Hey guys.
I am deciding between a CLS and a BMW 5 Series and I was wondering the difference in rear seat legroom. From the website data, there seems to be only 1 inch difference between the two car. But I hear these complaints on BMW forum about how legroom is so much less in CLS. I am about 5'10'' and I was wondering if anyone can comment on CLS legroom compared to BMW 5 series. (A picture would be nice too)
Also, if anyone has pictures of CLS and 5 Series together for a comparison sake, I would appreciate that too.
The legroom in the CLS is cramping. I sat in one at an auto show and I'm pretty short. Although I would never suggest a BMW, in this case go for it. And in case you haven't noticed, the CLS is placdd in the Coupe/Convertible Forum. It's a four-door coupe according to MB.
Hey guys.
I am deciding between a CLS and a BMW 5 Series and I was wondering the difference in rear seat legroom. From the website data, there seems to be only 1 inch difference between the two car. But I hear these complaints on BMW forum about how legroom is so much less in CLS. I am about 5'10'' and I was wondering if anyone can comment on CLS legroom compared to BMW 5 series. (A picture would be nice too)
Also, if anyone has pictures of CLS and 5 Series together for a comparison sake, I would appreciate that too.
Thanks alot!
Truthfully - since you are thinking about spending this kind of money on a car - why not go to both dealerships and sit in both and decide for yourself. You have to also remmeber - you are the driver and wont be in the back seat, so be sure and take your family with you so they can sit in the back and offer you their thoughts and opinions - It sounds as if this is the deciding factor (rear legroom) so why not see for urself instead. Let us know though :)
You shouldn't worry about the leg-room as much as the head-room. It take some effort to get in the back seat because of the sharp rake of the roof. Once you get in, it's quite comfortable, if you're under 5'10" or so. I'm 6'1" and my hair grazes the headliner due to the steep angle of the roof. Leg room doesn't feel that much different than a 5 series. Which means it's tight.
The front space is excellent. Head room might be an issue here also, for taller people, but overall it's very comfortable. The low profile design makes the car look good, through the sacrifice of head room.
Keep in mind that there's a "center console" between the rear seats, so no 5th passanger.
I bought this car because my kids are 10 & 12(still small enough not to complain about space) and I have an SUV for other activities. My wife has an SLK if we need to go "top-less".
Bottom line: If you have a family; kids, dogs, etc., don't get this car as a primary transportation. If it's for you and one other, or have other cars to make-up for the lack of rear space, then GET IT. I love this car! I think it's the best looking car out there. You can't say that about the 5 series!
One thing... Wait a few month before you buy it. The 7-speed tranny is not very reliable. My dealer put a new tranny last week and they want to change this one again. MB is sending them an updated tranny. So, I would suggest getting one that has a build date of about November or later. It's not just the CLS, but all 7-speed equiped cars.
Vehicle: CLS55 AMG 06' Black Opal exterior (metallic dark blue ;-), Grey/suede int, Dynamic seats, yada yada
Location: Southern California
Posts: 8
RE: MB CLS and BMW 5 series rear seat legroom
I don't quite understand the comparison between the BMW 5 series and the CLS - I looked at BMW 7 series and even a Austin Martin DB9 then choose the CLS 500. I think the CLS is in a higher class.
The leg room in the back is less cramped than other cars. Most european cars have small leg room anyhow.
What really steered me away from BMW was my nephew who was an avid Mercedes owner and bought a BMW7 series 1 year ago. The car has had a few problems, but he said the service is absolutely horrible. You need an appoinment at least 2 weeks in advance. The car slipped out of gear at the gas station - had it towed to the nearest dealer - who could not get him a decent loaner and had no idea when the car would be done.
His comparative experience with Mercedes was much better.
I've owed my CLS 500 for 2 months and have had no one complain about the rear seat room. They all want a ride in the car no matter where they sit. I like the fact it does not have a 3rd center seat. It has a console. I've alreay politely refused a baby seat in the back...;-)
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