 400 d 4Matic 2925 cc 330 hp 5 9G-Tronic
CLS 450 4Matic 2999 cc 367 hp 5 9G-Tronic
CLS 53 4Matic+ 2999 cc 435 hp 5 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TC

Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.

Detailed specs

Specifications by trim

Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.

220 d 36 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 5.1
Top speed, km/h 237
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 7.5
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0 CDi
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Diesel
Engine displacement, cc 1950
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Turbocharger +
Power, hp 194
RPM at max power 4200
Torque, Nm 400
RPM at max torque 1600-2800

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive Rear-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany
300 d 4Matic 37 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 5.8
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 6.4
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0 CDI
Engine code OM 654 D 20 R SCR
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Diesel
Engine displacement, cc 1992
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Turbocharger +
Power, hp 265
RPM at max power 4200
Torque, Nm 550
RPM at max torque 1800–2200

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany
400 d 4Matic 38 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 6.5
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 5.2
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.9d
Engine code OM656
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Diesel
Engine displacement, cc 2925
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 6
Valves 24
Turbocharger +
Compression ratio 15.5:1
Power, hp 330
RPM at max power 3600-4000
Torque, Nm 700
RPM at max torque 1200-3000

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany
350 36 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 7.3
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 6.1
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0i
Engine code M264 E20 DEH LA
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 1991
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Power, hp 299
RPM at max power 58000-6100
Torque, Nm 400
RPM at max torque 3000-4000

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive Rear-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany
450 4Matic 37 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 8.5
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 4.8
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 3.0i
Engine code M256 E30 DEH LA G R
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 2999
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 6
Valves 24
Compression ratio 10.5:1
Power, hp 367
RPM at max power 5500-6000
Torque, Nm 500
RPM at max torque 2000-4200

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany
53 4Matic+ 38 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 9
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 4.5
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 3.0i
Engine code M256 E30 DEH LA G
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 2999
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 6
Valves 24
Power, hp 435
RPM at max power 5900-6100
Torque, Nm 520
RPM at max torque 1800-5500
Electric motor power, hp 22
Electric motor torque, Nm 250

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany
CLS 220 d AT 38 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 5.1
Top speed, km/h 237
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 7.5
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0 CDi
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Diesel
Engine displacement, cc 1950
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Turbocharger +
Power, hp 194
RPM at max power 4200
Torque, Nm 400
RPM at max torque 1600-2800

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive Rear-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany

Brake system

Front brakes Disc
Rear brakes Disc
CLS 300 d 4Matic 39 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 5.8
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 6.4
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0 CDI
Engine code OM 654 D 20 R SCR
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Diesel
Engine displacement, cc 1992
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Turbocharger +
Power, hp 265
RPM at max power 4200
Torque, Nm 550
RPM at max torque 1800–2200

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany

Brake system

Front brakes Disc
Rear brakes Disc
CLS 350 38 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 7.3
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 6.1
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0i
Engine code M264 E20 DEH LA
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 1991
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Power, hp 299
RPM at max power 58000-6100
Torque, Nm 400
RPM at max torque 3000-4000

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive Rear-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany

Brake system

Front brakes Disc
Rear brakes Disc
CLS 400 d 4Matic 40 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 6.5
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 5.2
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.9d
Engine code OM656
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Diesel
Engine displacement, cc 2925
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 6
Valves 24
Turbocharger +
Compression ratio 15.5:1
Power, hp 330
RPM at max power 3600-4000
Torque, Nm 700
RPM at max torque 1200-3000

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany

Brake system

Front brakes Disc
Rear brakes Disc
CLS 450 4Matic 39 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 8.5
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 4.8
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 3.0i
Engine code M256 E30 DEH LA G R
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 2999
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 6
Valves 24
Compression ratio 10.5:1
Power, hp 367
RPM at max power 5500-6000
Torque, Nm 500
RPM at max torque 2000-4200

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-Tronic
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany

Brake system

Front brakes Disc
Rear brakes Disc
CLS 53 4Matic+ 40 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 9
Top speed, km/h 250
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 4.5
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 3.0i
Engine code M256 E30 DEH LA G
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 2999
Cylinder layout Inline
Number of cylinders 6
Valves 24
Power, hp 435
RPM at max power 5900-6100
Torque, Nm 520
RPM at max torque 1800-5500
Electric motor power, hp 22
Electric motor torque, Nm 250

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4988
Width, mm 2069
Height, mm 1429
Wheelbase, mm 2939
Front track, mm 1618
Rear track, mm 1620
Kerb weight, kg 1800
Gross weight, kg 2410
Fuel tank capacity, L 50
Turning circle, m 11.6
Width without mirrors, mm 1890
Trunk capacity, L 520

Transmission and drive

Transmission 9G-AMG SPEEDSHIFT TC
Transmission type automatic
Drive All-wheel drive
Number of gears 9
Transmission manufacturer Daimler AG
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Germany

Brake system

Front brakes Disc
Rear brakes Disc
FAQ

Mercedes CLS-Class (C257) questions

Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.

What generation is the 2021 Mercedes CLS?

The 2021 model represents a mid-cycle styling and technology update for the third-generation CLS-Class, known internally by the chassis code C257.

Does the CLS-Class have all-wheel drive?

Yes, while base models like the 220 d and 350 are rear-wheel drive, many variants including the 300 d, 400 d, 450, and AMG 53 feature the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.

How much trunk space does the CLS offer?

The C257 CLS-Class provides 520 liters of cargo volume, making it practical for everyday use and longer journeys.

What is the top-performing engine in the range?

The top tier is the Mercedes-AMG 53 4Matic+, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a mild-hybrid setup. It produces 435 horsepower and achieves a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds.

What are the main interior updates for 2021?

The interior gains a redesigned steering wheel with capacitive touch buttons, a touchpad replacing the older rotary dial, and the latest iteration of the MBUX infotainment system.

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