MERCEDES BENZCLS Class (C218) 2014 - 2018

　　Mercedes-Benz refreshed the second generation of the CLS in 2014 and applied significant updates for both shapes of the lineup, the four-door coupe and the Shooting Brake.

　　Starting in September 2014, the European market introduced the stricter Euro 6 emission standards. These were not related exclusively to engine pollution but also to safety systems, vehicle recycling percentage, and several other aspects. As a result, all automakers had to prepare their vehicles for that. Mercedes-Benz didn’t upgrade what was strictly necessary and called it a day. It also updated the car’s exterior and interior, even in areas where the newest set of rules didn’t force them to do that. After all, the three-pointed-star brand had to keep up with its competitors in the grueling premium segment.

　　The 2014 CLS got a new front fascia that featured multi-beam LED headlights that looked somewhat futuristic for that year. In addition, the redesigned grille sported a thick double horizontal slat that supported the center-mounted badge. Vehicles optioned with the AMG package sported a different grille with a 3D diamond pattern, which created a powerful illusion of speed. Behind the grille, the automaker installed the radar for the adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking systems. Furthermore, the lower bumper featured a broad A-shaped grille flanked by a set of scoops that hosted the fog lamps. From its profile, the coupe-like shape of the greenhouse remained unchanged, although the automaker deleted the chromed trims. Finally, at the back, the taillights were slightly refreshed and had a darker shade of red on them.

　　Inside, Mercedes-Benz installed a new COMMAND infotainment system fitted with an eight-inch display placed atop the center stack. Depending on options and packages, it supported connectivity with iPhones and iPods to stream music via Bluetooth. Moreover, the vehicle could connect to the Internet to get information about traffic and weather forecasts and even receive Facebook notifications. At the front, the high-bolstered seats were designed for comfort and fitted as an option, with heating, cooling, and massaging functions. Fronting the driver was an analog instrument cluster with binocular styling where the speedometer took center stage and housed a small TFT display that showed information from the car’s onboard computer. On its left was the dial for the fuel and coolant temperature gauges, while on its right was the rev counter. In the back, the redesigned bench allowed adult-sized to sit comfortably, although there was mostly room for two, not three.

　　For the mechanical part, the most significant upgrade was the introduction of the 9G-Tronic automatic (dual-clutch) nine-speed gearbox. It was paired with most engine/transmission versions. The automaker improved the engine lineup and offered a wide choice of gasoline or turbodiesel powerplants. Like its non-facelifted sibling, the 2014 CLS was available with either rear- or all-wheel-drive systems.

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