Mercedes CLS Estate Vs BMW 5 Series Touring: 1,670L Boot Edge

The Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake and BMW 5 Series Touring represent the pinnacle of premium estates, blending sporty coupe-like styling with family-friendly practicality. This comparison dives deep into their dimensions, boot space, powertrains, cabin quality, tech features, and on-road prowess to determine which vehicle better suits discerning buyers seeking elegance and utility.

Design and Exterior Dimensions: Style vs Substance

Mercedes has long pioneered the ‘four-door coupe’ aesthetic, and the CLS Shooting Brake extends this to wagon form with its sleek, fastback roofline that prioritizes visual drama over outright boxiness. Measuring around 4,977mm in length, it boasts a lower stance and aggressive lines that turn heads, but this comes at the cost of headroom and cargo versatility.

In contrast, the BMW 5 Series Touring adopts a more traditional estate silhouette. At 4,907mm long with a longer 2,968mm wheelbase—94mm more than the CLS—it offers a taller profile for better passenger accommodation. This conventional shape enhances everyday usability without sacrificing premium appeal.

The BMW’s design feels more purposeful for load-lugging, while the Mercedes captivates with its sculptural beauty.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Passengers and Gear

Step inside the CLS, and you’re enveloped in opulent materials—think soft leather, ambient lighting, and metallic accents that scream luxury. However, the sloping roofline crimps rear headroom, making it less ideal for taller adults on long trips. Front seats are plush and adjustable, but the overall cabin prioritizes style over outright volume.

The BMW 5 Series counters with a more generous rear cabin. Its extended wheelbase translates to ample legroom and headroom for all occupants, accommodating diverse body types comfortably. The 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats add flexibility, allowing long items with four passengers aboard. Unique touches like a separate glass tailgate hatch maximize access for smaller loads.

• BMW advantages: Superior rear space, versatile seating, 1,670-litre max boot capacity.
• Mercedes strengths: Premium finishes, stylish layout.

Boot volumes reflect this: BMW edges ahead in practicality despite not being class-leading.

Cargo Capacity Breakdown

Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake offers a stylish cargo area with a low load lip, but the tapered roof reduces maximum capacity compared to boxier rivals. It’s sufficient for weekend getaways or golf bags, aided by folding seats.

BMW 5 Series Touring shines here, with up to 1,670 litres roof-up and practical features enhancing daily use. The shopping hatch is a game-changer for quick grocery runs.

Performance and Powertrains: Diesel Dynamics Duel

Both models feature potent diesel engines suited to long-haul cruising. The Mercedes CLS 350 CDI delivers smooth torque with 4MATIC all-wheel drive for traction, paired with a seven-speed automatic. It’s refined but can feel heavier on twisty roads.

BMW’s 535d M Sport Touring packs a 3.0-litre diesel with 313hp, channeling power through rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed ZF gearbox. Lighter by 70kg, it surges ahead in acceleration, with shifts that are noticeably quicker and silkier. Optional adaptive dampers (£985) sharpen handling further.

BMW’s Drive Performance Control modes—from ECO PRO for sipping fuel to Sport+ for track-like responsiveness—offer versatility the Mercedes lacks in standard form.

• 0-62mph: BMW quicker overall.
• Gearbox: BMW’s eight-speed superior.
• Weight: BMW lighter for agility.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Efficiency favors the BMW, achieving 28mpg city and 35mpg highway in comparable models, outpacing the CLS’s 22/30mpg figures. Real-world tests confirm BMW’s edge in mixed driving.

Insurance and maintenance may tilt toward BMW due to its reputation for reliability, though Mercedes offers longer warranties in some markets. Resale values hold strong for both badges.

Technology and Safety Features

Mercedes leads in lavish tech: larger infotainment screens, premium audio (13 speakers), and advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise. Leather seats and LED lamps are standard luxuries.

BMW matches with standard heated seats, keyless entry, and a 12-speaker system. Safety suites are comprehensive—automatic braking, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring—often standard where Mercedes charges extra (£350-£930).

Infotainment: Both support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and Bluetooth, but BMW’s iDrive feels more intuitive.

Driving Experience: Handling and Ride Quality

On winding roads, the BMW’s rear-drive balance and lighter curb weight deliver engaging dynamics. The eight-speed shifts seamlessly, and performance modes transform it from cruiser to corner-carver.

Mercedes prioritizes composure with 4MATIC grip, but its heft dulls agility. The ride is plush for highways, though less playful than BMW.

Pricing and Value for Money

Entry prices position Mercedes as the pricier option, emphasizing exclusivity. BMW offers more standard kit, potentially better long-term value through efficiency and space.

For families, BMW wins; for style-focused drivers, CLS appeals.

Pros and Cons Summary

• Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake Pros: Stunning design, luxurious interior, smooth power delivery.
• Cons: Limited rear space, optional extras, thirstier engine.
• BMW 5 Series Touring Pros: Spacious, versatile boot, superior handling, better efficiency, more kit.
• Cons: Less glamorous cabin plastics.

Who Should Buy Which?

Choose Mercedes if coupe aesthetics and premium touches matter most. Opt for BMW for practicality, fun driving, and value. Both excel, but BMW edges all-rounder status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which has more boot space?

BMW 5 Series Touring offers up to 1,670 litres vs CLS’s tapered hold.

Is the BMW more fuel-efficient?

Yes, 28/35mpg vs 22/30mpg.

Which handles better?

BMW’s lighter weight and RWD setup provide sharper dynamics.

Standard features comparison?

BMW includes more like heated seats; Mercedes charges extras.

Suitable for families?

BMW’s space makes it family favorite.