In the United States, the high-performance variant has been discontinued. However, Euro citizens can still purchase it.
We shouldn’t be surprised that the 2022MY lineup was simplified after worrying rumors about the CLS losing its US status. The CLS 450 rear-wheel-drive CLS 53 flagship model and the AMG CLS 53 flagship model have been removed. This leaves the CLS450 4Matic to be the only version of the E-Class.
The situation is different in Europe, where the updated CLS continues to be a performance derivative. The AMG variant also gets a limited edition of 300 copies. Buyers can choose from either cashmere or selenite magno paint options, with body stripes above their side sills. This fancy version is 20 inches in diameter and comes with AMG wheels that have a twin-spoke design, as well as a high-sheen lip flange.
The Limited Edition will come with the Night Package II and Night Package III as standard equipment. The CLS 53 will have a variety of black design details and dark-tinted glasses to make it look more elegant. AMG Dynamic Plus Package also comes with the CLS 53. It adds red brake calipers and a Race driving mode that includes a drift option. The AMG logo will be projected onto the floor when you open the front doors.
Once inside, you will find a sportier steering column made of Nappa leather with carbon fiber trim and two-tone leather upholstery. The AMG-branded buttons on the steering wheel and red contrasting stitching complete the transformations.
The CLS has received a discreet facelift. It does not affect the engine’s performance. The integrated starter generator (ISG), adds 21 hp (16.kW) of power, and 184 lbft (250Nm) of torque.
Although the mild-hybrid CLS53 is not as powerful as the “63” model, it is still a great car. From a standstill, it takes only four-and-a-half seconds to reach 62 MPH (100 km/h), and then tops out at electronically controlled 155 MPH (250 km/h). The maximum speed increases to 168 mph (269 km/h) when equipped with the optional AMG Driver’s Package.
The CLS will be on sale in Europe by Mercedes this month, while its American counterpart is expected to arrive in the early part of next year.