2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450: Fast and fashionable

The new CLS is without question a looker with a steeply raked roofline, but the rest of the sheetmetal is cleaner and more mature than its predecessor. 

The only weak point to the outside design is the rear end that looks soft compared to the sharp front mug. 

Like most of the exterior, the interior of the CLS is gorgeous two tones of stitched brown leather and open pore wood trim. 

Quality levels inside are truly impressive with even the door panel pockets lined with fabric. 

The front seats feature deep bolstering and heated massage functions to make them the best seats in the house.

Handling infotainment inside the CLS is the latest iteration of the COMAND system that's responsive and intuitive to operate. 

COMAND controls a 25-speaker Burmester audio setup, navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot and is capable of running both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Powering the CLS450 is a mild hybrid drivetrain consisting of a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine making 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

The engine combines with a 48-volt alternator and electric motor that provides an additional 21 horses and 184 pound-feet that helps get the car moving off the line and power accessories when stopped. 

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 starts at $70,195, including $995 for destination. Getting one equipped with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system bumps the base price to $72,695.

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