The executive style Mercedes Benz CLS Class of automobiles was made available for sale and purchase in the United States 2006, one year after they were available at the elite dealerships in Europe. As of 2007 in the United States, this first generation of mid sized, four door Mercedes Benz CLS Class automobiles, the W219, is also the current generation of CLS class vehicles. Two model versions of CLS class automobiles were made available in 2005 in the United States, the CLS 500 and the CLS 55 AMG, although there were several additional models available for sale and purchase in Europe.

The curvaceously direct and alluringly inviting 2006 Mercedes Benz CLS 500 offered extraordinary power and impeccable performance within its brilliantly lavish confines and simultaneously wrapped its passengers in true luxury. A 5.0 liter V8 engine powered the CLS500 smoothly and confidently down the road. The lack of a more user friendly control panel was quickly accepted as part of an otherwise excellently packaged and engineered mid size luxury automobile that accommodated the needs of those drivers with distinctive taste and the need for a four door sedan utility with the agility and style of a coupe

The CLS 55 AMG was initially produced in limited volume and was essentially a high performance version of the CLS500. The Mercedes Benz CLS 55 AMG was equipped with a 5.5 liter supercharged V8 engine, capable of generating 469 horsepower. At the time of its introduction, the CLS 55 AMG became the fastest Mercedes Benz sedan, reaching 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The self leveling air suspension system with automated electronic calibration capabilities and upgraded tires enhanced the ride and performance at high speeds and around corners. The CLS55 AMG is also differentiated from the CLS500 by an extravagant leather interior accented by high gloss wood trim. In addition to upgrading several various standard features of the CLS500, the CLS55 AMG a Mercedes AMG body style featuring decreased ground clearance; chrome plated tailpipes, side skirts and an integrated rear spoiler.

For the 2007 model year, the still superior Mercedes Benz CLS Class of vehicles received enhanced audio systems and new model names to accommodate their even more powerful motors. The CLS500 has been rebadged as the CLS550, with the numeric change indicating the new 5.5 liter, 382 horsepower engine. The CLS55 AMG has been rebadged as the CLS 63 AMG and delivers more 38 additional horsepower than its 2005 version. Both the CLS550 and the CLS63 deliver beyond expectations and excel in the mid size luxury car market.