2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is a true carryover with no major changes. It repeats the three-trim lineup and core formula introduced with the full 2012 redesign.
About the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS
2nd generation (C218, 2012-2018 in the U.S. market), second model year before the later mid-cycle refresh.
Mercedes-Benz positioned the CLS as the original four-door coupe: a luxury car chosen as much for its shape and presence as for traditional sedan usefulness. In 2013, the CLS sells on a mix of sweeping coupe-like styling, strong V8 performance, a rich four-seat cabin, and advanced safety engineering. Compared with more conventional luxury sedans, it gives up some rear-seat practicality in exchange for a more dramatic look and a more personal, driver-focused feel.
The CLS 550 pairs a 402-hp twin-turbo V8 with a comfort-focused air suspension, navigation, and a 14-speaker harman/kardon audio system. The CLS 550 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive, while the CLS 63 AMG brings a handcrafted 518-hp twin-turbo V8, sharper suspension tuning, and selectable driving modes.
2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.6L | V8, Twin Turbo, 5.5L | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.6L |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd | Auto, 7-Spd Manual Mode | Automatic, 7-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 402 hp | 518 hp | 402 hp |
| Torque | 443 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft | 443 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.3 cu-ft | 15.3 cu-ft | 15.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Nothing significant changed for 2013. The engines, three-trim lineup, chassis setups, exterior design, safety equipment, and core technology carried over from 2012.
Was the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS redesigned?
No, the 2013 CLS was not redesigned. It was the second model year of the second-generation CLS introduced for 2012, before the later mid-cycle update.
Which trims did the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS have?
The 2013 CLS lineup consisted of the rear-wheel-drive CLS 550, the all-wheel-drive CLS 550 4MATIC, and the rear-wheel-drive CLS 63 AMG.
How did the 2013 CLS 550 differ from the CLS 550 4MATIC?
The main difference was the drive system. The CLS 550 used rear-wheel drive, while the CLS 550 4MATIC added all-wheel drive; both had a 402-hp 4.6-liter twin-turbo V8 and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Did the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS get a new engine?
No, the 2013 CLS did not get a new engine. The CLS 550 models retained their 402-hp 4.6-liter twin-turbo V8, and the CLS 63 AMG retained its handcrafted 518-hp 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8.