Mercedes CLS-Class saloon: good looks and practicality

Price: £46,500 - £86,500

Pros: Head turning looks, strong performance, beautifully built

Cons: Optional extras are expensive, no five-seat option, limited rear visibility

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3.6/5, Carbuyer "When the Mercedes CLS was launched, it was one of the first four-door coupes on sale, offering all the best parts of the Mercedes E-Class saloon combined with a more attractive body and sportier driving characteristics. Now the CLS has plenty of rivals including the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, the Audi A7 Sportback, and even the much cheaper Volkswagen CC. The latest version of the CLS sports a bolder design than before. It's still available with a great range of engines, though – there's a choice of two diesels and two petrols, as well as the option of four-wheel drive. The CLS 350 BlueTEC diesel is our pick of the range thanks to its mix of strong performance and low running costs, while the range-topping petrol CLS 63 AMG is extremely quick. All models are fun to drive and comfortable over long distances.There are three trim levels: the AMG Line diesels, the AMG Line CLS 400 petrol and the top-spec CLS 63 AMG. There are also Premium and Premium Plus option packs that add various luxuries to the list of standard equipment, plus an extensive and expensive list of individual options. All models get a leather interior, sat-nav and a digital radio, but we’d also recommend the optional air suspension, which lets you choose between a comfortable or sporty ride."

4/5, Auto Express "The latest model adds sharper driving dynamics and efficient new diesel and petrol engines to its list of desirable attributes. All versions are well-equipped, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be able to avoid the expensive options list."

4/5, What Car? "The Mercedes CLS is a super-stylish executive saloon that's good to drive and capable of whisking four people and their luggage around quickly and quietly."

4.5/5, Parkers "Four new engines are available and there is a clever new electric steering system to enhance driver enjoyment. From its good looks to its stylish interior, the CLS oozes class. Rival German manufacturer Audi has recently launched the A7 to compete with the CLS, but is the Merc a better buy?"