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2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS gets a meaningful technology update rather than a redesign. Its main change is standard MBUX infotainment and a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument display across the lineup.
About the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS
3rd gen (C257, 2019-2023), third model year; last pre-facelift year before the 2022 refresh.
Mercedes-Benz positions the CLS as the style-led alternative to a traditional midsize luxury sedan: the original “four-door coupe,” with a lower roof, sleeker profile and a more dramatic cabin atmosphere than a regular E-Class. Its appeal is not maximum practicality. It is for shoppers who want smooth six-cylinder power, upscale comfort and standout design in a car that still works as an everyday luxury sedan.
The CLS 450 is the relaxed, rear-wheel-drive version of Mercedes-Benz’s sleek four-door coupe, while the CLS 450 4MATIC adds all-wheel-drive traction. Both use a turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assistance and feature dual 12.3-inch displays, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heated power front seats, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
What changed, by category
Tech
MBUX infotainment became standard, bringing touchscreen operation, a voice assistant and touch controls. A 12.3-inch digital instrument display also became standard on every CLS.
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter w/EQ Boost | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter w/EQ Boost |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30 mpg | 29 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 | ||
| 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS?
The main change for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS is its standard MBUX infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital instrument display. The powertrain, body design and basic lineup otherwise carry over.
Was the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS redesigned?
No, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS was not redesigned. It remained part of the third generation introduced for 2019 and was the final model year before the subtle 2022 exterior refresh.
How does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS compare with the 2020 model?
The 2021 CLS has a more modern standard cabin interface than the 2020 model, thanks to MBUX infotainment and a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Its engines and overall styling are largely unchanged.
Did the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS get a new engine?
No, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS did not get a new engine. The CLS 450 models retain the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assistance and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Does every 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS have all-wheel drive?
No, not every 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS has all-wheel drive. The CLS 450 is rear-wheel drive, while the CLS 450 4MATIC uses all-wheel drive.
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
4.3
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS
(42 reviews)
“It's a nice car, but make sure ALL features you seek are included-like the chip to utilize the app for the vehicle.”
“My CLS 450 is awesome. It drives super smooth and has an awesome sound system. It's also just beautiful to look at.”