The Mercedes-Benz CLS is an executive size sedan that combines the "strong, emotive charisma" of a coupe with the "comfort and practicality" of a saloon according to Mercedez-Benz. The CLS class used the W211 E-Class platform. The Mercedes-Benz CLS is a 'four door coupe,' that used a sleek roofline to reduces the rear passenger room to a 2+2 arrangement. The Mercedes-Benz CLS used very few engine options when compared to other models like the E-Class.
The CLS was used by Mercedes-Benz's to announce its return to the executive size coupe market. The first generation of the CLS, was called the Mercedes-Benz C219. The CLS-class was first introduced as a concept car for the 2003 Frankfurt International Motor Show and used the name of Vision CLS concept. In 2004, the CLS class car was introduced at the New York International Auto Show. The CLS class used advanced technology and many parts were modified to provide good safety. Front airbags, side impact airbags, side curtain airbags, "smart" sensor system for the seatbelts and airbag parts were also used.