News: 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS Adds 48-Volt System

This Is Electrification, Get Used To It

Mercedes has introduced its style flagship, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS to the media prior to its arrival in dealerships this fall. The sleek four-door coupe marks the move by Daimler, Mercedes parent, into electrification. The CLS features a 48-volt start-stop system that has allowed the model to boast a powerful engine while also improving fuel economy.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS is estimated to start around the same territory as last years model, i.e., $75,000, but can quickly add $10,000 or more with safety and entertainment tech options. Rear-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive as an option.

Powering the CLS for 2019 is a turbocharged, direct-injection 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engines with an integrated starter/generator, 48-volt system and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The engine, along with the electric drive motors that are part of the system will deliver 383 total horsepower at 5,500-6,100 rpm, and a massive 553 pounds-feet of torque at much lower rpm. The combo is capable of moving this relatively heavy car from 0-to-60 in 5.1 seconds. Mercedes has labeled it an EQ Boost, tying it to the coming variety of electrified models coming from the company.

Full Safety House

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS has a long list of standard and optional advanced safety and convenience features, including collision prevention, Attention Assist to alert you when you’re drowsy, Distronic adaptive cruise control, steering assist, speed limit assist, route-based speed adaptation, blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, emergency stop assist and lane change assist.

Its a low-volume model designed to be noticed and cheat the wind as it moves. The expectation is that when the official EPA fuel economy numbers are released, the CLS may push highway mpg into the mid-20s. Expect to see more manufacturers from Europe following Mercedes lead and using a 48-volt integrated starter-generator to either push up fuel economy or offer more power with the same mpg.

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