The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350: A Masterpiece Wrapped in Sheet Metal and Leather

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 isn’t just a car. It’s an experience—a rollercoaster of power, luxury, and “look-at-me” swagger. It’s the automotive equivalent of showing up to a fancy gala in a tuxedo made of 100-dollar bills. When you step into this vehicle, you're not just a driver; you're a maestro conducting an orchestra of engines, leather, and the occasional envious glance from onlookers. So, buckle up (in the finest leather, of course) as we take you through the ins and outs of this stunning piece of German engineering, and throw in some laughs along the way.

The Design: Because Who Needs Subtlety?

Let’s be real: the CLS 350 doesn’t enter a room, it commands a room. You don’t just park it, you unveil it. Its long, sweeping coupe lines make every other sedan in the vicinity look like it’s just been invited to the party, while the CLS has already been there, stolen the show, and is casually sipping on a glass of champagne. Mercedes’ design team was like, “Let’s take a sedan and make it feel like a luxury yacht that you can drive on the streets.”

The front end features the iconic, unmistakable Mercedes-Benz grille, flanked by sharp, angular LED headlights that say, “Yes, I’m awake and I’m ready to impress.” The coupe-inspired roofline is sloped just enough to give you that sporty edge without sacrificing practicality (unless you’re attempting to fold your basketball team into the back seat—then, good luck). It’s a design that manages to be both sophisticated and slightly aggressive, like a James Bond villain who moonlights as an interior designer.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to blend in, this car is not for you. You’ll find yourself constantly checking for cameras because, with this car, you're basically the main character in a movie that everyone is watching.

Under the Hood: A Symphony of Power

Let’s talk about the heart of the beast: the engine. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine with mild-hybrid technology. It produces 299 horsepower and 400Nm of torque. Now, before you start thinking, “Oh, that sounds nice, but is it enough?” let’s take a moment. This engine doesn’t need to shout. It just purrs, and when you press the gas pedal, it lets loose like a lion after a 10-year nap. It’s not the roaring, fire-breathing dragon of the AMG models, but it’s like the cool, collected older sibling who still knows how to throw a punch when needed.

In terms of acceleration, you’re looking at a 0-60mph time of about 5.1 seconds. That’s fast enough to make you feel like you’ve been launched into another dimension, but not so fast that you need to make a doctor’s appointment afterward. It’s the sweet spot. You know, like that perfect balance of caffeine where you’re awake, but not shaking.

And let’s talk about that 9-speed automatic transmission. This is smoothness personified. Each shift is like a gentle caress, as if the transmission is whispering, “I’ve got you, buddy. Don’t worry, we’ve got places to be.” The ride is so composed, it’s like driving on clouds—if those clouds were somehow made of precision engineering and German engineering excellence.

Inside the Cabin: The Lap of Luxury (But With Fun)

Okay, now let’s talk about the interior. Imagine being wrapped in the finest leather while someone serenades you with Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, except it’s not a concert hall, it’s your car, and the orchestra is actually your car’s luxurious features.

The cabin of the CLS 350 is a modern-day throne room. The seats are wrapped in Nappa leather, which sounds fancy because it is. They’re so comfortable you’ll wonder if Mercedes-Benz has somehow figured out how to create the perfect chair for every human ever. Seriously, if you could sleep in this car, you would—don’t act like you wouldn’t.

And don’t even get us started on the tech. The CLS 350 comes with a dual 12.3-inch screen setup: one for the infotainment system and another as a digital instrument cluster. It’s like a spaceship cockpit, but without the terrifying space travel part. The MBUX system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is as intuitive as it is flashy. It’s voice-activated, so you can say, “Hey Mercedes, play some tunes” and the car will do exactly that, as if it has been waiting for you to tell it what to do all along.

The ambient lighting system can be customized to 64 different colors. That’s right—64. You could essentially make your car look like a rave. Who says luxury can’t have a bit of fun, right? Whether you want a calm, soothing blue to unwind after a long day or a fiery red to feel like you’re about to take on the Autobahn, the CLS 350 has you covered.

Quick Side Note: If you find yourself staring at the glowing lights and adjusting the settings for hours, it’s okay. We’ve all been there. It’s part of the luxury experience.

Driving Dynamics: It Handles Like a Dream (But You’re Waking Up, Don’t Worry)

Now, let’s get to the fun stuff: driving. The 2019 CLS 350 is a well-balanced blend of comfort and sportiness. You’re not going to win any drag races, but you’ll get a good chuckle while you effortlessly leave lesser sedans in the dust. The steering is sharp but not overly sensitive, meaning you can cruise down the highway with ease and corner like a pro without feeling like you’re fighting the car. It’s a dance partner that knows when to lead and when to follow.

The suspension is adaptive, so the car adjusts based on road conditions. On smooth roads, it glides with the grace of a ballerina; on rougher surfaces, it firms up just enough to keep things under control. If you’re a car enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the fact that this car knows when to relax and when to put in the work.

But let’s talk about the sound. The exhaust is quiet when you’re cruising, but give it a bit of throttle, and it lets out a satisfying growl. Not obnoxious, just a reminder that this car means business. It’s like the car is saying, “I’m sophisticated, but I can still throw down when needed.”

The Technology: So Much Tech, You Might Need a Degree to Use It

The 2019 CLS 350 comes with a range of cutting-edge features that will make you feel like you’ve time-traveled into the future. The MBUX system is not just a voice assistant, but also an intelligent system that learns your preferences. It’s like having a personal butler who’s always one step ahead of you—without the fancy accent.

The car is also equipped with advanced driver-assistance features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and active brake assist. So, in case you’re a little too distracted by the in-car ambient lighting or just being fabulous, the CLS 350 will gently remind you to keep your focus on the road. Think of it as your driving buddy who’s got your back in case you get too distracted by, say, a particularly catchy song on the radio.

Let’s not forget about the 360-degree camera system. When parking this beauty, you’ll feel like you’re playing a high-stakes game of Tetris, but the cameras make it easier than ever. You’ll slide into tight spots like you’re sliding into a DMs—smooth, controlled, and with a sense of accomplishment.

Wheels and Brakes: Where Performance Meets Elegance (And Grip)

Ah, the wheels and brakes—the unsung heroes of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350. You know, the ones that are constantly doing all the hard work, but somehow never get the spotlight. Well, it’s time to change that. These components are more than just functional; they’re an essential part of the car’s design, performance, and that extra bit of swagger that lets you glide through life like you're in a luxury car commercial.

The Wheels: Aesthetic and Performance in Perfect Harmony

First things first, the wheels on the 2019 CLS 350 are nothing short of stunning. Mercedes-Benz didn’t just slap some round rubber on the car and call it a day. No, no, no. These wheels are carefully crafted to serve both aesthetic and performance purposes—because, let’s face it, this car wouldn’t be caught dead in a set of generic rims. These are wheels that demand attention, without having to shout about it.

Standard on the CLS 350 are 18-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels that add a sophisticated touch to the car’s exterior. But don’t be fooled by their beauty—they’re designed to perform just as well as they look. These wheels provide excellent traction, especially on dry roads, ensuring that you have all the grip you need to feel confident when carving corners or punching the accelerator. The multi-spoke design isn’t just for show, either. The open spaces between the spokes help with air circulation, which can improve the overall performance of the brakes, keeping them cooler and more efficient during heavy use.

But, if you’re someone who likes to go the extra mile (in terms of style), you can opt for the available 19-inch wheels. They make a bold statement, adding even more visual impact to the already stunning profile of the CLS 350. The larger wheels create a more aggressive stance, turning heads as you roll through the streets with the grace of a swan and the presence of a lion. Seriously, these wheels are designed to look like they belong in a high-end fashion magazine, and honestly, they probably should be.

The Tires: You Can’t Have Great Wheels Without Great Rubber

And let’s not forget about the rubber meeting the road. The CLS 350 comes equipped with performance-oriented tires that are designed to provide the ideal balance of comfort and grip. The tires are crafted with a tread pattern that excels in both wet and dry conditions, so you can confidently take on a rainy day or burn some rubber on dry tarmac without breaking a sweat. They're grippy, but not overly aggressive. They’re like that one friend who can casually pull off the most fashionable outfits without even trying.

These tires also provide a comfortable ride, meaning that the CLS 350 doesn’t just handle like a sports car, it rides like a luxury vehicle. So, while the wheels might make you feel like you could take on a racetrack, the tires ensure you can still enjoy that luxury experience on your daily commute.

The Brakes: Stopping Power That Matches the CLS’s Swagger

Now, onto the brakes—the ultimate balancing act of performance and safety. The brakes on the 2019 CLS 350 are designed to offer top-tier stopping power, and let’s just say they don’t disappoint. With large, ventilated disc brakes on all four corners, the CLS 350 is more than capable of bringing its considerable weight to a halt, whether you're on a winding mountain road or trying to avoid that one driver who insists on tailgating you while you're simply trying to enjoy the ride.

The brake system on the CLS 350 is a perfect complement to the car’s performance capabilities. The braking feel is firm and responsive, giving you confidence every time you press the pedal. There’s no mushy sensation here—when you apply pressure, the brakes respond immediately, providing you with the stopping power you need. This isn’t just any “stop the car before you hit something” type of braking; this is a precise, calculated system that helps you feel in control at all times.

And here’s the thing: with great performance comes the potential for brake fade (when the brakes lose their effectiveness due to heat buildup). But don’t worry! Mercedes-Benz has thought of that. The CLS 350 is equipped with ventilated brake discs that help dissipate heat, so you can go ahead and press on the pedal a little harder without worrying about the brakes turning into a soggy noodle

Safety: Because Who Doesn’t Want to Feel Invincible?

Mercedes-Benz doesn’t just make luxury cars—they make cars that make you feel invincible. The 2019 CLS 350 is no exception, boasting a range of safety features that make it feel like you’re wrapped in a cocoon of protection. From the advanced driver-assist systems to the car’s rigid body structure, the CLS 350 is as safe as it is stylish. So, you can confidently zip through traffic, knowing that this car has your back, front, and sides covered.

It’s the kind of car that lets you channel your inner action hero. Not only are you looking good doing it, but you’re doing it with safety in mind. Who knew saving the day could be so comfortable?

Final Thoughts: A Car That Laughs in the Face of Ordinary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 isn’t just another car on the road. It’s a bold statement. It’s for those who understand that driving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about the journey, the thrill, and the undeniable satisfaction of owning something exceptional.

It’s got the looks, the power, the luxury, and just enough tech to make you feel like a wizard. And let’s face it: when you’re in the CLS 350, you’ll probably feel like one too. So, whether you’re cruising through city streets, taking a long road trip, or just enjoying the fact that you’re in the car that everyone else wishes they were in, one thing is certain: driving a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 is nothing short of an event.

Is it practical? Eh, not really. Is it fun? Absolutely. But isn’t that the point?