“This car has incredible handling and energy. The styling and technology is impressive.”
2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS is a true carryover with no major changes after its 2019 redesign. Its styling, powertrain, safety features, and cabin technology remain essentially the same.
About the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS
3rd generation (C257), second U.S. model year after the 2019 redesign
Mercedes-Benz positions the CLS as the original modern four-door coupe: a style-led luxury car that puts sleek design, craftsmanship, and a graceful driving feel ahead of maximum practicality. It sits between the more conventional E-Class and the larger, more formal S-Class in spirit, offering a dramatic roofline, rich cabin materials, and smooth six-cylinder power for buyers who want their daily driver to feel more special and more design-focused than a typical midsize luxury sedan.
Mercedes positioned the CLS 450 as an elegant, style-focused four-door coupe with a sweeping roofline and a smooth turbocharged inline-6 supported by mild-hybrid assist. Both versions have leather upholstery, heated front seats, navigation, a 12.3-inch center display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and several driver-assistance features. The CLS 450 has rear-wheel drive, while the CLS 450 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive for better traction on slippery roads.
2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 362 hp | 362 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 11.9 cu-ft | 11.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 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
What changed on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS compared with the 2019 model?
Nothing significant changed for 2020. The CLS carried over its body design, turbocharged inline-6 with mild-hybrid assist, safety equipment, and infotainment technology from the redesigned 2019 model.
Was the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS redesigned?
No, the 2020 CLS was not redesigned. It was the second U.S. model year of the third-generation CLS introduced for 2019.
Did the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS get a new engine?
No, the engine did not change for 2020. The CLS 450 retained its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 with EQ Boost mild-hybrid assist and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
What is the difference between the 2020 CLS 450 and CLS 450 4MATIC?
The main difference is the drivetrain. The CLS 450 has rear-wheel drive, while the CLS 450 4MATIC has all-wheel drive for added traction in poor weather and on slippery roads.
Does the 2020 CLS offer a meaningful update over the 2019 model?
No, the 2020 CLS does not offer a meaningful product update over the 2019 model. Both belong to the same generation and share the same core styling, powertrain, safety features, and cabin technology.
2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
4.2
2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS
(50 reviews)
“The safety features are irreplaceable. The vehicle has the necessary safety features. The vehicle is extremely comfortable and has a smooth ride and driving capability.”
“It is a fun car to own and drive. If you are tall like me (6'5"), it should not be considered as your primary car. I bought the car for my wife who is 5'2" and fits her perfectly. So, if you are a normally proportioned person, it is an excellent car provided you have the finances to acquire and maintain.”