2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS

Most Mercedes-Benzes give their owners industry-leading comfort and technology. The cost of that experience is an expensive base price with expensive options and below-average reliability. The brand produces a wide variety of vehicles for the U.S., including coupes, station wagons, sedans, convertibles, and even two-seat sports cars. Its two- and three-row SUVs that we’ve tested have powerful engines and interiors that are roomy and quiet. Generally, Mercedes-Benz fit and finish, inside and out, is exceptional and helps justify prices. Mercedes-Benz’s EVs range from compact to large three-row SUVs. Across the lineup, controls for the complex climate and infotainment systems aren’t as intuitive as we find in other luxury vehicles. Like most European luxury brands, used Mercedes-Benzes can have expensive out-of-warranty repairs, although Consumer Reports has found used models with above-average reliability.

Mercedes-Benz pioneered the modern four-door-coupe segment with the original CLS nearly a dozen years ago. Now, the redesigned third-generation CLS continues to rely on the same recipe: a sleek, low-slung sport sedan with some compromised visibility and cabin access. Fit and finish is excellent, but the controls are complicated. The CLS seats five people. The base engine is a 362-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, marking Mercedes-Benz's return to a straight, inline six-cylinder. Basic driver assist systems are standard, including blind spot warning, active braking, and a driver-attention monitor. Consumers will have to pay for the optional package that includes active steering and adaptive cruise control.