Well, I have been spending some time in one that truly does have the magic. But you have to pay for it. The new generation CLS 350 CDI is for those very fortunate few of Ireland's rich still outside NAMA.
CLS changed the perception of Mercedes-Benz from the time the first 'Vision' concept of the car hit the motor shows in 2003. A brand new theme of large 4-door luxury coupes was eventually followed by other prestige makers after the production car rolled out and now both BMW and Audi have comparable competitors.
The latest car reflects a shift to a more muscular attitude from the designers at M-B. But without losing anything of the svelte look in which the original's lines shone. Stronger profile sculpting, and pronounced wheel arches are some of the detail changes. Lights, grille and rear redesigns all add to these to offer a car with a presence which doesn't try to hide.
Inside, the CLS provides a quite different feel from the original car. Again the style and design cues are more masculine, with round replacing the ellipsoidal elements of the first generation. Stronger trim elements add to the overall assertive ethos. The review car had the full leather option which means both a luxurious look and feel along with good wearing ability. In accommodation terms, the rear seats are for two people only, but for two in absolute comfort. The company makes a strong point about the boot being able to hold four full-sized golf bags.
There's a lot of technology underneath all the glitz and luxury. Safety is as good as is possible today, with an emphasis on avoiding trouble to the fore. If all that fails, the CLS has all the interior and technological protections to bring the occupants out of any major impact.
The car has also continued the relentless march to even more efficiency, and the BlueEfficiency tag to the model name indicates the CLS is in the top levels in this regard. A 6L/100km from this 3.0 diesel is pretty stunning, and though rated D for road tax, it is only a few grammes of CO2 into that level.
Switching on gives an immediate taste of what this powerplant is like, with not a trace of diesel clatter or, indeed, hardly any sound at all at idle. Shifting into the 7-speed automatic and you've begun a process of acceleration so smooth that you don't notice it is of sports car ability. There are 261hp under the hood, giving the ability to reach 100km/h in just 6.2 seconds. Torque is awesome, with the max coming in a just 1,600rpm. But absolutely controlled.
This is indeed a powerful car, but it is also agile. The steering is direct, the ride has just the right amount of edge to deal with both sweeping and tight turns. All in all, it is one of those cars that you will take every excuse to drive. Especially with the relative economy for the performance it can give.
CLS prices start at €65,750 for the CLS 250 CDI, and the 350 CDI begins at €71,700. The review car rolls out of the showroom at €89,000. Magic costs.
