After launching the new W214 E-Class, Mercedes will stop Producing the CLS-Class later this year to tighten its portfolio – so long, pretty Merc.
After 19 years of production, Mercedes has decided to exclude the CLS from its lineup. The CLS-Class is the brand’s most mature four-door coupe based on the E-Class; hence the same engine, transmission, and similar wheelbase. And just like the E, the sleek CLS receives some AMG treatments alongside a shooting brake version to appeal to a broader market.
That said, Mercedes‘ announcement of the CLS’ death doesn’t really come as a surprise; after all, we can see why the coupe-like sedan is going away. For instance, the current CLS (C257) is based on the last-gen’s W213 E-Class platform, while the brand launched the newer W214 this year without any whisper of a next-gen CLS. And with the CLA-Class and AMG GT 4-door remaining on sale, those who long for a Mercedes 4-door coupe sedan still have those options.
Mercedes says the decision is aligned with its strategic portfolio to improve its growth potential. It also claims those in the market for a CLS could alternatively opt for the Mercedes EQS or EQE — though most would agree these EVs don’t look anywhere near as good as the CLS.
Killing the CLS is also part of Mercedes’ shift toward developing more EVs. Keep in mind the brand has already discontinued other models, such as the S-class coupe and convertible, C-class coupe and convertible, SLC, and AMG GT roadster — basically showing the door to most of its 2-door variants in favor of electric cars and SUVs. Rumors also say the Mercedes Benz A-Class and B-Class should soon face the same fate too.
While the German automaker hasn’t announced a proper CLS replacement, a prominent candidate could be the upcoming CLE-Class, a 2-door coupe/convertible that may also replace the E-Class coupe/convertible. This model has already been spotted driving around the Nürburgring under camouflage wrap, so we’re expecting it to launch pretty soon.
Fans of the CLS-Class should probably think about getting their hands on one right now, though. Who knows? It could very well become a classic worth collecting someday.
Gallery: Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
