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2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS is a smaller lineup: the CLS 400, CLS 400 4MATIC, and CLS 63 AMG S 4MATIC are dropped, leaving two CLS 550 models. Otherwise, this is a light late-cycle update highlighted by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
About the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS
2nd generation CLS (C218, 2012-2018), late-cycle year before the 2018 final year and 2019 redesign.
Mercedes positions the CLS as a style-first luxury four-door that blends coupe looks with real front-seat comfort and strong straight-line power. The core appeal is not maximum back-seat space or practicality; it is the low roofline, frameless glass, four individual seats, and a more dramatic design than a conventional midsize luxury sedan. Against rivals, the CLS leans on its fashion-forward shape, rich cabin, and effortless turbocharged performance.
The 2017 CLS is centered on the V8-powered CLS 550, a sleek four-seat luxury cruiser with rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Both versions have a 402-hp twin-turbo V8, a nine-speed automatic, self-leveling air suspension, leather upholstery, navigation, and Harman Kardon surround sound.
What changed, by category
Powertrain and lineup
The CLS 400, CLS 400 4MATIC, and CLS 63 AMG S 4MATIC trims are dropped. The remaining CLS 550 and CLS 550 4MATIC retain their 402-hp twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 and nine-speed automatic.
Tech
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration are added to the CLS 550 and CLS 550 4MATIC.
2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.7 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 9-Spd Driver Adptv | Auto, 9-Spd Driver Adptv |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 402 hp | 402 hp |
| Torque | 443 lb-ft | 443 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 11 cu-ft | 11 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS a redesigned model?
No. The 2017 CLS is a light late-cycle update within the second generation, with no major exterior, chassis, or suspension redesign.
Which Mercedes-Benz CLS trims were dropped for 2017?
The CLS 400, CLS 400 4MATIC, and CLS 63 AMG S 4MATIC were dropped for 2017. The lineup consists of the rear-wheel-drive CLS 550 and all-wheel-drive CLS 550 4MATIC.
Does the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were added to the 2017 CLS 550 and CLS 550 4MATIC as the year’s main technology update.
Did the CLS 550 engine change for 2017?
No. The CLS 550 models retain the 402-hp twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 and nine-speed automatic transmission.
What is the difference between the 2017 CLS 550 and CLS 550 4MATIC?
The main difference is traction: the CLS 550 has rear-wheel drive, while the CLS 550 4MATIC has all-wheel drive. Both use the same 402-hp V8, nine-speed automatic, and self-leveling air suspension.
2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
4.4
2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS
(36 reviews)
“CLS 550 4Matic is the epitome of "The Best, or Nothing"! There is no other automobile on the road that comes close.”
“I do like my Mercedes. This is my 6th. I'm sorry to see more plastic. They have improved the heat/air systems. I do not like the new energy system, when you stop the engine stops and starts on it's own. I liked the console gear shift better, It's very odd they changed that .. I think the leather interior is not the quality it was in past models. But for what it's worth, I will stick with my car of choice.”