“Don't like the pull-out drawers for storage under the driver's seat. Cumbersome and in the way”
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS is the AMG lineup’s move to standard all-wheel drive, capped by a new 577-hp CLS 63 AMG S. This is not a redesign, but it is a meaningful performance and equipment update.
About the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS
2nd generation CLS (C218, 2012-2018 U.S. range), last pre-refresh year before the 2015 styling and tech update.
Mercedes-Benz positioned the CLS as the original four-door coupe: a low-roof luxury car that mixes the style and intimacy of a coupe with the everyday usefulness of four doors. Its core appeal is emotional design, strong V8 performance, and a richly finished four-seat cabin. Versus more traditional luxury sedans, the CLS is less about maximum rear-seat practicality and more about giving the driver and passengers a dramatic, grand-touring experience.
The CLS 550 is the luxury-focused core model, pairing a 402-hp twin-turbo V8 with air suspension, navigation, leather, and heated front seats. The AMG models emphasize performance, while the new CLS 63 AMG S sits at the top with 577 hp, all-wheel drive, a limited-slip differential, and a more driver-focused cabin.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Engine stop-start becomes standard across the lineup. The CLS 63 AMG moves from rear-wheel drive to standard AMG Performance all-wheel drive and rises to 550 hp, while the new CLS 63 AMG S arrives with 577 hp.
Styling
A rear spoiler changes from optional to standard across the lineup.
Tech
Heated front seats change from optional to standard across the lineup.
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.6L | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.6L | V8, Twin Turbo, 5.5L | V8, Twin Turbo, 5.5L |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd | Automatic, 7-Spd | Auto 7Spd SPEEDSHIFT MCT | Auto 7Spd SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 24 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 402 hp | 402 hp | 550 hp | 577 hp |
| Torque | 443 lb-ft | 443 lb-ft | 531 lb-ft | 590 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.3 cu-ft | 15.3 cu-ft | 15.3 cu-ft | 15.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| 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 | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS a redesign?
No. The 2014 CLS remains part of the second generation introduced for 2012, with no major body, cabin, or infotainment redesign. The broader styling and technology refresh follows for 2015.
What changed on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG?
The 2014 CLS 63 AMG gains standard AMG Performance all-wheel drive and increases output to 550 hp. Its name changes from CLS 63 AMG to CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC to reflect the new drivetrain.
What is new about the 2014 CLS 63 AMG S?
The CLS 63 AMG S is a new top-performance trim for 2014. It has a 577-hp twin-turbo V8, all-wheel drive, a limited-slip differential, an adaptive AMG sport suspension, and a performance steering wheel with suedelike grips.
What became standard on every 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Engine stop-start, heated front seats, and a rear spoiler become standard across the 2014 CLS lineup. The stop-start system shuts off the engine while the car is stopped to reduce fuel use at idle.
Is the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS meaningfully different from the 2013 model?
Yes, especially in AMG form. The 2014 AMG gains standard all-wheel drive and more power, and the 577-hp AMG S joins the range; shoppers focused on the CLS 550 will find a lighter update centered on added standard equipment rather than a redesign.
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
4.3
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS
(7 reviews)
“The premium package should include folding side mirrors, blind spot assist and front and rear parking sensors. Competing automobiles at this price point include these features.”
“I have owned over two hundred vehicles and this Mercedes CLS 550 4matic is simply the best car I have ever owned. Power, performance, style, and comfort all in one package!”