A leisurely 61bhp per litre and power-to-weight ratio of 167bhp per tonne hardly raises expectations of the CLS 500 as a performance car, yet its standing-start acceleration figures are impressive: 0-60mph in 5.8sec and 0-100mph in 14.5sec. There is also excellent flexibility, as shown by a 50-70mph time in kickdown of just 3.1sec.
The seven-speed auto gearbox works very well indeed, with smooth up- and down-shifts and a zealous dedication to providing the correct gear at all times. There is a manual mode, which lets the driver harness engine braking, but unlike the AMG version, the CLS 500 will automatically upshift at the red line even in this mode.
Although closely related to the E-class, the CLS feels like a much more agile car than its more conventional saloon sibling, with less weight to the steering and more enthusiastic turn-in. We would never call a CLS 500 a car aimed at enthusiasts, but it convincingly swaps between the roles of capable ground-coverer and laid-back cruiser on demand.
In the softest of its air suspension settings the CLS rides very well, with a relaxing, flowing gait. However, there is some body roll and the middle setting provides a better compromise between comfort and sportiness. Not only was the extra body control advantageous on B-roads, but it was beneficial at times on the motorway where the car felt better tied down. The third – sport – setting does a convincing job of disguising the CLS’s mass in quick driving, but the ride becomes noticeably firmer.
It is a shame, considering the laid-back character of the CLS, that our test car was delivered on optional 19-inch alloy wheels. Whereas a CLS on 18-inch wheels glides over small road imperfections around town and on the motorway, our car became fidgety over badly broken asphalt. Thankfully, the excellent air suspension smothers some of the sensation, and the extra visual clout the larger wheels bring is some compensation.
