# Mercedes CLS — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Mercedes CLS on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mercedes-cls

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2019
- **Ideal trim**: CLS 300d AMG Line
- **Target mileage**: 60,000–80,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 3
- **Target price**: £25,000

## Why this model

The Mercedes CLS is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a stylish, comfortable, and relatively practical executive car that stands out from the crowd. It offers a blend of coupé-like aesthetics with four-door practicality, making it a great compromise. The diesel engines, especially the 300d, are surprisingly economical for a car of this size, offering a good balance of performance and running costs. It's a solid choice for long-distance cruising, providing a refined and luxurious experience.

## What you should pay

For a 2019 Mercedes CLS 300d AMG Line with around 60,000-80,000 miles, you should be aiming for a price in the mid-£20,000s. Prices have softened for luxury diesels, making this a great time to pick one up. Be prepared to negotiate, especially if the car has been on the forecourt for a while. The market for these cars is less buoyant than for SUVs or smaller hatchbacks, giving buyers more leverage.

## Which trim to buy

The CLS 300d AMG Line is the sweet spot. The 300d engine provides plenty of power for daily driving and motorway cruising while being the most economical diesel option. The AMG Line trim is highly desirable, adding sporty styling, larger alloy wheels, and a more luxurious interior with features like upgraded seats and infotainment. It significantly enhances the car's aesthetic appeal and resale value without pushing the running costs too high like the more powerful 400d or petrol variants. It's the trim most buyers look for on the used market.

## What to check before you buy

- Air suspension problems (leaks, compressor failure) if equipped
- Infotainment system glitches or slow response
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues if primarily used for short journeys
- Minor electrical gremlins (sensors, warning lights)
- Wear and tear on interior trim, especially on higher mileage examples

## Running costs

Running a CLS 300d involves a few key costs. Fuel will be around 10-12p per mile, assuming diesel at £1.50/litre and 45mpg. Road tax (VED) for a 2019 diesel will be around £180-£200 annually. Insurance can be quite high, typically ranging from £800 to £1500+ per year depending on your personal circumstances. Servicing costs will be higher than a mainstream car, so factor in around £400-£800 per year for routine maintenance, plus potential for larger bills if complex components like the air suspension need attention.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Diesel
- **Horsepower**: 245 hp
- **Mpg**: 45-50 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Mercedes generally offer good build quality, but complex electronics and air suspension (if fitted) can lead to higher repair costs as they age. Expect average reliability for a luxury car.
- **Safety Rating**: 5 stars (Euro NCAP 2018 for C257 generation)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| CLS 300d AMG Line | £57,000 | £25,000 | 19-inch AMG alloy wheels; AMG bodystyling; Leather upholstery |
| CLS 300d AMG Line Premium Plus | £62,000 | £27,000 | 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels; Multibeam LED headlights; Burmester surround sound system |
| CLS 400d AMG Line | £65,000 | £29,000 | More powerful 3.0L inline-six diesel engine (340 hp); AMG bodystyling; 19-inch AMG alloy wheels |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £25,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £22,500 | 90% |
| 2028 | £20,000 | 80% |
| 2029 | £18,000 | 72% |
| 2030 | £16,500 | 66% |

The CLS, being a luxury saloon, experiences significant depreciation in its early years. By 2026, a 2019 model will have absorbed the steepest part of its depreciation curve, making it a much more affordable purchase. While it will continue to lose value, the rate of loss will slow down considerably. The sweet spot for buying is around 5-7 years old, as you get a lot of car for your money, and the initial massive value drop has already occurred. However, be mindful of potential maintenance costs as it ages.

Total value lost since new: 34%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Audi A7 Sportback
- BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe
- Porsche Panamera (older generation)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.