In reality, the test car that I had on the road came close to that figure. That impressed me but I have to admit that driving the CLS 350 is so smooth that there is rarely a need to push the power hard, it just seems to be waiting on tap all of the time. It kicks in effortlessly and that helps with relative economy.

The CLS-Class has also introduced the new Adaptive Brake System which gives hold and hill-start functions, while in emergency conditions the Adaptive Brake Lights flash to warn following drivers to apply maximum braking force. Also now standard across the range is what Mercedes Benz call PRE-SAFE which closes the electric windows and the sunroof, electrically pre-tensions the safety belts and moves the front passenger seat into an optimal position (where fully electric memory front seats are specified) if it recognises potentially dangerous situations.

Other standard features in the six-cylinder coupe include automatic climate control with digital display, a stereo radio, speed-sensitive Parameter power-assisted steering, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, two-stage rain-sensing windscreen wipers, 17-inch light-alloy wheels and 245/45 R 17 wide-base tyres. Couple this with the leather interior and the luxury feel surrounds you.

The dash layout is almost cockpit style. This is most especially impressive at night driving when the dash is fully lighted. The timber effect wrap around design is subtle with a feeling of opulence.

Mercedes Benz has certainly got the design right and the seating comfort and position is better than with most other coupes that I’ve driven. Seat adjustment is good and the leather upholstery gives a solid feel to the seat, which have full electric adjustment.

Given that the car has a list price of over €85,000 I’m surprised that you have to pay almost €3,500 more a sat-nav system. Surely this should a standard feature of most high end cars and built into the high end price. And that extra sat-nav price seems exorbitant when you can buy a Garmin kit for about €300.

Let there be no mistake about it the Mercedes Benz CLS Class is an impressive range of cars. The six cylinder engine is a treat and the styling and fittings are high end and luxury. But it’s the CLS styling that makes the mark; this is a car that stands out from the crowd in the high end sector, it’s a comfort to drive in style at the Mercedes Benz price.

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