Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 vs BMW 520i — full comparison

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250

Sedan · Diesel · FWD

vs

BMW 520i

Sedan · Gasoline · FWD

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250

Car A

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250

The Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 blends an efficient diesel (5.5 combined consumption) with relaxed performance for premium road trips. A 520 L trunk and five seats aid family use, but FWD and a premium price won’t suit everyone.

5 seatsSedanDiesel5-star safety5.5 L/100km204 hp

BMW 520i

Car B

BMW 520i

The BMW 520i is an efficient five-seat saloon that suits road trips and growing families. Its balanced performance and 530 L boot make it good value in its segment.

5 seatsSedanGasoline5-star safety

Why compared cross branddifferent powertrainsame body typesame seats

Usage fit

Family 54 / 63

City 35 / 37

Budget / value 34 / 54

Road trip 63 / 64

Performance 34 / 33

Cargo 29 / 29

Practical 35 / 46

Premium 60 / 57

Winter 30 / 30

Scores out of 100. Blue = Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 · Orange = BMW 520i

Specs side-by-side

Spec Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 BMW 520i

Values are representative — confirm for your market and trim.

Pros & cons

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250

Low combined consumption (5.5) makes long journeys efficient for its class
Strong safety standing in its segment
520 L trunk and five seats support family road trips
Torquey diesel (500 Nm) and 7.5 s 0–100 km/h enable confident overtakes
FWD may limit traction in winter conditions
Not aimed at cargo‑heavy use despite a 520 L boot
Priced as a premium model (around 68,000)
Performance prioritizes smooth cruising over outright speed

BMW 520i

Efficient for its class at 6 L/100 km, ideal for long-distance driving
530 L trunk handles family luggage for holidays and weekends
Adequate pace for highways (184 hp, 0–100 km/h in 7.9 s, 235 km/h top speed)
At about 55,000, it represents good value in its segment
Saloon body limits loading flexibility for bulky items despite the volume
Front-wheel drive may not suit buyers seeking AWD confidence for harsh winters
Moderate acceleration; not for those prioritizing punchy performance
Price may exceed tighter family-sedan budgets

Verdict

Pick Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 if…

Best fuel economy

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 uses 5.5 L/100km vs 6.0 — a meaningful saving if you cover high mileage.

Pick BMW 520i if…

Performance & capability

BMW 520i is the choice if you want more power, speed, or all-weather capability.

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